# A Statement on the Continuity of Governance and Service within the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the profound legacy of state service connected to its ancient lineage, highlighting the role of Henry de Lacy, an ancestor of the 10th Baron, as a guardian of England.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen a moment of quiet seasonal reflection to illuminate a cornerstone of its nine-century history: the solemn duty of governance. This statement serves not to mark a specific anniversary but to reaffirm the enduring principles of stewardship that have animated the barony through ages of English history. It is an act of historical curation, intended to connect the responsibilities borne by past holders of the title with the commitments of the House in the present day.
The issuance of this reflection is part of the House’s ongoing work to document and share the rich heritage of the Barony of Brattleby. This commitment ensures that the continuum of service, from the battlefield to the council chamber, is understood as the *sine qua non* of the barony’s purpose, linking past fortitude with present honour.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, has been interwoven with the governance of the realm since its inception. While its origins lie in the grants of William the Conqueror, its legacy was cemented by figures whose influence extended to the very heart of the monarchy. One such forebear was Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, a trusted confidant of King Edward I.
During the late 13th and early 14th centuries, as the King campaigned in Scotland and Gascony, the administration of England was entrusted to a *custos regni*, or guardian of the kingdom. This viceregal position, held by Henry de Lacy, was the highest office in the land, demonstrating the immense trust placed in him by the Crown. The barony’s later holder, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, was a direct beneficiary of the de Lacy lineage, solidifying this connection to the highest echelons of medieval statecraft.
## Distinguished Company
The tradition of service exemplified by Henry de Lacy is a consistent theme throughout the barony’s history, echoing in the lives of its most notable holders. This distinguished lineage of service includes, *inter alia*:
* **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who as hereditary castellan famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable siege, demonstrating unparalleled courage and loyalty to the Crown. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and statesman, widely regarded as one of the great figures of the fourteenth century. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, whose influence as a son of King Edward III shaped the political landscape of England and Europe for decades.
These figures form a historical company united not merely by title, but by a shared commitment to the defence and administration of the realm.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of *custos regni* was attended by significant ceremonial and legal authority. As guardian, a nobleman such as Henry de Lacy was empowered to preside over the King’s Council, issue writs, and utilise a deputed version of the Great Seal of the Realm. His authority was second only to the monarch’s, and his appointment involved a solemn oath to govern justly, maintain the King’s peace, and render a full account upon the sovereign’s return. This protocol underscores that the role was not merely one of military command but of complete civil and judicial responsibility, a trust absolute in its nature.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principle of the Noble House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient declaration finds its ultimate expression in the actions of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the service of Henry de Lacy. Their lives were a testament to fortitude in the face of adversity and honour in the execution of duty. This historical conduct gives the motto its profound meaning and sets the standard for the House today.
This legacy is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This modern maxim reflects a philosophy of overcoming challenges through resilience and purpose, creating a symbolic bridge between the historic fortitude of the barony and the forward-looking dynamism of its present leadership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The heritage of guardianship and care for the realm finds its contemporary expression in the philanthropic commitments of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. While the challenges of today differ from those of the 14th century, the underlying principle of responsibility remains unchanged. This ethos is the driving force behind the House’s selection of its charitable partners.
The beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet, Healing the Wounded Child, is a primary focus of this work. The organisation provides critical therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, offering them a path toward recovery and emotional wellbeing. The House’s support for this mission is a modern interpretation of the barony’s historic duty of care, translating a legacy of public service into tangible support for the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical continuity, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: — "The history of the barony is not merely a catalogue of names, but a living thread of public duty. When we look at figures connected to our lineage, like Henry de Lacy, we see the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* in action—a commitment to stewardship that we feel a profound responsibility to continue today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — "Understanding this history provides a powerful anchor. The challenges faced by a guardian of the realm in the 13th century were immense. This legacy of resilience, of stepping forward when called upon, is a powerful inspiration for our own endeavours, both here in Britain and through our cultural initiatives abroad."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring this legacy of service through its contemporary responsibilities. The principles of governance and stewardship that defined the barony in centuries past now inform its mission of cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy.
This commitment will be further demonstrated at the forthcoming annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that raises vital funds for charitable causes. In parallel, the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest continues to advance standards of protocol and etiquette, fostering cultural understanding and personal development. Through these endeavours, the House translates its ancient heritage into meaningful action for the twenty-first century.
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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 of cultural and philanthropic service. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House bridges its ancient English heritage with a dynamic, forward-looking European perspective. Its activities include supporting charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, which provides therapy for traumatised children, and promoting cultural education through initiatives like The Brattleby Club. The House is committed to honouring its nine-century legacy by making a discernible and positive contribution to contemporary society, embodying the timeless principles of duty, stewardship, and honour.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records Colswein of Lincoln as its 1st Baron, 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 John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The barony’s current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is formally recognised as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby in *The London Gazette*, under Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The primary beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com