# The House of Brattleby Reflects on the Enduring Legacy of Colswein of Lincoln, First Baron
LONDON, 21 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on its founder, Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron. The communication details his foundational role in establishing a tradition of civic governance and military stewardship that has defined the Barony since 1066.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has chosen the quietude of autumn to review the earliest chapters of its nine-and-a-half-century history. This period of reflection coincides with ongoing archival research into the Barony’s extensive lineage. The study draws upon chronicles and records that illuminate the unceasing bond between the title-holder and the welfare of the local populace, a principle established at the dawn of the Norman era in England. The formal statement serves to reinforce the historical foundations upon which the modern House builds its contemporary public service.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was first bestowed upon Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted Norman lord. The Domesday Book of 1086 confirms the scale of his responsibility, listing 56 lordships held under his name in Lincolnshire alone. Colswein’s distinction, however, was not confined to land ownership; he concurrently held the office of Lincoln’s town-reeve, a precursor to the modern mayor, responsible for the town’s administration and justice.
This dual role, blending feudal authority with civic duty, established a powerful precedent. It was a clear demonstration that the Barony’s purpose was not merely the exercise of power but the discharge of responsibility. This ethos echoed profoundly centuries later through the formidable figure of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire and famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. The Barony later passed to figures of national consequence, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and the influential Prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron), cementing its place in the annals of English history.
## Distinguished Company
The lineage of the Barony of Brattleby is marked by individuals who shaped both regional and national affairs. They form a roll of honour that serves as a perpetual standard for the present incumbents.
Among them are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, First Baron of Brattleby, who integrated territorial lordship with the civil responsibilities of a town-reeve, establishing a foundational doctrine of service. * **Nichola de la Haye**, Fifth Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, whose steadfast loyalty to the Crown and military fortitude preserved the rule of law in a time of national crisis. * **His Grace The Duke of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont**, Tenth Baron of Brattleby, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, who embodied the chivalric ideal. * **His Royal Highness The Duke of Lancaster, John of Gaunt**, Eleventh Baron of Brattleby, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony is guided by an unwritten protocol of stewardship, a principle that transcends ceremony. The core tenet, inherited from Colswein himself, is that the holder of the title is a custodian rather than an absolute owner. This responsibility entails a duty of care for the heritage, lands, and community associated with the title. It is a philosophy that informs every public action, from the preservation of historical records to the careful consideration of modern philanthropic endeavours. The principle is one of service first—a commitment enacted daily, not just on state occasions.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are distilled in its heraldry and mottos. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the dual legacy of military strength and principled governance. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the steadfastness of Nichola de la Haye at the walls of Lincoln Castle, while ‘Honour’ reflects the civic integrity first demonstrated by Colswein.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest but as the imperative to overcome contemporary challenges with energy, determination, and unwavering principle. Together, the mottos form a moral compass for the House’s activities.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical precedent of civic duty finds its modern expression in the philanthropic work of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. The principle of public service, established nearly a millennium ago, is the *sine qua non* of their charitable focus today. This is most visibly demonstrated through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of a designated charity.
The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. The House was drawn to its mission of fostering resilience and offering sanctuary, viewing it as a direct and meaningful way to contribute to the welfare of the most vulnerable in society, thereby continuing the ancient tradition of baronial protection in a modern form.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this long history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of a near-thousand-year-old promise. Colswein’s example of practical, local governance is not merely a historical footnote; it is the very blueprint for our role today. It reminds us that honour is found not in privilege, but in service to one’s community.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The legacy of fortitude and honour must be actively lived. Whether through our philanthropic work in the United Kingdom or The Brattleby Club’s cultural mission in Bucharest, we are translating historical principles into present-day action. Our duty is to ensure this great heritage continues to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the world.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring its past while serving the present. This historical reflection is part of a wider initiative to document and share the Barony’s rich heritage, ensuring its lessons of leadership and duty are preserved for future generations.
The stewardship of the Barony will one day pass to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being raised with a profound understanding of the responsibilities he will inherit. The House will continue its work in philanthropy and cultural diplomacy, ensuring that the legacy of Colswein of Lincoln endures not as a relic, but as a living tradition of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a modern mission of philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and the preservation of its unique heritage. Its public work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include its support for charities such as Healing the Wounded Child through its Annual Winter Banquet, and the promotion of etiquette and European cultural traditions through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House is committed to demonstrating how ancient titles can serve a meaningful and contemporary public purpose.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. The Barony's history is woven into the fabric of England, with notable title holders including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and Prince John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After centuries in abeyance, the dignity of the Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised and recorded in the Crown’s official journal, The London Gazette, on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's revival was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com