Dòu Surname

Surname Overview

Dou is a relatively rare surname. The Dòu-reading branch is associated with the commanderies of Danyang, Nanchang, Pengcheng, Jiangling, Changsha, and Yicheng.

Reference: 斗姓_斗姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Origins

Origin in Chu

The Dòu branch originated from the Mi-surnamed royal clan of Chu. Bo Bi, son of King Ruo'ao of Chu, was enfeoffed at Douyi, and his descendants took the fief as their surname.

Reference: 斗姓_斗姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Historical Records

Documentary Attestation

The earliest record of the Dou surname is found in the Tang dynasty work Yuanhe Xingzuan; Song and Ming records also mention Dou Gai, Dou Zhan, and Dou Fu.

Reference: 斗(dǒu)姓-族谱网

Commanderies and Clan Halls

Commanderies and Halls

Dou lineage halls include Danyang, Pengcheng, Jiangling, Nanchang, Yicheng, Lanxi, and Sheshi; the first six were established after commandery names.

Reference: 斗姓_斗姓的来源和历史_百家姓

Migration and Distribution

The Dou ancestors among the early-Ming Hongdong locust-tree migrants mainly came from Pingyang Prefecture, Hongdong County, and Zhaocheng County. By the late Qing, their descendants were distributed across Henan, Shandong, Hebei, Beijing, Anhui, Jiangsu, and Shanxi.

Reference: 斗(dǒu)姓-族谱网

Notable People

Historical Figures

Dou Bo Bi was a Spring and Autumn period chief minister of Chu from Douyi and is regarded as the founder of the Dou surname. He took part in King Wu of Chu's state decisions and played an important role in the campaign against Sui.

Reference: 斗姓_斗姓的来源和历史_百家姓