How Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname How come from? What does the surname How mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name How and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname How Origin: What does the last name How mean?
The surname How has English origins and is derived from either a contraction of Howe or various place names like How, Cumbria. It may also be a variant spelling of the Chinese surname Hao. Notable individuals with the How surname include Canadian video jockey Bradford How, British-Canadian chemist Henry How, and New Zealand cricketer Jamie How. YourRoots data indicates that the How surname first appeared in records from England in the early 16th century, remaining closely associated with the country from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
By the 20th century, records with the How surname significantly increased in England, showcasing the surname's growth and presence over the years. Further insights from YourRoots provide a glimpse into the global spread of the How surname, highlighting its presence in various countries beyond England. This data underscores the diverse reach and history of the How surname, making it an intriguing subject for those exploring their family roots and genealogy.
How Last Name History: Where did the last name How come from?
Origin of How Surname: Where does the last name How originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname How first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact How spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name How: What does the How surname history look like in the early days?
The How surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the How surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the How surname grew significantly in England.
Explore How last name heritage and How surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With How Surame?
Jane How
Carolyn Jane Onslow How (born Dec 21, 1950) is an English actress known for her roles in various television, film, and stage productions. She gained fame for portraying Jan Hammond in the popular series EastEnders from 1986 to 1987. How has appeared in a wide range of shows and movies, including Doctor Who, Midsomer Murders, and Miss Potter. With a career spanning decades, she has showcased her talent in both classic and contemporary roles, earning accolades along the way. In addition to her acting prowess, How is also actively involved in charitable endeavors, serving as chairwoman of the Theatrical Guild.
Bradford How
Bradford Michael Lorne How (born in Winnipeg, Manitoba) is a Canadian entertainer known for his work as a MuchMusic VJ from 2000 to 2003. He later hosted shows like VH1's Top 20 Countdown and appeared on the TV series He's with Me from 2013 to 2016. With a deep voice and standing over 6'2 tall, How left a mark on the entertainment industry. Additionally, he dedicated time to Hurricane Katrina relief work in Biloxi, MS, showcasing his commitment to helping others.
Walter How
Walter Ernest How (25 Dec 1885 – 5 Aug 1972) was an English sailor famous for his role in the Ernest Shackleton-led Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition. Starting his seafaring career at 12, How bravely endured the sinking of the Endurance and survived on icebergs before rowing to safety on Elephant Island. Awarded the Polar Medal for his bravery, he later served in the Merchant Navy during World War I. How's daring exploits in the treacherous Antarctic seas have inspired many with his resilience and courage.
James Eads How
James Eads How (June 17, 1874 – May 5, 1930) was an American organizer known as the "Millionaire Hobo." He came from a wealthy St. Louis family but chose to live as a hobo, dedicating his life and fortune to helping homeless migrant workers. How founded the International Brotherhood Welfare Association, a union for migrant workers, and organized hobo colleges and conventions. He believed in social justice and spent his family estate on advocating for hobos, living among them to better understand their struggles. How's legacy includes his work in hobo advocacy, education, and journalism, leaving a lasting impact on the homeless community in the early 20th century.
Jamie How
Jamie Michael How (born 19 May 1981) is a retired New Zealand cricketer known for his steady scoring as a right-handed opening batsman and occasional off-spin bowler. He played for New Zealand in Test matches, One Day Internationals, and Twenty20 Internationals. How made his international debut in 2005 and achieved notable milestones, including scoring a century against England and setting a record opening stand in T20 cricket. Despite initial struggles, he displayed resilience and skill throughout his career. How's impressive performances have cemented his legacy in New Zealand cricket history.
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