Last Name Howland

The last name Howland has an English origin. It is a habitational surname derived from the Old Norse personal name "Hólmundr," meaning "island protection," combined with the Old English word "land." This suggests that the name was originally used to identify someone who lived near or owned a piece of land by or on an island. Over time, variants of the name have emerged, including Holand, Hollander, and Holman. The name Howland can be found in various English-speaking countries, such as England, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Howland

The meaning and origin of the last name Howland

The surname Howland is of English origin and holds multiple possible meanings. One interpretation suggests that it is a locational surname derived from the Old English words "hugol" meaning "hill," and "land" meaning "land," thus denoting someone who lived on or near a hill or elevated piece of land. Alternatively, it could also be an occupational name derived from the Middle English word "holand," which refers to a skilled land dweller or tenant. Additionally, the surname could have originated from a personal name, derived from the Old Norse name "Hugleikr," meaning "vigorous warrior" or "famous battle." Overall, the surname Howland has various potential origins and meanings rooted in English geography, occupation, and personal names.

Geographical distribution of the last name Howland

The last name Howland has a relatively widespread geographical distribution. It is primarily found in English-speaking countries, especially in the United States and England. In the United States, the name is most commonly found in New England states such as Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, where it traces its roots back to Pilgrim settlers who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620. Additionally, the name can be found scattered throughout other regions of the United States, including the Midwest and West Coast. In England, the name is concentrated in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Lincolnshire, indicating its English origins. Furthermore, smaller clusters of individuals with the last name Howland can be found in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, which can be attributed to migration patterns and historical connections between these countries and England. Overall, while the last name Howland is most prominent in the United States and England, it can also be found in various English-speaking countries around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Howland

The last name Howland has several variations and spellings that have evolved over time. Some different spellings include Holland, Hoeland, Holand, Halland, Hollend, and Howelland. These variations often occurred due to dialectical differences, handwriting errors, or pronunciation discrepancies. Additionally, the name might have been subject to phonetic changes when passed down through generations or due to migration to different regions or countries. These variations of Howland can be found in different parts of the world, such as England, Scotland, Ireland, and the United States. It is important to note that these variations are not limited to a specific timeframe but have been used interchangeably throughout history. Therefore, when researching family history or tracing genealogy, it is crucial to be aware of the various spellings and adaptations of the Howland surname to ensure accurate results.

Famous people with the last name Howland

One famous individual with the last name Howland is Louisa Lane Drew Howland. She was an English-born actress and theatre manager who played a significant role in shaping American theater history. Louisa was the matriarch of the renowned Barrymore acting dynasty, as she was the mother of actors John, Ethel, and Lionel Barrymore. Born in 1820, she enjoyed a successful career on stage in both England and the United States. Louisa Lane Drew Howland became the manager of Arch Street Theatre in Philadelphia, where she presented a wide variety of plays and nurtured the talents of her children, who would go on to become some of the greatest stage and screen actors of their time. She is considered an influential figure in American theatrical history for her contributions to the Barrymore legacy and her dedication to nurturing emerging talent.

Genealogical research on the last name Howland

The genealogical research on the last name Howland traces its origins back to England. The earliest documented records of the Howland family date back to the 16th century in Norfolk and Essex counties. It is believed that the name Howland originates from the Old English word "hōland" meaning "cultivated land on the hill." The family gained prominence in the 17th century when John Howland sailed on the Mayflower in 1620 and became one of the founding members of the Plymouth Colony. His descendants played influential roles in various fields, including politics, literature, and business. Descendants of John Howland have been extensively documented, with notable individuals such as Arthur Howland, a successful businessman, and poet Henry Howland Crapo. The family's lineage has continued to thrive in America, branching out across different states and regions, emphasizing the lasting impact and rich history of the Howland name.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Howland"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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