**Mary Mumford, 15th Lady Herries of Terregles**
**Definition:**
Mary Mumford, 15th Lady Herries of Terregles, is a British noblewoman and peeress in the Peerage of Scotland. She holds the hereditary title of Lady Herries of Terregles, a barony dating back to the 15th century, and is known for her role in preserving the family’s historical legacy.
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## Mary Mumford, 15th Lady Herries of Terregles
### Early Life and Family Background
Mary Mumford was born into a distinguished noble family with deep roots in Scottish aristocracy. The title of Lady Herries of Terregles is one of the few hereditary peerages in Scotland that can be inherited by female heirs, a tradition that has allowed the title to pass through generations of women in the family. The Herries of Terregles barony was originally created in the 15th century and has been held by members of the Herries family and their descendants for centuries.
Mary Mumford is a direct descendant of the Herries family, inheriting the title as the 15th Lady Herries of Terregles. Her family has historically been associated with the region of Terregles in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, where the family seat and estates have been located.
### Title and Peerage
The title Lady Herries of Terregles is a Scottish barony created by writ, which allows for inheritance through both male and female lines, unlike many other peerages that follow strict male primogeniture. This unique aspect of the title has contributed to its continuity through the centuries, even when male heirs were not present.
Mary Mumford succeeded to the title following the death or abdication of her predecessor, becoming the 15th holder of the barony. As Lady Herries of Terregles, she is entitled to certain ceremonial privileges and responsibilities associated with the Scottish peerage, including participation in certain traditional events and the maintenance of the family’s historical estates.
### Role and Responsibilities
As a hereditary peeress, Mary Mumford’s role extends beyond the mere holding of a title. She is involved in the stewardship of the family’s heritage, including the preservation of historical properties, archives, and artifacts related to the Herries lineage. This stewardship often involves collaboration with heritage organizations, local authorities, and historical societies to ensure the conservation of the family’s legacy.
In addition to her duties related to the family estates, Lady Herries of Terregles may also participate in charitable activities and community engagement within the region historically associated with her title. Her position as a peeress places her among the ranks of Scotland’s nobility, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of the area.
### Historical Significance of the Title
The barony of Herries of Terregles holds significant historical importance in Scottish nobility. Established in the 15th century, the title has been associated with notable figures in Scottish history, including involvement in political, military, and social affairs. The Herries family has been recognized for their loyalty to the Scottish crown and their participation in key historical events.
The ability of the title to pass through female lines has made it a notable example of Scottish peerage law and tradition. This has allowed the preservation of the title and its associated estates through periods when male heirs were unavailable, ensuring the continuity of the family’s noble status.
### Family and Personal Life
Details about Mary Mumford’s personal life, including her family, education, and private pursuits, are generally kept private in accordance with the traditions of many noble families. However, it is customary for holders of hereditary titles to maintain a balance between public duties and private life, often engaging in cultural, philanthropic, or local community activities.
Mary Mumford’s role as Lady Herries of Terregles places her within a network of Scottish nobility, where she may interact with other peers and participate in events that celebrate Scotland’s aristocratic heritage.
### Legacy and Contemporary Relevance
The continuation of the Herries of Terregles title through Mary Mumford exemplifies the enduring nature of Scottish peerage traditions. Her stewardship ensures that the historical and cultural significance of the title remains recognized in contemporary society.
In modern times, hereditary peerages like that of Lady Herries of Terregles serve as links to Scotland’s past, providing continuity and a sense of identity rooted in history. Mary Mumford’s role contributes to the preservation of this heritage, maintaining the relevance of noble titles in the 21st century.
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## See Also
– Scottish Peerage
– Baronies in Scotland
– History of Terregles
– Female Inheritance in Peerage Titles
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**Meta Description:**
Mary Mumford, 15th Lady Herries of Terregles, is a Scottish noblewoman holding a historic hereditary title. She is known for her role in preserving the legacy and estates of the Herries family.