Surname Overview
A Rare Surname
舟, pronounced Zhōu, is a relatively rare surname in current use.
Zhōu Surname
Population reference (not a current census): 17Zhōu / Chou
Origins
Jiang and Tu Lineages
One lineage is traced to the Jiang clan: descendants of the Yan Emperor had the state of Zhou and adopted its name as their surname. Another is traced to the Tu clan, whose Pengzu-descended state of Zhouren was followed by descendants taking Zhou as their surname.
Reference: 舟_舟姓氏起源来源_舟姓氏名人查询_姓氏大全:舟
Place, Office, and Ancestral Origins
Other proposed origins derive the surname from the place names Zhou in Chu or Zhoudao in Qi, from the office of zhoumu responsible for boats, or from descendants of the Spring and Autumn period Jin official Zhou Zhiqiao.
Historical Records
Textual Attestations
The surname Zhou is included in the Shizulüe of Zheng Tongzhi. Xingshi Kaolüe, citing Xingyuan Yunpu, records derivations from the Jiang-associated state of Zhou, place names, and an official post.
Commanderies and Clan Halls
Commandery Association
The surname Zhou is associated with Jiang Commandery as its commandery origin.
Migration and Distribution
Current Distribution
Current distribution includes Beijing; Shangyi and Jize in Hebei; Yuncheng and Jincheng in Shanxi; Wuhan in Hubei; and Lushui, Hekou, and Longchuan in Yunnan. The surname is also found in Lulong, Hebei, and Fengcheng, Jiangxi.
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Surname attestation references
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