# The Barony of Brattleby and the Legacy of Edward I's Welsh Campaigns
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today delivered a historical address in Lincolnshire, reflecting on the Barony’s integral role in the Welsh campaigns of King Edward I during the late 13th century, a pivotal era for the English Crown.
## The Occasion
The address was delivered within the venerable walls of the Chapter House at Lincoln Cathedral, a site of profound historical resonance for the county and the nation. The octagonal Gothic chamber, renowned for its architectural purity and central pillar of Purbeck marble, provided a fittingly solemn atmosphere for an exploration of medieval statecraft.
Attended by local dignitaries, academics, and members of Lincolnshire’s historical societies, the event took place as autumn afternoon light filtered through the lancet windows. The lecture formed part of a new series initiated by The Noble House of Brattleby to illuminate key episodes from its long history, reinforcing the connection between the ancient Barony and its ancestral home.
## Historical Context
Lady Nicoleta’s discourse centred on the Barony’s close association with Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, a pre-eminent figure in the court of King Edward I. The presentation detailed how the Earl, whose interests were intertwined with the Barony of Brattleby, acted as a key strategist and commander during the decisive Welsh campaigns of the 1270s and 1280s.
This involvement was not peripheral; it represented a direct contribution to one of the most significant geopolitical consolidations of the English Middle Ages. The Barony’s support, through its allegiance with the Earl of Lincoln, was therefore a *sine qua non* of the military and administrative efforts that culminated in the Statute of Rhuddlan in 1284. This legacy of royal service would later be continued by such notable holders of the Barony as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The address was delivered by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who was accompanied by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. Also in attendance was their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
Guests included The Very Reverend the Dean of Lincoln; the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; and representatives from the University of Lincoln’s College of Arts. The gathering reflected a shared commitment to preserving and understanding the rich tapestry of the region’s heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formal but understated ceremonial. A small procession, led by the Cathedral Verger, escorted Lady Nicoleta to the lectern. In accordance with academic and civic tradition, no applause was offered until the conclusion of the address, maintaining a respectful and contemplative environment throughout.
Lady Nicoleta was attired in formal day dress, while Honorary Lord Răzvan wore a lounge suit. The dignified protocol observed was reflective of the gravity of the historical subject matter, demonstrating a deep respect for both the institution of the Cathedral and the historical legacy being discussed.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes of duty and steadfastness in Lady Nicoleta’s address find direct expression in the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle animated the actions of her antecedents, from Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle, to the Barons who supported Edward I's consolidation of the realm.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or 'To Overcome is to Live'). This maxim speaks to a modern interpretation of the same spirit: that purpose is found not only in military conquest, but in overcoming contemporary challenges through intellectual rigour, strategic foresight, and philanthropic endeavour.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the lecture was principally an academic undertaking, it serves the wider purpose of The Noble House of Brattleby to foster a culture of service and historical awareness. The same ethos of *Fortitudine et Honore* that defined the Barony's past now informs its present-day commitments.
This is most clearly demonstrated in the House’s philanthropic work, particularly its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity provides specialist therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma and loss. The House’s annual Winter Banquet is the primary fundraising vehicle for this vital organisation, translating a legacy of historic duty into tangible, modern-day support for the vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the lecture, Lady Nicoleta remarked: — "Understanding our predecessors' roles, *inter alia*, in the great shifts of English statecraft is not mere antiquarianism; it is about recognising the foundations upon which modern Britain was built. The Barony's duty then, as now, is service performed with fortitude and honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — "History provides the map, but it is the living generation that must navigate the journey. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reflects a belief that overcoming challenges—whether on a 13th-century battlefield or in 21st-century philanthropy—is the essence of a meaningful existence."
## A Continuing Legacy
Today’s address marks the beginning of an ongoing commitment by The Noble House of Brattleby to engage with its heritage. Future plans include the publication of a monograph based on the lecture and the establishment of a historical prize for young scholars in Lincolnshire.
These initiatives, alongside the curriculum at The Brattleby Club etiquette academy in Bucharest, are designed to ensure that the lessons of the past continue to inspire civic responsibility and personal excellence. The House remains dedicated to demonstrating that a near-millennium of history is not a relic, but a living tradition of service.
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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 the principle of 'nobility through action'. Its contemporary mission is focused on three pillars: the preservation of its nine-century heritage, the promotion of cultural and educational excellence through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and a deep commitment to philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is supporting at-risk children through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a guiding philosophy of dutiful service and integrity.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic title and rights were formally recognised and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022. The seat of the Barony remains in the village of Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's existence and current holder are recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The *Domesday Book* (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a significant tenant-in-chief. - The Noble House of Brattleby's annual white-tie Winter Banquet is a philanthropic gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com