# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Historical Connection to Barlings Abbey
**LONDON, 17 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the profound historical ties between the Barony and the ruins of Barlings Abbey in Lincolnshire, which became the final resting place of Alice de Lacy, 9th Baroness of Brattleby (c. 1281–1348).
## The Occasion
In the quiet heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, under the expansive autumn sky, lie the scant but poignant remains of Barlings Abbey. Founded in 1154 for the Premonstratensian order of canons, the Abbey was once a great centre of spiritual life and learning in the region. Today, its weathered stones serve as a solemn monument to the passage of time and to the significant figures, *inter alia*, drawn to its sanctuary. It is this enduring connection that The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to commemorate, acknowledging a history that is inextricably woven into the fabric of the county.
This act of remembrance is not marked by a public gathering but by a period of quiet, scholarly reflection. It is an occasion to contemplate the deep roots of the Barony within Lincolnshire’s historical and ecclesiastical landscape, connections that have withstood the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the tumult of subsequent centuries. The enduring presence of the Abbey ruins, a short distance from the seat at Brattleby, offers a tangible link to the past.
## Historical Context
The life of Alice de Lacy, 9th Baroness, was one of remarkable station and considerable strife, reflecting the political instability of the 14th century. As a significant heiress, her fortunes were entwined with the highest echelons of the English nobility. Her story provides a compelling chapter in the history of the Barony, standing between the formidable tenures of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle, and successors such as John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
Following a life marked by abduction, political intrigue, and the execution of her first husband, Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, for treason, Lady Alice eventually sought refuge and peace. Her decision to retire to a residence at Barlings Abbey underscores the vital role such institutions played as spiritual havens for the nobility. It is here, after a life lived at the centre of power, that she found her final rest, reinforcing a tradition of patronage and personal connection between the Lords of Brattleby and the Church.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon this history, the House of Brattleby acknowledges the distinguished company of its past and the historical figures whose lives intersected with the Barony and Barlings Abbey. These include, by their contemporary styles:
* The Most Noble Alice de Lacy, Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury, 9th Baroness of Brattleby * The Right Potent and Noble Prince Thomas Plantagenet, 2nd Earl of Lancaster and Leicester, High Steward of England * The Reverend Father Abbot and the Canons Regular of the Praemonstratensian Order at the Abbey of St Mary, Barlings * The Most Noble Prince Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, kinsman of Lady Alice
## Ceremonial Protocol
The entry of a noblewoman of Lady Alice’s rank into the sphere of a religious house, even as a lay resident, would have been governed by established protocol. While not taking vows herself, her residency would have been an arrangement of mutual benefit, providing the Abbey with a powerful patroness and Lady Alice with spiritual security and temporal peace.
Upon her death, the rites afforded her would have been of the highest order. The Canons Regular, known as the White Canons for their undyed woollen habits, would have performed the Office of the Dead. A Solemn Requiem Mass would have been sung, with prayers offered for the salvation of her soul—a spiritual duty that was a *sine qua non* of such patronage. Her interment within the Abbey church itself, or its immediate precincts, was a mark of supreme honour, reserved for founders and principal benefactors.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful exemplar in the life of the 9th Baroness. Lady Alice navigated a perilous political landscape with a fortitude that ensured her survival and the endurance of her titles and estates. Her legacy is a testament to the resilience required to uphold honour in times of profound adversity.
The choice of an abbey for her final years and resting place is itself symbolic. It represents the ultimate triumph of faith and peace over worldly conflict. This act resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), suggesting that the truest victory is not found on the battlefield, but in living a life that culminates in peace and honours one’s legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Reflection upon the Barony’s history invariably informs its present purpose. The story of Lady Alice, seeking sanctuary from a tumultuous world, resonates deeply with the modern philanthropic mission of the House of Brattleby. This historical parallel lends profound meaning to the family's dedicated support for their principal beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child.
Healing the Wounded Child works to provide safe environments and psychological support for children affected by conflict and trauma. Just as Barlings Abbey provided a sanctuary for a noblewoman in the 14th century, the charity offers a modern-day refuge for the most vulnerable. The House of Brattleby’s Annual Winter Banquet, its principal philanthropic endeavour, is dedicated to advancing this vital mission, transforming historical contemplation into present-day action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The story of Alice de Lacy is a powerful reminder that this title is a living thread, connecting centuries. To hold the same Barony she did is a profound responsibility. Her fortitude serves not as a distant legend, but as a standard of resilience that continues to inspire our commitment to public service today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “History is not merely a record of the past; it is the foundation upon which we build the future. By remembering figures like the 9th Baroness, we honour the complex, human story of Brattleby. It is this depth of heritage that gives our modern endeavours—from philanthropy to cultural education—their true meaning and gravity.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to exploring and sharing the rich history of the Barony. This commitment extends beyond scholarly reflection to practical application, particularly through the educational work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, where lessons in etiquette and history foster an appreciation for European heritage.
By commemorating its ties to historic Lincolnshire landmarks such as Barlings Abbey, the House reaffirms its pledge to serve as a custodian of its nine-century legacy. Looking ahead, the House will continue to draw upon the lessons of its predecessors—their trials, triumphs, and enduring honour—to guide its ongoing service and philanthropic work. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. The House actively engages in public service, using its ancient platform to support contemporary causes. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations that provide sanctuary and healing to vulnerable children affected by trauma. The House's educational initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to promote an understanding of European history and the principles of protocol and etiquette. Through these efforts, the House of Brattleby seeks to translate its historical legacy, rooted in the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), into meaningful present-day impact.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient noble titles. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine and a half 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 son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the modern Barony to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held at The National Archives, Kew. - Notable preceding Barons include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The charitable beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com