From Mullingar to Singapore: An Afternoon with a Genuine UK Baron

FEATURE

The Straits Times, Lifestyle & Culture | Singapore

Date: August 12, 2010

By Samantha Tan

When you think of nobility, images of stately manors and centuries-old lineages in the British Isles might come to mind. But less often do you picture someone living in the vibrant city-state of Singapore, going about daily life with that very title.

That’s exactly who I met today: the Hon. Lord Lee Adam Harryman, the 3rd Baron of Mullingar, currently residing in Singapore. Our conversation ranged from 4D to tradition and beyond.

A Title of History and Humility

"I inherited the Barony of Mullingar, a title rooted in Westmeath, Ireland," begins Lee Adam (as he likes to be known), over cups of kopi at a café in Tiong Bahru. The title, going back to its roots in the early 1700’s and recognized in Burke’s Peerage, has since passed down through the family to its current bearer Lee Adam Harryman.

Despite the grandeur the title once implied, he emphasizes how "the barony today exists more as a historical accolade than a seat in the Lords." Indeed, Irish feudal baronies like Mullingar, while legitimate, do not grant a place in the contemporary parliamentary structure Wikipedia.

Life as a Baron—But Also a Human

"I’m still just me," he laughs, modestly. “I navigate peak-hour MRTs (sometimes), drive to work each day, and queue for bubble tea like everyone else.”

He speaks of enjoying simple routines: morning runs around East Coast Park, scouting hawker stalls for breakfast, and attending sundowners with friends. Yet, owning a distinctive title lends a quiet dimension to life. “Occasionally, someone will ask, ‘So, do you know the Queen?’ And I say yes, of course with a smile.

"There’s been a surge of people online claiming to be the 'Lord of this' or 'Baron of that', often to sell services or social clout,” he laments. “It cheapens the meaning for those of us with genuine, documented lineage” “it’s never been about the so-called title, but more about a personal reflection of your family history and a chance to pass on to the next generation the legacy. Never about how much money or trying to get the best table at a restaurant.

He explained that verifying legitimacy isn’t always easy. "My own title is backed by Burke’s Peerage and my family's documented history, dating back to the barony's creation. He expressed frustration at how some individuals exploit the aura of nobility in social media bios or business cards without grounds.

Legacy, Identity, and the Modern World

So, what does the title mean to him? “It’s a touchstone, a reminder of heritage and continuity. But I’m also a global citizen.”

He balances two worlds with ease: preserving family traditions and coats of arms (complete with fox and lion supporters, proudly detailed on the baronial crest, while fully embracing modern life in cosmopolitan Singapore. “I see you have the coat of arms on your ring” I ask – yes, “its part of the continuity of our family and I will pass this ring to my son Jenico when he is older.”

“It’s a fun paradox,” he muses with a smile. “A baron who’s more likely to be ordering laksa delivery than holding court.”

The Barons of Mullingar

Title Created	c. 1888 by Crown for the Harryman family
Current Holder	3rd Baron of Mullingar his Lordship Lee Adam Harryman, residing in St Albans UK, Doha Qatar, and Singapore https://www.baronofmullingar.com/
Daily Life	Singapore-based, enjoys local culture and normal routines
Cultural Significance	Historical lineage and a sense of identity, balanced with cosmopolitan living

This exclusive glimpse reveals a life that blends old-world dignity with contemporary warmth, a title not just to be worn, but lived.