Gowell

The surname Gowell is believed to have originated in England, dating back to the 13th century. It is thought to be a habitational name derived from the Old English words 'gōd' meaning good and 'well' meaning a spring or stream, suggesting it may have referred to someone who lived near a good well or spring.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Subsidy Rolls of Sussex from 1296, which mentions a John Godewell. This suggests the name was already established in the southern English county of Sussex by the late 13th century.

In the 14th century, the name appears in various records with slight spelling variations such as Godwell, Godewell, and Goodwell. For example, a Robert Godwell is mentioned in the Subsidy Rolls of Gloucestershire in 1327, while a Thomas Godewell is recorded in the Pipe Rolls of Somerset in 1379.

During the 16th century, the spelling of the name seems to have settled on the form Gowell. One notable bearer of the name from this period was John Gowell, a merchant and alderman of the city of Bristol, who was mentioned in records from the 1570s.

In the 17th century, the Gowell family was well-established in several counties in southern England, particularly in Wiltshire and Hampshire. A notable figure was Thomas Gowell (1608-1677), a clergyman who served as the Rector of Shalbourne in Wiltshire.

Another prominent individual was Sir Thomas Gowell (1638-1721), a baronet and Member of Parliament for Andover in Hampshire. He was born in Andover and was knighted in 1685 by King James II.

Moving into the 18th century, the name continued to be found primarily in southern England, with some bearers also residing in London. One example is John Gowell (1709-1789), a London merchant who was involved in the East India trade.

In the 19th century, the Gowell name appears to have spread more widely across England, with individuals recorded in various counties. One notable figure was Charles Gowell (1808-1885), a prominent architect from Berkshire who was responsible for designing several churches and other buildings in the region.

Throughout its history, the surname Gowell has maintained its connection to its possible roots as a habitational name, referring to someone who lived near a particularly good well or spring. While the name may not be among the most common surnames, it has been borne by individuals from various walks of life, from clergymen and merchants to architects and members of parliament.