The Howell Family History

What Does the Howell Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Howell has its roots in Wales, deriving from the personal name Hywel, which translates to ‘eminent.’ This name has held considerable popularity since the Middle Ages, particularly in recognition of the notable Welsh king of the 10th century, renowned for his contributions to law. In its English context, the name also denotes a location in Lincolnshire, derived from the Old English term hugol, meaning ‘mound’ or ‘hillock.’ Additionally, the word hune, signifying ‘hoarhound,’ is associated with the name. Variations of Howell include Hoel, Howel, and Hugh. The Howell surname can be found across various English counties, notably in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Norfolk, Somerset, and Sussex, with the largest concentration located in Glamorgan, Wales. In Scotland, numerous Howell families reside in Lanarkshire. In the United States, the Howell surname is most prevalent in states such as New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Alabama, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Texas, California, and Georgia. During the 1880s, nearly half of those bearing the Howell surname were engaged in agriculture. Prominent individuals with the Howell surname include William Roe Howell, a photographer active in 1870s New York City; Mark Howell, an American musician; Ken Howell, a professional baseball player; Hannah Howell, a well-known romance novelist; C. Thomas Howell, an actor; Dixie Howell, a professional baseball pitcher; Thomas B. Howell, an English lawyer and author known for his work on Howell's State Trials in the early 19th century; and Abner Howell, who served as a captain during the American Revolutionary War.