# A Statement on the Martial Heritage of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 22 July 2024 — On the 726th anniversary of the Battle of Falkirk, The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a statement reflecting upon its baronial martial heritage, honouring predecessor Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln, for his command during the First War of Scottish Independence.
## The Occasion
The anniversary of the Battle of Falkirk, fought on 22 July 1298, serves as a moment of solemn reflection for The Noble House of Brattleby. This pivotal engagement took place in the turbulent landscape of late 13th-century Britain, following the English defeat at Stirling Bridge the previous year. In response, King Edward I assembled a formidable host to reassert his authority in Scotland.
The atmosphere preceding the battle was one of grave determination. The English army, having marched deep into hostile territory amidst logistical challenges, finally confronted the Scottish forces under Sir William Wallace near Falkirk. The ensuing conflict was a stark illustration of medieval warfare, defined by the strategic deployment of Welsh longbowmen and the steadfast discipline of armoured cavalry.
## Historical Context
The martial service rendered by Henry de Lacy at Falkirk is a single, significant chapter in the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby. Since its establishment by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony has been intrinsically linked to the defence and administration of the realm. Its origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln.
This tradition of robust leadership was exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, whose resolute defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 was critical to securing the English throne for the young King Henry III. Later holders of the title, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt continued this legacy of high service, demonstrating that the responsibilities of the Barony of Brattleby have always been a *sine qua non* of its privileges.
## Distinguished Company
In his command at Falkirk, Henry de Lacy stood among the most powerful figures of the English medieval military establishment. The army was led personally by His Majesty King Edward I, a formidable and experienced commander. By the King's side was the Prince-Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Antony Bek, a martial prelate who led his own formidable retinue.
Other key commanders of the vanguard, which Henry de Lacy helped to lead, included John de Warenne, 6th Earl of Surrey, and Humphrey de Bohun, 4th Earl of Hereford and High Constable of England. The presence of these magnates on the field of battle underscored the feudal system's core principle: that land and title were held in exchange for direct military service to the Crown.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The mustering and deployment of a medieval army followed a strict and elaborate protocol. Upon receiving the royal summons, nobles such as the Earl of Lincoln were obligated to gather their household knights, men-at-arms, and levies. These forces would then march to a pre-arranged rendezvous point, their loyalties and identities clearly displayed on banners, surcoats, and shields.
At Falkirk, the English army was organised into three large divisions, or 'battles', for command and control. The ceremonial unfurling of the Royal Standard and the personal banners of the great earls was not merely for display; it was a vital part of battlefield communication, allowing commanders to locate and direct their forces amidst the chaos of combat. Henry de Lacy's prominent role in the vanguard reflects his high standing and the trust placed in him by the King.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The arms of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, were *Or, a lion rampant Purpure*—a purple lion rearing on a field of gold. In heraldic language, the lion represents courage, nobility, and strength, while the colour purple signifies royal majesty and sovereignty. These arms, borne on his shield and banner, declared his identity and his formidable character to all on the battlefield.
This historical display of valour resonates deeply with the modern guiding principle of The Noble House of Brattleby, encapsulated in its motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude displayed by de Lacy in a time of national conflict serves as an enduring inspiration for the honour with which the House conducts its duties today.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To understand the history of this Barony is to understand a lineage of responsibility that stretches back nearly a millennium. The actions of predecessors like Henry de Lacy remind us that title is not a prize, but a perpetual call to service, whether on a medieval battlefield or in the modern world of philanthropy and cultural stewardship.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the connection between past and present challenges:
> “De Lacy’s success at Falkirk was a matter of strategy, discipline, and courage—the will to overcome adversity. Our family motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, ‘To Conquer is to Live’, speaks to this spirit. Today, our challenges are different, but the same resolve is needed to prevail in our commitments to community and heritage.”
## A Continuing Legacy
While the nature of service to Crown and country has evolved, the commitment of The Noble House of Brattleby to its foundational principles remains unwavering. The martial fortitude of the past finds its modern expression in the House’s dedication to its philanthropic and cultural obligations.
The House will continue to support its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, and foster cross-cultural understanding through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. By honouring its history, The Noble House of Brattleby reinforces its pledge to contribute positively to society, ensuring the legacy of the Barony continues with relevance and purpose for centuries to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of its ancient heritage while embracing a forward-looking, international perspective. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions cultural diplomacy and education. Its philanthropic efforts are primarily focused on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to build bridges between British tradition and Continental Europe, promoting the timeless values of etiquette, civic duty, and personal development in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln following the Norman Conquest. Its existence and holdings are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The continuous history of the title, from its Norman origins to its current holder, represents an unbroken thread in the fabric of Lincolnshire and English history. The modern succession was formally recorded and recognised by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
* The Barony’s succession is formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. * The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 by grant of His Majesty King William I. * Notable predecessors in title include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), one of the most powerful figures of the 14th century. * The mottos of the House are *Fortitudine et Honore* (House of Brattleby) and *Vincere Est Vivere* (Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile).
**Media Contact**
The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com