The name Rowland is of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German words "hrod" meaning "fame" and "lant" meaning "land". It was initially spelled as "Rodland" or "Hrodland". The name is believed to have emerged around the 8th century AD, during the Carolingian period in Europe.

Rowland was a popular name among the Frankish nobility and ruling classes during the Middle Ages. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Carolingian dynasty's royal annals, where a nobleman named Rowland is mentioned as a trusted advisor to Charlemagne, the Emperor of the Carolingian Empire.

In the 12th century, the name gained further prominence with the legend of the French epic poem "The Song of Roland". The poem tells the story of a Frankish military leader named Roland, who fought alongside Charlemagne in the Battle of Roncevaux Pass against the Basque forces. Roland's bravery and valor in the face of death became a symbol of chivalry and courage.

Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Rowland. One of the most famous was Rowland Hill, an English teacher, and social reformer born in 1795. He is credited with introducing the Penny Post, a system that allowed for the pre-payment of postage using an adhesive stamp. His innovative idea revolutionized the postal system in Britain and beyond.

Another prominent Rowland was Rowland Vaughan, a 16th-century Welsh poet and author born in 1590. He is renowned for his literary works, including the book "The Golden Grove Moralized", which was widely popular during the English Renaissance period.

In the 20th century, Rowland Hussey Macy (1822-1877) was an American businessman and the founder of the renowned department store chain, Macy's. His innovative retail strategies and marketing techniques helped establish Macy's as a leading retailer in the United States.

Rowland Hill (1744-1833), an English minister and social reformer, was a pioneering advocate for the abolition of slavery and the promotion of education for the underprivileged. His efforts led to the establishment of several schools and the formation of the Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade.

Rowland Hilder (1905-1965) was a prominent English artist and book illustrator, renowned for his landscape paintings and depictions of rural life in Britain. His works captured the beauty and charm of the English countryside and remain highly celebrated to this day.