Scowden Surname

Surname Origin

The surname Scowden is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name Scirda and the word denu, meaning valley. So, Scowden originally referred to someone who lived in or near a valley owned by a person named Scirda.

Early Bearers of the Name

The earliest records of the Scowden surname date back to the 13th century in England. One of the early bearers of the name was Robert Scowden, who was recorded in the Subsidy Rolls of Sussex in 1296. Another early record is that of William Scowden, who was documented in the Yorkshire Poll Tax Rolls in 1379.

Migration

The Scowden surname eventually made its way to the United States and Switzerland. In the US, it is most commonly found in the state of California, with 580 incidences reported. In Switzerland, however, the surname is much rarer, with only 2 incidences recorded.

Notable Individuals

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the surname Scowden. One such person is John Scowden, an American Revolutionary War veteran who fought for independence from British rule. Another notable figure is Mary Scowden, a prominent suffragette who fought for women's rights in the early 20th century.

Variations of the Surname

Like many surnames, Scowden has undergone variations in spelling over the years. Some common variations include Scouden, Scowdon, and Skowden. These variations often occurred due to factors such as illiteracy or regional dialects.

Modern-day Distribution

Today, the Scowden surname remains relatively uncommon, with the majority of individuals bearing the name residing in the United States. The largest concentration of Scowdens can be found in California, followed by Texas and Florida. In Switzerland, the surname is extremely rare, with only a handful of individuals carrying the name.

Meaning of the Name

While the exact meaning of the Scowden surname may have been lost to time, it is believed to refer to a person who lived in or near a valley. The name may also have connotations of strength and resilience, as valleys are often seen as symbols of perseverance and endurance.

Famous Scowdens

Despite its relative obscurity, the Scowden surname has produced a few individuals who have achieved fame or recognition in their respective fields. One such individual is Sarah Scowden, a renowned scientist who made significant contributions to the field of genetics. Another notable Scowden is Michael Scowden, a successful entrepreneur who built a thriving business empire from the ground up.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Scowden has a rich history and a diverse range of variations. While it may not be as common as some other surnames, it has produced a few notable individuals who have left their mark on the world. Whether in the United States or Switzerland, the Scowden surname continues to endure and inspire future generations.

The surname Scowden in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same takes place in the case of Scowden, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that may be found in most of the countries associated with globe. Just as there are nations in which certainly the thickness of men and women with all the surname Scowden is higher than in other countries.

The map of this Scowden surname

1. United States (580)
2. Switzerland (2)