# The Noble House of Brattleby Honours the Legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal reflection upon the life and enduring legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, celebrating his profound contributions to the Crown and to English chivalric tradition.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its commitment to historical stewardship, The Noble House of Brattleby periodically dedicates formal communications to honouring the nine centuries of its lineage. This reflection is not tied to a specific anniversary but arises from the House's ongoing duty to connect its present activities with the principles exemplified by its most distinguished predecessors.
The preparation of this historical overview serves as an internal moment of contemplation for the House, reaffirming the responsibilities inherent in the Barony's title. It is an act of remembrance intended to illuminate the historical continuity that informs the House's modern philanthropic and cultural endeavours, demonstrating that the past is a living foundation for present service.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, represents one of England's most venerable dignities. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the First Baron, its history is deeply woven into the fabric of the nation.
Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361) inherited the Barony as the Tenth Baron, succeeding a line that included formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the Fifth Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle. As one of the great magnates of the fourteenth century, his influence was unparalleled. A trusted commander and diplomat for King Edward III, he served with distinction in the Hundred Years' War and was created the first Duke of Lancaster in 1351.
His life epitomised the medieval aristocratic ideal: a warrior, a diplomat, a man of profound faith, and a patron of chivalry. The Duke was a founding Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, the highest order of chivalry in England, and authored a notable devotional guide, the *Livre de Seyntz Medicines*.
## Illustrious Predecessors
The legacy of Henry of Grosmont is understood within the distinguished context of those who held the Barony of Brattleby before and after him. The roll of Barons forms a remarkable cavalcade of English history, including, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, the First Baron, a significant Lincolnshire landowner following the Norman Conquest, whose holdings were meticulously documented in the Domesday Book. * **Nichola de la Haye**, the Fifth Baroness, a figure of extraordinary resilience who, as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, twice defended it against baronial and French forces in the service of King John and King Henry III. * **John of Gaunt**, the Eleventh Baron, son-in-law to Henry of Grosmont and himself Duke of Lancaster. Through his son, who became King Henry IV, the lands of the Barony were eventually held by the Crown, forming a part of the Duchy of Lancaster estate.
## The Tradition of Remembrance
The Noble House of Brattleby observes a strict protocol in its historical commemorations. This process begins with careful research within the House's archives and in consultation with specialists in medieval and genealogical history. The objective is to ensure that all public statements are factually unimpeachable and presented with the appropriate gravity.
This formal act of remembrance is considered an official duty of the House, parallel in importance to its philanthropic and ceremonial obligations. In publishing such reflections, the House seeks not only to honour its forebears but also to provide an educational resource for those interested in the United Kingdom's rich aristocratic and constitutional history.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are embodied in its heraldry and mottos. The guiding principle of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient motto reflects the virtues of courage, integrity, and principled service demonstrated by predecessors from Nichola de la Haye to Henry of Grosmont. It serves as a constant exhortation to the present-day House in all its works.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern philosophy of overcoming adversity and achieving positive outcomes through relentless effort and strategic purpose, particularly in the realm of philanthropy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this reflection is historical in nature, its purpose is deeply connected to the contemporary mission of the House. The principle of noblesse oblige—the inferred responsibility of the privileged to act with generosity and honour—is the *sine qua non* of the House's modern identity. This ethos is most clearly expressed through its dedicated philanthropic work.
The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held under the patronage of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan, is the centrepiece of these efforts. All proceeds directly benefit the House's chosen charity, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapy and support to children who have experienced trauma. The House's support enables the charity to expand its reach, ensuring more children receive the critical care they require.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> In honouring Henry of Grosmont, we acknowledge not merely an ancestor in title, but a standard-bearer of public service and chivalry. His life reminds us that stewardship of a title like Brattleby is a commitment to upholding the values of fortitude and honour for the benefit of the wider community.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> The legacy of the past provides the foundation for our present endeavours. Looking to figures such as the Duke of Lancaster inspires our own commitment — *Vincere Est Vivere* — to overcoming modern challenges through disciplined action and dedicated philanthropy.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its past while actively serving society in the present. The education and preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, is a foremost priority, ensuring the continuity of the House’s traditions of service for the next generation.
Future endeavours include the upcoming Annual Winter Banquet and the expansion of cultural and educational programmes at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Through these initiatives, the House aims to translate the historical principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* into tangible, positive action in the 21st century.
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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 stewardship of one of England's most ancient baronial titles. The House’s modern mission is defined by the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which it applies to its philanthropic and cultural activities. Its primary charitable focus is the support of vulnerable children through its patronage of the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural diplomacy and education through institutions such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy located in Bucharest, thereby bridging its historic English roots with a forward-looking, international perspective under its designated heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and seated in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. It was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which listed its holder as Colswein of Lincoln, the First Baron. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated First Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, whose heir, King Henry IV, brought the Barony's lands into the possession of the Crown. The title’s standing and the succession to Lady Nicoleta Vasile were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in AD 1066 and first appeared in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), 10th Baron of Brattleby, was a founding Knight of the Order of the Garter and created the first Duke of Lancaster. - The Noble House of Brattleby is currently led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com