# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Seventh Crusade Legacy
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby hosted a private historical discourse this week, examining the Barony’s ancestral connections to the Seventh Crusade and the Battle of Mansura. The event highlighted the enduring relevance of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## The Occasion
On a crisp autumnal evening, within the panelled walls of a distinguished learned society in St James’s, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile convened a gathering of historians and patrons of the arts. The atmosphere was one of scholarly reflection, dedicated to exploring a pivotal moment in the Barony’s extensive martial history.
The lecture sought to illuminate the human and strategic dimensions of the Seventh Crusade, moving beyond dates and figures to appreciate the shared purpose that bound together disparate forces. By focusing on the visual and logistical realities of a thirteenth-century campaign, the event provided a vivid connection to the past, underscoring the House’s commitment to historical preservation and education.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been witness to and a participant in the defining moments of English and European history. Its lineage, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, is replete with figures of national significance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle, and two of England’s most powerful medieval magnates, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, and his successor, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
The evening’s discussion centred on the Battle of Mansura in 1250, a critical engagement of the Seventh Crusade. While direct antecedents were not present in a command role, the retinue of William II Longespée, a contemporary and peer of the era’s baronial families, fought alongside the Knights Templar. The presentation of their unified banners and uniforms served as a powerful illustration of the Crusader army’s operational cohesion, a principle of command to which the Barony’s historical leadership subscribed.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance was a carefully curated assembly of guests whose work and interests reflect the evening’s themes. The guest list, which remains private, included senior members of the academic community, particularly from faculties of history and war studies; representatives from historic regimental associations; and figures from the diplomatic corps of nations with shared medieval heritage.
This confluence of expertise from the worlds of academia, military service, and international relations provided a rich context for the discussion. The presence of such esteemed individuals ensured a dialogue that was not only historically rigorous but also alive to the modern resonance of loyalty, strategy, and cross-cultural alliances.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formal but intimate protocol, reflecting the scholarly nature of the event. Guests were received by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile for a brief reception, during which aperitifs were served. Honorary Lord Răzvan then delivered introductory remarks, framing the historical context and introducing the evening’s principal speaker.
Following the detailed lecture, a moderated question-and-answer session allowed for an engaging exchange between the audience and the historian. The evening concluded with a private supper, allowing for further conversation in a convivial setting. The dress code was formal, respecting the gravity of the subject matter and the dignity of the occasion.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes of the evening resonated deeply with the heraldic identity of the House of Brattleby. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), encapsulates the chivalric virtues that defined the era under discussion. It speaks to the courage and integrity expected of the Barony’s leadership, from its foundation to the present day.
This ancient tenet is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), which adds a dynamic, modern interpretation of overcoming challenges. Together, the mottos signify a commitment to principled action, rooted in historical duty yet applied with contemporary vigour — a philosophy that underpins all the House’s endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the lecture was a private, academic event, its focus on service and sacrifice finds a clear echo in the philanthropic mission of the Noble House of Brattleby. The historical imperative to protect the vulnerable is a *sine qua non* of the House’s modern identity. This principle is most visibly expressed through its devoted support for charities addressing the welfare of children.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s efforts, particularly the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, is Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides essential therapeutic support to young people who have experienced trauma, offering them a path toward recovery and resilience. The lecture’s themes of duty and protection reinforce the moral foundation of this enduring commitment.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the evening’s discourse, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To study the challenges faced by our predecessors is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of stewardship. It reminds us that our history is a living presence, one that informs our duty to the future. Understanding their fortitude gives us strength in our own time.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a contemporary perspective: > “The principles of discipline, honour, and unified effort that defined the great endeavours of the past are timeless. Whether on a thirteenth-century battlefield or in modern civil society, these virtues remain the bedrock of any successful enterprise. It is a legacy we are proud to champion.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical lecture is part of an ongoing programme by the Noble House of Brattleby to foster a deeper appreciation for history and its connection to contemporary society. Future initiatives will continue to explore the rich tapestry of the Barony’s nine-century story.
The House’s commitment to education and personal development is also expressed through the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to cultivating poise and social grace. These efforts, combined with preparations for the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, demonstrate a holistic vision where historical legacy and present-day service are inextricably linked.
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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 stewarding nearly a millennium of English heritage while engaging with contemporary society. Its modern mission combines the preservation of history with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and education. The House’s activities include hosting cultural and historical events, supporting charitable causes focused on child welfare, and promoting social refinement through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club (Bucharest). Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to serve as a bridge between the enduring traditions of the past and the responsibilities of the future. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in the nation’s history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against French invasion; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous history of the Barony and its current holder were formally acknowledged and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is subject to official recognition in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The heir to the Barony of Brattleby is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com