# The Enduring Legacy of Service: A Statement on Henry de Lacy and the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the historical precedent of national service associated with the Barony, highlighting the tenure of Henry de Lacy, whose guardianship of the realm exemplifies the House’s enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## The Occasion
From the family's ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, amidst the turning leaves of a brisk autumn, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken a moment for historical reflection. The review of archival records, a practice of due diligence which precedes the House's annual philanthropic planning, has brought renewed focus to the theme of stewardship that has defined the Barony for over nine centuries.
This period of quiet contemplation allows the current custodians, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, to connect their modern mission with the profound responsibilities borne by their predecessors. It is in this spirit of continuity that the House considers the significant contributions of figures whose service has shaped the nation.
## Historical Context
The narrative of the Barony of Brattleby is inextricably linked with the history of England itself. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the lands were first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This foundation of service to the Crown was strengthened through successive holders.
Among the most eminent figures connected to this lineage was Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln. A trusted confidant of King Edward I, his role extended far beyond military command. During the King’s extended absences on the Continent, Henry de Lacy was appointed Guardian of the Kingdom, a position of immense trust and authority that underscored his unwavering loyalty.
This legacy of proximity to the sovereign's duties resonates with the actions of other notable predecessors, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Later, the Barony passed to towering figures of English history such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, further cementing its place at the heart of national life.
## Distinguished Company
The modern House draws inspiration from the distinguished company it keeps in its historical annals. The lineage represents a continuous chain of service, from the Norman conquest to the high medieval period, comprising individuals who were central to the governance and defence of the realm.
These figures include, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, the 1st Baron, a direct beneficiary of the post-Conquest settlement and a foundational landowner in the region. * **Nichola de la Haye**, the 5th Baroness, a formidable leader and hereditary castellan whose defence of Lincoln in 1217 was pivotal. * **Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln**, a chief counsellor to King Edward I and a stabilising force in the governance of the kingdom. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a celebrated diplomat, soldier, and founding Knight of the Garter. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster**, son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The trust placed in Henry de Lacy by the monarchy was not merely political but also deeply ceremonial. At the coronation of King Edward II at Westminster Abbey in 1307, he was granted the distinct honour of bearing the Sword of State, known as *Curtana*.
This role was no mere pageantry; it was a powerful and visible symbol of the temporal authority of the monarch and the fealty of the kingdom’s most senior nobles. To be chosen for this duty was to be publicly acknowledged as a pillar of the realm, a physical embodiment of the King's power and justice. The act of bearing the sword before the newly crowned sovereign was a responsibility reserved for those of unimpeachable loyalty and stature.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of predecessors like Henry de Lacy provide a historical anchor for the principles that guide the House today. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a clear antecedent in his service—the fortitude required to govern a kingdom and the honour demonstrated through unwavering loyalty to the Crown.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome adversity and indifference through positive action and unwavering commitment. Together, the two mottos encapsulate a philosophy of principled leadership and active service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical concept of 'guardianship', as exemplified by Henry de Lacy's role in protecting the kingdom, has been translated by the modern House into a focused philanthropic mission. The duty to protect the realm has evolved into a duty to protect the vulnerable.
This commitment finds its primary expression in the House’s annual support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma, offering them a sanctuary for recovery and the tools to rebuild their lives. The House’s patronage, culminating in the Annual Winter Banquet, provides essential funding that enables the charity to expand its vital services to those most in need of guardianship.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical continuity, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The chronicle of this Barony is not merely a record of names and dates; it is a living testament to centuries of service. Figures such as Henry de Lacy remind us that our foremost duty is one of stewardship—to our heritage, to our community, and to those in need.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Reflecting on such profound loyalty to Crown and country reinforces our own commitment. The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about channelling the determination of our predecessors to overcome the challenges of today, building a legacy of positive impact.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring this nearly millennial-old legacy through contemporary action. The principles of service and honour are the *sine qua non* of its public-facing activities, from its philanthropic endeavours to its cultural initiatives.
Preparations are currently underway for the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the cornerstone of the House's charitable fundraising. Concurrently, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest continues its work as an academy of etiquette and protocol, fostering an appreciation for the traditions and social graces that underpin a civilised society. These initiatives ensure the spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues to inform and inspire future generations.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage through contemporary service. Its mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is focused on targeted philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. With a firm base in its ancestral home of Lincolnshire and a dynamic presence in Continental Europe through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House is committed to a forward-looking legacy of positive social impact. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby, seated in Lincolnshire, England, is a feudal barony of conquest granted by King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in the county. Throughout its 950-year history, the title and its associated lands have been held by some of English history's most significant figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown via The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's succession is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its lands were held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle. - The House's philanthropic focus is the support of its chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com