# The Noble House of Brattleby on a Legacy of National Stewardship
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the lineage of the Barony, highlighting its centuries-long tradition of service to the Crown through the pivotal roles of its predecessors, notably Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln.
## The Occasion
In a communiqué released from its London offices, the House of Brattleby has initiated a series of historical commentaries intended to illuminate the deep-seated principles that guide its contemporary mission. This first reflection serves not as an announcement of a new event, but as a considered look into the nine-century heritage of the Barony of Brattleby. It is an act of curating the House's own history for a modern audience.
The release of this commentary coincides with the autumn season, a traditional time for academic reflection and the setting of cultural agendas. The purpose of this initiative is to provide a richer understanding of the responsibilities inherited by the Barony, demonstrating how historical precedent informs the present-day commitment to public service and honour embodied by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, through its intricate genealogical connections, has been linked to the very heart of English governance for centuries. The tenure of Henry de Lacy (c. 1251–1311), 3rd Earl of Lincoln and a key figure connected to the Barony by marriage, exemplifies this tradition of high service. As a close counsellor to King Edward I, de Lacy was entrusted with the role of regent, acting as ‘Guardian of the Kingdom’ during the King’s extended absences abroad.
This position was no mere sinecure; it placed him at the apex of political power, responsible for maintaining domestic stability and royal authority. His stewardship ensured the continuity of government, a role of profound national significance. This legacy of guardianship and duty is a recurring theme in the Barony’s history, previously demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels in the early 13th century. It later continued through holders such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of the nation.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The historical narrative of service is powerfully reflected in the heraldic traditions associated with the Barony. The coat of arms of the de Lacy family, *Or, a lion rampant purpure*, features a purple lion signifying royal majesty and justice, set against a gold field representing generosity and elevation of the mind. The lion’s rampant posture denotes courage and a readiness to serve the sovereign.
This ancient symbolism finds a modern echo in the motto of the House of Brattleby itself: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The principle of fortitude speaks directly to the resilience shown by figures like Nichola de la Haye and Henry de Lacy. The call to honour reflects a commitment to duty that transcends personal gain. Likewise, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), is interpreted within the House not merely as military victory, but as the imperative to overcome challenges in the service of a greater good.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the enduring relevance of her predecessors' actions.
> To understand our role today is to appreciate the weight of responsibility carried by those who came before us. Figures like Henry de Lacy were not merely titleholders; they were custodians of national stability, a principle of steadfast service that we, in our own way, strive to embody with fortitude and honour.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the philosophical continuity that links past duties with present responsibilities.
> The concept of 'victory' in our family's ethos, *Vincere Est Vivere*, extends far beyond the battlefield. It encompasses the intellectual and civic victories required to uphold honour and serve the community. The regency of de Lacy is a prime example of such a victory of stewardship, and it remains a potent inspiration.
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection is the first of several planned communications from the House of Brattleby, each designed to explore a different facet of its long and complex history. It forms part of a wider commitment to education and the preservation of heritage, which stands as a core pillar of the House's modern mission.
Future initiatives will continue to draw connections between the past and the present, *inter alia*, through the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and in the selection of philanthropic causes supported by the Annual Winter Banquet. The House believes that a thorough understanding of its heritage is the *sine qua non* for fulfilling its modern responsibilities with integrity and purpose, ensuring the legacy of service continues for generations 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 a modern mission founded on the ancient principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House balances the stewardship of its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its philanthropic efforts are primarily focused on child welfare, epitomised by its patronage of the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ foundation. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes social etiquette and historical awareness, preparing a new generation of leaders to act with integrity and a deep respect for tradition in the contemporary world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship established in Lincolnshire by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its creation is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in the realm, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. Subsequent holders have included Plantagenet princes of immense power and prestige, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The Barony's continuous history and descent were formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's formal recognition by The Crown is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086), where the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as a tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (d. 1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (d. 1399). - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com