# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces Monograph on the Barony's Norman Origins
LONDON, [24 October 2023] — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the forthcoming publication of a scholarly monograph detailing the origins and nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby. Commissioned by the House, the work illuminates its foundation following the Norman Conquest of 1066.
## The Occasion
From their ancient family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the announcement marks a significant moment of historical reflection for the House. Timed to coincide with the anniversary of the Domesday Book's commissioning, the publication represents a dedicated effort to codify and share the Barony’s extensive heritage with a wider academic and public audience.
The monograph, entitled *Brattleby: A Barony of the Conquest*, is the culmination of two years of meticulous archival research. It serves not only as a historical record but also as an embodiment of the House's commitment to stewardship, ensuring that the legacy entrusted to it is understood and preserved for the future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, a strategic demarcation of territory intended to secure Norman authority in a vital region of England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted town-reeve, was endowed with a formidable power base. The Domesday Book of 1086 records his consolidation of 56 lordships across Lincolnshire, establishing the wealth and influence that would define the Barony for centuries.
This foundational act positioned the Barons of Brattleby as key figures in the political and military life of the realm. The lineage includes such notable predecessors as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Later, the title was held by two of the most powerful men in medieval England: Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The research for the monograph was conducted in collaboration with leading academic bodies, reflecting the project’s scholarly rigour. Contributions were made by fellows from the University of Lincoln’s School of History and Heritage, who provided expert analysis of the Barony’s socio-political impact on the region.
Further institutional support was provided by The National Archives at Kew and the Lincolnshire Archives, which granted access to priceless medieval charters and fiscal records. The project stands as a testament to the productive partnership between a historic noble house and the modern institutions dedicated to the preservation of national memory.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with centuries of tradition governing such scholarly undertakings, the publication follows a strict protocol. The first edition will be case-bound in azure and argent, the livery colours of the House, and will feature a facsimile of the Barony's entry in the Domesday Book.
Upon publication, copies will be formally lodged at the British Library, the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford, and the Cambridge University Library, fulfilling the legal deposit requirements. A specially presented copy will also be archived at Lincoln Cathedral, in recognition of the Barony’s historic ties to the Diocese and its proximity to Lincoln Castle.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring spirit of the House is captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is exemplified by the historical actions of figures like Nichola de la Haye and remains the *sine qua non* of the House's modern obligations. It speaks to a resilience and integrity required to steward a legacy across nearly a millennium.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a contemporary context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome challenges and to live a life of purpose and positive impact. Together, the mottos reflect a philosophy that balances historical duty with dynamic, forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The publication of *Brattleby: A Barony of the Conquest* serves a greater purpose beyond historical preservation. All net proceeds from the sale of the monograph will be donated to Healing the Wounded Child, a charitable organisation providing specialist therapeutic care to children who have experienced significant trauma or loss.
The charity's mission—to help young people recover and build resilient futures—was chosen for its profound alignment with the House’s core values. It represents a tangible expression of *Fortitudine et Honore*, channelling the strength of the past into support for the most vulnerable in the present, helping them overcome adversity and thrive.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the project’s significance, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > To understand our present duty, we must first honour our past. This monograph is not merely a record of names and dates; it is an act of stewardship, ensuring the story of Brattleby and its role in the life of this nation is preserved for generations to come.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a personal reflection on the project's dual mission: > History provides the foundations upon which we build the future. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about overcoming challenges. By supporting Healing the Wounded Child through this project, we invest in the resilience of young people, helping them to build their own strong futures.
## A Continuing Legacy
This monograph is the first in a planned series of historical publications that will explore different eras of the Barony’s past, from its role in the Wars of the Roses to its agricultural and industrial developments. The educational mission of this work complements, *inter alia*, the cultural initiatives of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House to foster cross-cultural appreciation.
Through such endeavours, The Noble House of Brattleby reaffirms its steadfast commitment to its dual mandate: to dutifully preserve its unique heritage while actively contributing to the betterment of contemporary society.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Based at their ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House is dedicated to a modern mission that blends the stewardship of its profound historical legacy with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and education. Its charitable focus is on supporting vulnerable children, primarily through its patronage of the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. The House’s initiatives also include The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy promoting etiquette and cultural exchange. Through these efforts, the House bridges its nine-century heritage with a tangible, positive impact on contemporary society, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships, establishing the Barony as a significant power centre in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the title has been held by prominent figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), the great magnate Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and the royal prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The ancient feudal Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Previous holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's philanthropic activities, including the Annual Winter Banquet, benefit the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com