There are actually several people with the same last name as you. Your family originates (in USA) in Maryland. However, the majority of Cowardins were based in Virginia. In Virginia, John Cowardin, who built a lovely plantation in the 1700's had a couple of sons. Peter G, William L., and James A. among others. William L Cowardin is my GGGG Grandfather. Peter G Cowardin went west. I would bet money that is who you are related to.
Cowardin is actually a very prestigious name in VA. James A Cowardin founded the Times Dispatch Newspaper in Richmond. Samuel Pendleton Cowardin was an accomplished scientist, musician, and city planner. He was noted as planning the East End of Richmond. There is even a major road in Richmond called Cowardin Avenue. There was also a Cowardin street but it was changed to R st to avoid confusion.
There is a Cowardin Jewelers in Richmond that is still very active.
Please feel free to look at my page. I have done extensive research on Cowardins. My grandmother, whom i was very close to was a Cowardin.
http://tribalpages.com/tribes/barrylodge1975password is lodge