Clower

The surname Clower has its roots in England, originating in the late 13th or early 14th century. It is believed to be derived from the Old English word "claver," which means clover, a type of plant. This suggests that the name may have initially been given to someone who lived near a clover field or worked with clover in some capacity.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Clower can be found in the Subsidy Rolls of Sussex, dating back to 1296. This document lists a Robert Clower among the residents of the county. Additionally, the Hundred Rolls of 1273 mention a William Clovere, which is likely an earlier spelling variation of the same surname.

In the 15th century, the Clower surname appeared in various historical records across different parts of England. For instance, the Patent Rolls of 1443 mention a John Clower from Hertfordshire, while the Feet of Fines for Essex in 1488 refers to a John Clower from that county.

One notable individual with the Clower surname was Henry Clower, who lived in the late 16th century. Born around 1560, he was a prominent merchant and landowner in Somerset. Records show that he acquired significant wealth and owned properties in various parts of the county.

Another historical figure bearing this surname was William Clower, born in 1634 in Gloucestershire. He was a renowned scholar and educator who served as the headmaster of the prestigious King's School in Worcester from 1668 until his death in 1712.

In the 18th century, a man named John Clower (1712-1784) gained recognition as a skilled clockmaker and watchmaker in London. His timepieces were highly sought after by the wealthy and influential members of society during that era.

The 19th century saw the emergence of Francis Clower (1810-1892), a prominent architect from Oxfordshire. He was responsible for designing several notable buildings, including churches and country estates, throughout the English countryside.

Finally, one cannot overlook the contributions of Charles Clower (1865-1937), a renowned botanist and horticulturist from Warwickshire. He dedicated his life to the study and cultivation of various plant species, publishing several influential works on the subject.

While the Clower surname has its roots in England, it has since spread to other parts of the world, carried by those who emigrated from the British Isles over the centuries. However, the earliest and most significant historical references to this name can be found within the boundaries of England, where it originated and flourished.