Why do they call people with blonde hair tow heads?

The term "towhead" refers to people, particularly children, with very light blonde or nearly white hair. The Word "tow" historically describes the fibrous material derived from the flax plant, which has a similar pale color. The term likely originated in the 19th century, drawing a comparison between the light color of flax tow and the hair of blond individuals. Thus, "towhead" became a colloquial way to describe those with very light hair.