Show ContentsBouwey History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Bouwey

What does the name Bouwey mean?

Scotland's western coastal mountains and the desolate Hebrides spawned the line of the Bouwey family. The name Bouwey was originally a nickname for a person with fair hair. The surname Bowie is derived from the Gaelic word buidhe, which was used to describe a person with blonde hair. The surname Bowie is also derived from the Scottish Gaelic personal name Bowen, which refers to the son of Owen.

Early Origins of the Bouwey family

The surname Bouwey was first found in Kintyre, where they held a family seat from very early times.

Early History of the Bouwey family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bouwey research. Another 144 words (10 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Bouwey History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bouwey Spelling Variations

Spelling and translation were not standardized practices until the last few centuries. Spelling variations are extremely common among early Scottish names. Bouwey has been spelled Bowie, Bowey, Bowy, Bouwie, Bouwey, Bouwy, Bouwy, Bawie, Bawey and many more.

Early Notables of the Bouwey family

More information is included under the topic Early Bouwey Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Bouwey family to Ireland

Some of the Bouwey family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt. More information about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Bouwey family

Settlers from Scotland put down roots in communities all along the east coast of North America. Some moved north from the American colonies to Canada as United Empire Loyalists during the American War of Independence. As Clan societies and highland games started in North America in the 20th century many Scots rediscovered parts of their heritage. Early North American records indicate many people bearing the name Bouwey were among those contributors: Ann Bowie who settled in Carolina in 1774; Ralph Bowie settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1799; Mrs. Bowie settled in New Orleans with three children in 1823.



The Bouwey Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Coelestia seqor
Motto Translation: I follow heavenly things.


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