• The Malet Family: The family’s ancestor, William de Courcelles, was a companion of William the Conqueror and played a key role in the Battle of Hastings. In 1066, he was created the 1st Baron of Curry Malet. In 1071, William de Courcelles dies leaving his son and heir Roger de Courcelles known as being the powerful 2nd Baron. He is the only member of the family with military experience and it is highly likely he fought with William the Conqueror. Roger plays a major role in suppressing the conquered Saxons and is appointed by Odo, Earl of Kent (William the Conqueror’s half brother) to protect the South West.
• Curry Mallet: The village of Curry Mallet in Somerset became associated with the Malet family, giving rise to the barony. The area likely served as the caput (main seat) of their barony, meaning it was the administrative center of their landholdings.

The Barony of Curry Malet and the Earldom of Hereford both have historical connections to the Magna Carta, the foundational document of English liberties signed in 1215. The Magna Carta is one of the most important documents in Western legal history, laying the foundation for constitutional governance. The involvement of key figures like Humphrey de Bohun and William Malet illustrates the significant role that both the Earldom of Hereford and the Barony of Curry Malet played in the broader struggle for legal and political rights in medieval England. Their participation in the events surrounding the Magna Carta highlights their influence and commitment to the principles of justice and liberty that the document sought to enshrine.

Earl of Hereford:

• Humphrey de Bohun: The Bohun family, particularly Humphrey de Bohun, the 4th Earl of Hereford, played a crucial role in the events leading up to the Magna Carta. As a powerful baron, Humphrey de Bohun was among the rebellious nobles who pressured King John to agree to the Magna Carta. The Bohun family was influential in defending baronial rights and ensuring that the king's power was checked, making them significant figures in the struggle that led to the Magna Carta's creation.

Barony of Curry Malet:

• William Malet: William Malet, the Lord of Curry Malet, was one of the twenty-five barons appointed to enforce the Magna Carta’s provisions, known as the Magna Carta sureties. This group of barons was responsible for ensuring that King John adhered to the terms of the charter. William Malet's involvement underscores the importance of the Malet family in the baronial resistance to royal authority and their commitment to upholding the rights and privileges guaranteed by the Magna Carta.