Brownell Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Brownell come from? What does the surname Brownell mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Brownell and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Brownell Origin: What does the last name Brownell mean?
The surname Brownell originated in England around the early 15th century. It has remained closely associated with England and Wales from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Over time, Brownell family records have been found in the United States, indicating a global spread of the surname. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Brownell surname grew significantly in Wales, the United States, and other countries, making it a prominent surname worldwide.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Brownell surname in England and Wales since the 15th century. The surname has spread globally over the centuries, with significant records found in Wales, the United States, and various other countries. Today, the Brownell surname continues to be prominent in Wales, the United States, and is present in many countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and global reach.
Brownell Last Name History: Where did the last name Brownell come from?
Origin of Brownell Surname: Where does the last name Brownell originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Brownell first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Brownell spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Brownell: What does the Brownell surname history look like in the early days?
The Brownell surname remained closely associated with England and Wales from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Brownell family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Brownell surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Brownell surname grew significantly in Wales, the United States, and other countries. The Brownell surname remains prominent in Wales, the United States, and appears in many countries worldwide.
Explore Brownell last name heritage and Brownell surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Brownell Surame?
Raymond Brownell
Air Commodore Raymond James Brownell (May 17, 1894 – April 12, 1974) was a senior officer in the Royal Australian Air Force and a First World War flying ace. Born in Hobart, Tasmania, Brownell served during the Gallipoli Campaign before transferring to the Western Front. He was awarded the Military Medal for his actions during the Battle of Pozières and went on to shoot down 12 aircraft by the end of the war. Brownell continued his military career, rising to the rank of group captain by the beginning of the Second World War. After retiring from the Air Force, he pursued a career in stockbroking. Brownell's autobiography, "From Khaki to Blue," was published posthumously.
Frederick Brownell
Frederick Gordon Brownell (8 Mar 1940 – 10 May 2019) was a South African herald, vexillologist, and genealogist known for designing the flags of South Africa and Namibia. He was awarded for his role in creating the current South African flag, symbolizing unity among diverse cultures. Brownell published numerous works on heraldry and flags and received prestigious awards for his contributions. He passed away in 2019 after a career dedicated to promoting national identity through his iconic flag designs.
Perez v. Brownell
Clemente Martinez Perez (March 17, 1909 - ) was a central figure in the landmark Supreme Court case Perez v. Brownell (1958). Born in El Paso, Texas, he faced the revocation of his U.S. citizenship for voting in a foreign election and residing in Mexico. The case affirmed Congress's power to withdraw citizenship based on certain actions, a decision later overturned in Afroyim v. Rusk (1967). Perez's legal battle shaped the interpretation of the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause, highlighting the delicate balance between individual rights and national security.
Francis E. Brownell
Francis Edwin Brownell (July 18, 1840 – March 15, 1894) was a Union Army soldier in the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor for killing the murderer of Col. Ellsworth, making it the first Civil War deed to earn the prestigious award. Brownell's heroic actions and gallantry in Alexandria, Virginia, showcased his bravery and dedication to his country. After the war, he continued to serve his nation and was a respected member of military organizations. Brownell's legacy lives on as a symbol of courage and sacrifice during a pivotal time in American history.
Thomas Church Brownell
Thomas Church Brownell (October 19, 1779 – January 13, 1865) was the founder of Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, and served as the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. He was a key figure in expanding the Episcopal Church's influence in the southern United States during the 1830s. Brownell also played a role in the American Colonization Society, advocating for the relocation of free Black Americans to Liberia. His legacy is honored with a bronze statue at Trinity College, showcasing his contributions to education and religious missions.
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