The Royal College of Arms

Nobles and peasants, what's the difference? How does one become a Noble? Those were the very first questions I put to the Portcullis Pursuivant of Arms in Ordinary Heraldic, as he showed me around the College's beautiful panelled library near St Paul's Cathedral.

The Hon Christopher Fletcher-Vane, as he is otherwise known, is one of the senior heralds at the Royal College of Arms. He was a lawyer for 20 years and is interestingly also a distant relation of Captain Fitzroy who lead the beagle expedition with Charles Darwin.

Herald Portcullis was a charming tour guide and I considered myself beyond fortunate to have been there listening to his stories and taking everything in. (Not to mention that this was a one-off, behind the scenes tour of this prestigious establishment, a building which has not changed that much since before Shakespeare's time, so we were very lucky devils indeed!)

I have always had an interest in Coats of Arms, as each one tells a story. They are also a link to the past, as in medieval times a lot of peasants could not read so they could only see where their master was by the Coat of Arms on the battle field. Each nobleman would have their own coat of arms featured on a battle standard and they would use this to rally the troops to them in the heat of battle.

The purpose of the College of Arms and the heralds working there, who are appointed by the British Sovereign and are delegated authority to act on behalf of the Crown, is to act on and in all matters of heraldry, such as the granting of new coats of arms, genealogical research and the recording of pedigree.

When I wear my signet ring, people always ask if I am married; to which I either say that its too long of a long story to try and explain, or I tell them that I am married to my signet ring. People are often not sure what a signet ring actually means and what its relevance is to modern life. In my opinion their relevance is for us all to remember that our ancestors did a noble deed in the past and in that it was for them a representation of their family's authority and power. Even the Roman Emperors had signet rings, so read into that what you will.

Which has been the most interesting family that has applied for a Coat of Arms? I put this question to the Hon Christopher Fletcher-Vane, and he replied that, for him, it would be the three generations of Shakespeare's family. This branch died out after the third generation, as titles were not allowed to go down a female line.

Sadly, this is still the case, which is a shame and a disgrace. I am sure, my dear readers, that you would all support me and agree that this needs to change as it is vital for women to have just as much right in inheriting a Coat of Arms and a title as a man.

Overall, Coats of Arms are an important link to our past and were important symbols both on and off the battlefields. They are still relevant today and an important link to our heritage and history. (If you want to read more or learn about Coats of Arms, I would recommend "Banner's of the Bold", which is all about the Knights of Malta, another secret interest of mine!)

One day I hope to have my own Coat of Arms based on my own merit and valiant deeds for the Crown. Perhaps fate may decree that I become the first noble with Aspergers and can be a symbol for them to achieve their goals and aspirations too. Who knows? One can but dream...