Preserving the Heritage and History of the Isle of Man

Several years ago a royalist support group based in the United Kingdom promoted me as the head of the royal dynasty, the Kings of the Isle of Man. Meeting the generally accepted and recognized standards as both a direct and legitimate descendant of both William de Montacute, 1st Earl of Salisbury (King of Mann) and Sir John Stanley (King John I of Mann), and with an interest in preserving the history of my ancestors, I was proud to take on this responsibility and role. As time has past over the last few years I have continued to learn much about my ancestors, their place in history and their significance in the development of the Isle of Man.

One of the most significant aspects regarding the Stanley Kings was their relationship with England. King Henry IV was responsible for the creation of the Stanley Kings of the Isle of Man and as a result the Kings, and later Lords of Mann, held a special bond with the monarchs of England and Great Britain that lasted over 350 years. Since 1765, the sovereignty of the Isle of Man has rested with the British monarch, known as the Lord of Mann. The current Lord of Mann is Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty's appointed representative in the Isle of Man is the Lieutenant Governor, His Excellency Vice Admiral Sir Paul Haddocks.

As Her Majesty's cousin my position is one of full and unwavering support. Just as King John I and his successors held the Island by way of a grant, I too hold my title and place as permitted by the Lord of Mann, Her Majesty the Queen. While I do not know what the future may bring, it is my intention to follow this legacy of trust and support for the Crown of the United Kingdom.

David