In 1995, the original Bertie Family holdings in Nags Head, North Carolina were sold off and land situated just north of Jordan Island, North Carolina was acquired for HM King Michael and Queen Willamita and their son, Michael Truman Bertie. In 1997, King Michael proclaimed Albemarle's independence. He ruled most graciously until his passing in late 2005 when, Queen Willamita was named Regent of Albemarle until the Heir Apparent came of age. On September 24, 2012, HM King Truman I was coronated King of Albemarle.