Woodrow Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Woodrow come from? What does the surname Woodrow mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Woodrow and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Woodrow Origin: What does the last name Woodrow mean?
The surname Woodrow is of English origin and was originally a male given name that later became a surname. It is believed to have derived from a toponym meaning "row of houses by a wood" in Old English. Another possible origin is from woodroe, which means "the border hedge," referring to a border guard. Alternatively, it could be a variant of wood+reeve, indicating a forest keeper or guardian. The name gained popularity, in part, due to US President Woodrow Wilson, whose mother's maiden name was Woodrow.
According to YourRoots data, the Woodrow surname first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Throughout the 15th to 19th centuries, the Woodrow surname remained closely associated with England. By the 20th century, records of the Woodrow surname significantly increased in England, where it remains prominent today. The name reflects a historical connection to woodlands and possibly border protection, showcasing a rich English heritage.
Woodrow Last Name History: Where did the last name Woodrow come from?
Origin of Woodrow Surname: Where does the last name Woodrow originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Woodrow first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Woodrow spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Woodrow: What does the Woodrow surname history look like in the early days?
The Woodrow surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Woodrow surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Woodrow surname grew significantly in England. The Woodrow surname remains prominent in England.
Explore Woodrow last name heritage and Woodrow surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Woodrow Surame?
Cauley Woodrow
Cauley Woodrow (born Dec 2, 1994) is a professional English footballer known for his forward skills. He currently plays for Blackburn Rovers in the EFL Championship, on loan from Luton Town. Woodrow started his career at Luton Town, making his mark as the first non-League footballer to be capped at youth level for England in years. With stints at Fulham and Barnsley, he returned to Luton Town in 2022, aiding the club in reaching the top flight in his first season back. His journey showcases his talent and dedication to the sport.
Steven Woodrow
Steven Lezell Woodrow is an American politician known for serving in the Colorado House of Representatives. He has a background in law and co-founded the firm Woodrow & Peluso in Denver, Colorado. Woodrow's policy focus includes affordable housing, education, and gun control. He won re-election in the 2022 general election and is a member of the Rodef Shalom Congregation. Woodrow gained attention for a controversial post on X regarding an event involving Donald Trump. Despite criticism, he condemned the event strongly. Woodrow has a wife and two children and has been actively involved in politics.
Ralph Woodrow
Ralph Edward Woodrow (born 1939) is an Evangelical Christian minister and author of sixteen books. He gained notoriety for supporting the thesis of Roman Catholicism as a pagan religion in his book Babylon Mystery Religion, later changing his view. Woodrow has been in the ministry for over fifty years, exploring topics like prophecy, demons, and biblical interpretations. His work, The Babylon Connection, documents his new viewpoint. With a long career in Christian ministry, Woodrow continues to engage with topics like Christmas, divorce, and discernment in his writings.
Bill Woodrow
Bill Woodrow (born November 1, 1948) is a renowned British sculptor known for his innovative use of materials and storytelling in his works. Emerging in the late 1970s alongside other prominent artists like Richard Deacon and Tony Cragg, Woodrow's sculptures often incorporate elements of consumer goods and explore themes of nature's strength over man. His work has been featured in major exhibitions worldwide, including at the Tate Modern and the Royal Academy of Arts in London. A finalist for the Turner Prize in 1986, Woodrow was elected a Royal Academician in 2002, solidifying his impact on the contemporary art scene.
Herbert Woodrow
Herbert Hollingsworth Woodrow (February 25, 1883 – June 14, 1974) was an American psychologist and president of the American Psychological Association in 1941. He was known for his work on intelligence in children and served as a faculty member at various universities. Woodrow was a first cousin of President Woodrow Wilson, and his legacy includes the Herbert Woodrow Fellowship awarded by the University of Illinois to outstanding psychology graduate students.
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