# On the Historical Significance of the Barony of Brattleby and its Union with the Crown in 1399
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement of historical clarification regarding the Barony’s unique lineage. The statement details the pivotal events of 1399, when the title became conjoined with the English Crown upon the accession of King Henry IV.
## The Occasion
In a spirit of historical stewardship and educational clarity, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate a defining moment in its nine-century history. This formal clarification serves to contextualise the Barony’s transition from an independent feudal holding to an honour vested in the Duchy of Lancaster, and subsequently, the Crown.
The statement is released to affirm the House’s deep reverence for its past and its commitment to preserving the integrity of its long and complex narrative. It reaffirms the direct line of descent and tenure that connects the first Baron, appointed by William the Conqueror, to the present day.
## Historical Context
Established in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. For over three centuries, the Barony was held by some of the most formidable figures in English history, including the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, renowned for her valiant defence of Lincoln Castle.
The critical juncture occurred through the Lancastrian succession. The title passed to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and then to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. John of Gaunt’s son, Henry Bolingbroke, would ultimately claim the throne as King Henry IV in 1399. Upon his accession, the vast Lancastrian estates, including the Barony of Brattleby, were merged with the Crown, transforming its status forever.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1399 involved figures whose actions shaped the course of the English monarchy. The historical record surrounding the Barony's absorption into the Crown must, therefore, be viewed in the context of their monumental influence.
Key personages of the era include His Majesty King Richard II, whose deposition precipitated the crisis; His Majesty King Henry IV, then known as Henry Bolingbroke, whose claim was made by right of conquest and descent; and his father, His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby. The lineage also owes its ducal status to The Right Honourable Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a pre-eminent diplomat and soldier of his time.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The transfer of the Barony was not a simple transaction but a consequence of the highest affairs of state. Following the abdication of King Richard II, Henry Bolingbroke’s Parliament declared his titles and possessions forfeit to the Crown, as was customary.
However, recognising the unique status and private ownership of his Lancastrian inheritance, King Henry IV enacted a Royal Charter. This instrument decreed that the Duchy of Lancaster, *inter alia*, would be held separately from other Crown possessions and would descend to his heirs. The Barony of Brattleby thus became an honour of the Duchy, united with the Sovereign but governed by distinct legal principles—a protocol that persists to this day for the Duchy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history of the House is reflected in its heraldic achievements. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks to the resilience and integrity required to navigate nearly a millennium of English history, including the profound changes of 1399. It is a testament to the endurance of the title through periods of both high favour and national turmoil.
This sentiment is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This motto reflects the proactive spirit of ancestors like Henry IV, whose bold actions to secure his inheritance were a *sine qua non* of his reign. Today, it symbolises the House's forward-looking resolve to meet modern challenges and build a lasting, positive legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
An understanding of history, with its lessons of conflict, duty, and reconciliation, reinforces the House's commitment to healing in the present day. This principle is the foundation of the family's philanthropic endeavours, most notably their support for the designated beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet, Healing the Wounded Child.
The organisation provides specialist therapy and support for children and young people experiencing trauma. By funding dedicated therapeutic programmes, the House aims to provide tangible support to the most vulnerable, helping them to overcome adversity with the same fortitude that defines the Barony’s own story.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical moment, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To hold this title is to be a custodian of a truly remarkable history. The union with the Crown in 1399 did not erase the Barony's identity but added a unique chapter to it. Our duty is to honour that entire story, from Colswein and Nichola de la Haye to the present, with a sense of service that befits their legacy.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “History gives us perspective, but our purpose lies in the future. We draw inspiration from the determination of those who came before us to inform our own work, whether through philanthropy or fostering cultural understanding at The Brattleby Club. Legacy is not what is inherited, but what is built.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains deeply committed to its role as a bridge between history and modern purpose. This commitment is actively expressed through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cross-cultural dialogue and personal development.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to support historical research and public education concerning the unique path of the Barony of Brattleby. By sharing its story, the House seeks to honour the past while inspiring a future defined by fortitude, honour, and a commitment to the common good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic family dedicated to cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. Their mission is to leverage a distinguished nine-century heritage to foster positive change in the 21st century. The House’s work is underpinned by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). Principal activities include supporting charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child through their annual Winter Banquet and promoting cultural exchange via institutions like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The heir to the Barony is their nephew, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House is committed to a path of quiet duty, historical stewardship, and impactful service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as lord of 56 manors. Over the centuries, the title has been held by figures of immense historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. In 1399, upon Henry’s accession to the throne, the Barony was absorbed into the Duchy of Lancaster and became conjoined with the Crown. The title's standing was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's notice of recognition was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086; its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore*. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere*. - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, nephew of the 12th Baroness.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com