Downes Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Downes come from? What does the surname Downes mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Downes and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Downes Origin: What does the last name Downes mean?
The surname Downes, of Irish and English origin, is derived from the Irish name Ó Dubháin. It first appeared in records from England in the early 16th century. The name remained closely associated with England up to the 18th century, but YourRoots data shows Downes family records in countries like Ireland, the United States, Australia, and Canada, indicating a global spread over the centuries.
By the 20th century, the Downes surname had significantly grown in records in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. It remains prominent in these regions and is also found in countries like South Africa, Jamaica, and Barbados. The surname Downes reflects a rich history and global presence, showcasing its evolution and adaptation across different regions and cultures over time.
Downes Last Name History: Where did the last name Downes come from?
Origin of Downes Surname: Where does the last name Downes originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Downes first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Downes spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Downes: What does the Downes surname history look like in the early days?
The Downes surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Downes family records in countries like Ireland, United States, Australia, and Canada, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Downes surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Downes surname grew significantly in United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. The Downes surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including South Africa, Jamaica, and Barbados.
Explore Downes last name heritage and Downes surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Downes Surame?
Robin Atkin Downes
Robin Atkin Downes is an English actor known for his work in animation and video games. He has voiced characters in popular franchises such as Gears of War, Metal Gear, Kingdom Hearts, and Halo. Downes has also appeared in live-action television roles in shows like Angel, Babylon 5, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He maintains a personal YouTube channel showcasing behind-the-scenes footage of his work and voiced Cham Syndulla in Star Wars: The Bad Batch. Downes is married to American actress Michael Ann Young and they have a daughter named Natasha.
Disappearance of Charlene Downes
Charlene Elizabeth Caroline Downes (Mar 25, 1989 – ) was a British teenager who disappeared on November 1, 2003, from Blackpool, England, at the age of 14. Known for the tragic circumstances surrounding her case, Charlene's disappearance shed light on endemic child sexual abuse in her town. Despite multiple trials and arrests, her case remains unsolved, with a reward still offered for information leading to the conviction of her killer(s) or the recovery of her body. Her story underscores the importance of addressing issues of child exploitation and the need for justice in such cases.
Geoff Downes
Geoffrey Downes (born 25 Aug 1952) is an English keyboardist known for his work in the new wave group the Buggles, progressive rock band Yes, and supergroup Asia. He gained fame with hits like "Video Killed the Radio Star" and "Heat of the Moment" and has been a key figure in the music industry since the 1970s. Downes holds a Guinness World Record for playing with 28 keyboards on stage and continues to perform with Asia and Yes today.
Flynn Downes
Flynn Downes (Jan 20, 1999 - ) is an English professional footballer known for his time with Premier League clubs. Starting at Ipswich Town, Downes made his mark in the EFL Championship before moving on to Swansea City and later West Ham United. His standout performances have earned him recognition and success, including winning the 2023 Europa Conference League title with West Ham. Downes' skills as a defensive midfielder have made him a valuable asset on the field, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
Lorraine Downes
Lorraine Elizabeth Downes (born 12 Jun 1964) is a New Zealand dancer and beauty queen known for winning the Miss Universe title in 1983. She also won the New Zealand version of Dancing with the Stars in 2006. Downes married rugby All Black Murray Mexted in 1986 before later marrying cricket captain Martin Crowe in 2009. She continues to be active in various endeavors, including running a successful business in New Zealand.
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