# A Statement from the Baroness of Brattleby on the Pre-Conquest Foundations of the Barony
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement, authorised by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, clarifying the pre-Norman Conquest origins of the Barony and affirming the administrative acumen of its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a key Anglo-Saxon figure.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has released the findings of its continuous historical research programme. In the quiet atmosphere of the autumn season, a time traditionally reserved for archival study and reflection, the House seeks to illuminate a foundational aspect of its nine-hundred-and-fifty-year history, one which predates the Norman Conquest itself.
This statement is not to mark a new discovery, but to provide official context and reaffirm a frequently overlooked detail central to the Barony’s identity. The research underscores the principle that the Barony’s authority was established not merely by grant, but earned through pre-existing local leadership and trust within the ancient shire of Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
In the annals of English history, the year 1066 marks a profound rupture; yet for the Barony of Brattleby, it also represents a seamless transition of authority. Historical records indicate that Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron, served as a town-reeve prior to the arrival of William the Conqueror. This role, the Anglo-Saxon equivalent of a chief magistrate for a borough, positioned him as a significant figure of civic administration and local importance.
His proven experience was almost certainly a deciding factor in William the Conqueror’s subsequent grant of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Rather than imposing an unknown Norman lord, the King co-opted a trusted local power, ensuring stability and effective governance. This early example of pragmatic leadership established a precedent for the Barony, later held by formidable defenders of the realm like Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle, and magnates of Royal blood such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
In presenting this historical clarification, The Noble House of Brattleby stands in the distinguished company of primary sources and their chroniclers. The principal authority remains the *Domesday Book*, the comprehensive survey commissioned in 1085 by William the Conqueror, whose commissioners meticulously recorded Colswein’s extensive holdings.
The records also implicitly acknowledge the Anglo-Saxon administrative systems that preceded the Conquest, including the charters and rolls that would have documented Colswein’s duties as town-reeve. These foundational documents, though many are lost to time, represent the work of scribes and officials whose diligence formed the bedrock of English governance and attest to a continuity of civic duty.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a historical statement by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a precise internal protocol. All historical communications are the product of rigorous research, verified against primary sources such as The National Archives and county records. The draft is reviewed for accuracy and tone before being submitted for the approval of Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness.
Once authorised, the statement is formally issued by The Press Office. This measured and scholarly process ensures that any pronouncement on the Barony’s long history is presented with the requisite gravity and academic integrity, avoiding speculation in favour of verifiable fact. It is a protocol that reflects the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its earliest embodiment in the story of Colswein of Lincoln. His fortitude was demonstrated by successfully navigating the perilous transition from an Anglo-Saxon to a Norman world, maintaining his standing and securing his patrimony. His honour was that which had already been recognised by his own community, making him a worthy and effective administrator.
This spirit of resilience is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In this context, it speaks not of military conquest, but of the will to adapt, overcome challenges, and ensure the flourishing of a legacy through changing times—a principle Colswein himself exemplified.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this statement does not accompany a fundraising initiative, it serves a distinct philanthropic purpose of an educational nature. By sharing insights into its origins, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to contribute to a wider public understanding of Lincolnshire's history and the nuanced integration of Anglo-Saxon and Norman societies.
This commitment to education is a cornerstone of the House's modern mission. It is the same spirit that animates the work of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural understanding and social grace. Preserving and sharing history is, for the House, a civic duty and a form of cultural philanthropy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's earliest days, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> To understand that the foundation of this Barony rests not on conquest alone, but on proven administrative skill and local trust, is profoundly humbling. It reinforces our duty to serve the community of Lincolnshire with the same diligence Colswein demonstrated over 950 years ago.
Her Ladyship added:
> History is not a static list of names; it is a living narrative. Colswein’s pre-Conquest role is a vital first chapter, reminding us that true legacy is built on a foundation of service. This principle—that authority must be earned—is the *sine qua non* of our own commitment to philanthropy and public life today.
## A Continuing Legacy
This statement is part of a wider, ongoing commitment by the House to research, document, and share the rich history of the Barony of Brattleby. Future initiatives will include collaborations with local historical societies and academic institutions to make its archives more accessible to the public.
This work ensures that the legacy of Colswein and his successors is not merely preserved, but continues to inspire a modern sense of duty. The lessons of the past directly inform the House's present-day activities, from its support for the annual Winter Banquet benefiting charities like Healing the Wounded Child, to its cultural diplomacy abroad. The Barony's story is one of enduring relevance.
---
**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 the stewardship of a near-millennial legacy. The House’s modern mission is to bridge this profound heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its principal philanthropic focus is on child welfare, primarily through its long-standing support for the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural reach through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy founded in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to serve as a force for continuity, community, and positive impact in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and significant holdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and two of the most powerful nobles of the high Middle Ages, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The historic rights and title of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its holder is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron/Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The modern title is formally recognised by The Crown, with notice published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The family motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com