What is the origin of the last name Rowland?
Countries of origin for the last name Rowland
The last name Rowland is of English origin. It is a variant spelling of the surname Roland, which is derived from the given name Roland. The given name Roland itself is of Germanic origin and is composed of the elements “hrod” meaning “fame” and “land” meaning “land” or “territory.” Therefore, the surname Rowland can be interpreted as “famous land” or “territory of fame.”
The surname Rowland is not extremely common, but it has been in use for quite some time. It can be found in various records and documents from different periods of history. For example, in the 16th century, there are records of individuals with the surname Rowland residing in different counties of England, such as Lancashire and Yorkshire.
In the United States, the surname Rowland is most prevalent in the southern states, particularly in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. Many individuals with the last name Rowland can trace their ancestry back to early settlers in these regions.
Historically, the surname Rowland has been associated with various occupations. For instance, in medieval England, there were individuals with the surname Rowland who were known as “handrowland” or “handroller.” These individuals were responsible for rolling fabric by hand to prepare it for dyeing or weaving. This occupation was particularly important in the textile industry during that time.
The surname Rowland has also been associated with notable individuals throughout history. For example, there have been several well-known Rowlands, such as John Rowland, who was a pioneering Welsh photographer in the 19th century, and Esther Jane Rowland, an American suffragist who played a significant role in the women’s rights movement.
In conclusion, the last name Rowland is of English origin and is derived from the given name Roland. Its meaning can be interpreted as “famous land” or “territory of fame.” The surname has a historical presence in England and has been passed down through generations to individuals in the United States, especially in the southern states. Additionally, the surname Rowland has been associated with various occupations and notable individuals throughout history. Despite its somewhat lesser prevalence, the surname Rowland continues to carry its significance and connections to both the past and the present.
Interesting facts about the last name Rowland
- The surname Rowland is derived from the Old Germanic personal name “Hrodland,” which means “famous land.”
- Rowland is a relatively common surname, especially in English-speaking countries.
- The name Rowland can be found in various forms, including Rowlands, Roland, and Rohland.
- The surname Rowland has English and Welsh origins.
- In Wales, Rowland is a patronymic surname, meaning it originated from a male ancestor’s first name.
- The Rowland surname is more prevalent in the United States, particularly in the southern states.
- Notable individuals with the surname Rowland include American singer-songwriter Kelly Rowland and British historian Sir Archibald Rowland.
- The Rowland surname can also be found in other countries, such as Australia, Canada, and South Africa.
- Over time, various individuals with the surname Rowland have achieved distinction in fields such as politics, sports, and entertainment.
- Research suggests that the surname Rowland may have Norman origins, as some individuals bearing the name arrived in England during the Norman Conquest of 1066.
Name Rank
#993
There are around 35121 people with the last name Rowland in the US