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Hywel Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Hywel Surname

The Hywel surname, pronounced [Ààh…ôu…õl] in Welsh, has its origins deeply embedded in Welsh history and culture. Historically, Hywel was a masculine given name, often anglicised as Howel or Howell. It first appeared in historical records during the early medieval period, marking the Hywel family tree's roots in Wales. This surname is a testament to the rich tapestry of Welsh noble and royal lineage, including notable figures such as Hywel the Great and Hywel Dda, who played significant roles in Welsh history.

Over the centuries, the Hywel surname evolved and spread across Wales, with notable mentions in various regions during the 12th and 13th centuries. This expansion reflects the diversification of the Hywel family tree as different branches settled in distinct communities. By the 17th century, the surname had crossed Welsh borders, with individuals establishing roots in England and other parts of Europe. This movement underscores the Hywel family's adaptability and their ability to maintain their cultural identity in new environments.

The YourRoots dataset provides a compelling narrative of the Hywel surname's journey. It confirms that the Hywel surname has been a consistent presence in Welsh records from the early centuries. The dataset highlights the family's resilience and the significant role they played in their communities. The spread of the Hywel surname in the 19th century to regions like North America and Australia further enriches the story, illustrating a global diaspora that maintains connections to its Welsh origins.

For those interested in Hywel genealogy or tracing the Hywel family tree, YourRoots offers a valuable repository of records that can illuminate the family's historical journey. By accessing these Hywel records, researchers can piece together a narrative that spans continents and centuries, offering insights into the enduring legacy of the Hywel name.

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Origin of the Hywel Family: Where does the Hywel surname come from?

The Hywel surname has its roots in Wales, where it first emerged in historical records during a significant period in the early medieval era. This connection to Wales marks the beginning of the Hywel family tree, suggesting a lineage that is deeply interwoven with the cultural and historical fabric of the region. The early mentions of the surname indicate a strong presence in Welsh society, laying the foundation for generations to come.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Hywel

As the centuries progressed, families bearing the Hywel surname began to establish themselves prominently within Wales. Throughout the early centuries, particularly in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Hywel name can be traced to various regions within Wales, highlighting the growth of distinct family branches. These branches contributed to the diversification of the family tree, as they settled in different communities and adapted to their local environments.

During subsequent centuries, the Hywel family continued to evolve and expand, with lines spreading further across Wales. The consistent presence of the surname in records from the 14th to the 16th centuries illustrates the family's resilience and ability to maintain their identity despite changing times. This growth not only reflects the family's adaptation but also their role in the community, as they built connections and networks that would support future generations.

Tracing the Hywel Family Tree Through the Centuries

The expansion of the Hywel surname into broader regions became more distinct in later centuries, as families began to migrate beyond Wales. By the 17th century, individuals with the Hywel surname were not only prominent in Wales but had also begun to appear in countries such as England and, to a lesser extent, in other parts of Europe. This movement illustrates the adaptability of the Hywel family, as they navigated new environments while preserving their lineage.

In the following centuries, particularly the 19th century, the Hywel name continued to spread, reaching areas as far as North America and Australia. The global diaspora of the Hywel surname showcases a rich tapestry of family histories, with variations and adaptations occurring as family members settled in diverse cultural landscapes. Each branch of the Hywel family tree contributes to a larger narrative, connecting individuals across generations and geographies.

Where to Find Hywel Genealogy Records Today

In modern times, the Hywel surname can be found in various regions across the globe, reflecting the continued presence and evolution of this family lineage. As families with the Hywel name have settled in different countries, particularly in the 20th and 21st centuries, the opportunities for genealogical exploration have expanded significantly. Readers are encouraged to delve into the YourRoots database to uncover their own

Famous People with Hywel (and Their Family Tree)

Dyddgu Hywel

Dyddgu Hywel

Dyddgu Hywel, born on March 10, 1989, is a prominent Welsh rugby union player known for her role as fullback with the Gloucester-Hartpury and the Wales women's national rugby union team. She made her international debut at the 2013 Women's Six Nations Championship against Ireland and has been a key player, notably scoring tries against Scotland and France in subsequent tournaments. Beyond her rugby career, Hywel is a respected educator, serving as a lecturer for the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Her academic background includes a first-class honors degree in Design and Technology Secondary Education from Bangor University.

Hywel Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Hywel" originates from a Welsh masculine given name, which can be anglicized as Howel or Howell. It is associated with notable historical figures such as Hywel the Great, a noble and king in the Arthurian legend, and Hywel Dda, a 10th-century king known for his legal reforms in Wales.

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Where to Find Genealogy Records for Hywel

We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Hywel family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Hywel surname to learn more.

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