Rowe

The name Rowe is an English name derived from the Old English word "row," which means a row or line of houses or buildings. It is believed to have originated as a surname that referred to a person who lived on a particular street or row of houses.

In the early Middle Ages, around the 11th and 12th centuries, the name Rowe began to be used as a given name, particularly in England. It was often bestowed upon children whose families lived on a street or row of houses, as a way to identify their place of residence.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Rowe as a first name can be found in the Domesday Book, a survey of land and property in England commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1086. The Domesday Book mentions several individuals with the name Rowe, indicating that the name was already in use during that time period.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Rowe. One of the most famous was Nicholas Rowe (1674-1718), an English poet, dramatist, and playwright who is best known for his translations of Lucan's Pharsalia and his adaptations of Shakespeare's plays.

Another notable Rowe was Thomas Rowe (1657-1705), an English nonconformist minister and religious writer. He was a prominent figure in the dissenting Presbyterian movement and wrote several influential works on theology and religious philosophy.

In the 18th century, there was Elizabeth Rowe (1674-1737), an English poet and devotional writer who was highly regarded for her moral and religious works. Her collection of poetry, "Friendship in Death," was particularly popular and went through numerous editions.

In the 19th century, John Rowe Parker (1799-1869) was an English architect and civil engineer who was responsible for designing several notable buildings in London, including the Lyceum Theatre and the Fishmongers' Hall.

More recently, in the 20th century, Rowe Stevens (1908-1983) was an American actress and singer who appeared in several Broadway musicals and Hollywood films, including the 1954 movie "White Christmas."

While these are just a few examples, the name Rowe has a rich history and has been borne by individuals from various walks of life throughout the centuries.