How common is the Cowan surname?

There are approximately 45,000 people with the surname Cowan in the United States.

Are there Cowan soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 1,173 soldiers with the Cowan surname appear in Civil War records.

Cowan

Q: What does the surname Cowan mean?

The surname Cowan means "Derived from the Gaelic word for hollow or valley, referring to someone living in such a location.". It is of Scottish origin.

Topographic

Meaning

Derived from the Gaelic word for hollow or valley, referring to someone living in such a location.

Etymology

The name comes from Scottish Gaelic 'comhann' meaning hollow or valley, combined with the locational suffix. It may also relate to the occupation of cowherd in some instances.

About the Cowan Surname

A Scottish surname with strong topographic roots referring to geographical features in the Highlands. The name has been documented for nearly 800 years in Scottish records.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 45,000 bearers in the United States #549 most common surname

Rare Common

Common in Scotland and throughout the United Kingdom, with significant populations in North America and Australia.

Cowan Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Cowan Surname

Edgar Cowan

1815–1885 Hon. Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

Origin: Scottish
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: 13th century
Estimated Bearers: 45,000

War Records

1,173 soldiers with the Cowan surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →