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Bowers

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Search records for the surname Bowers across MyHeritage's database of 34 billion historical records

Search records for the surname Bowers across MyHeritage's database of 34 billion historical records
Origin and meaning of the Bowers last nameOrigin and meaning of the Bowers last name

Origin and meaning of the Bowers last name

The surname Bowers has its historical roots in England, deriving from the Middle English word bower, which refers to a dwelling or a shelter, often associated with a rustic or pastoral setting. The name likely originated as a topographic surname for someone who lived near a bower or a person who worked in a garden or orchard. The earliest records of the surname date back to the 13th century, with variations appearing in different regions. Over time, the name became associated with various occupations, particularly in agriculture and horticulture, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of medieval England. The meaning of Bowers can also be linked to the idea of a bower as a place of beauty and tranquility, suggesting that those who bore the name may have been seen as caretakers of such spaces. Culturally, the surname Bowers has seen variations in spelling and pronunciation across different regions, particularly in the United States, where it may have been altered through immigration and anglicization. Variants such as Bower or Bowers can be found, with some families adopting different forms based on regional dialects or personal preference. The surname has spread geographically through migration, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, as individuals and families sought new opportunities in America and other parts of the world. In some regions, the name may carry specific local significance, often tied to historical land ownership or notable figures in the community. Prominent figures associated with the surname Bowers include individuals in various fields, such as politics, arts, and sciences. For instance, notable Bowers have made contributions to local governance and community development, enhancing the surname's recognition within certain areas. The Bowers family has also been linked to significant historical events, such as land grants and settlements in the American frontier, which further solidified their presence in the cultural narrative of the regions they inhabited. Overall, the surname Bowers reflects a rich tapestry of historical significance, cultural evolution, and community impact, marking its bearers as integral parts of the social fabric in which they lived.
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Where is the Bowers family from?

Trace the Bowers family's migration over time through census records. The Bowers surname appears in censuses from the following countries: USA, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia between 1830 and 1950. The majority of Bowers families were found in census records from USA in 1930.
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What types of historical records can you find for the Bowers family?

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family history journey

What did the Bowers family do for a living?

Top Male Occupations in 1910
Laborer
31%
Clerk
20%
Machinist
10%
Carpenter
10%
Top Female Occupations in 1910
Clerk
37%
Stenographer
17%
Teacher
10%
Bookkeeper
6%
The top reported professions for Bowers men and women from the United States in 1910 were laborer and clerk. 31% of men with the last name Bowers worked as laborers and 37% of women with the last name Bowers worked as a clerk.
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