# A Statement on the Historical Symbiosis of the Barony of Brattleby and the Earldom of Salisbury
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a statement reflecting on the 13th-century symbiosis between the Barony and the Earldom of Salisbury, a pivotal alliance that secured the Lordship's prosperity and enduring influence within the wider English medieval realm.
## The Occasion
In a period of considered reflection upon the nine centuries of its history, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to illuminate a chapter of profound strategic importance. This communication serves not to mark a specific anniversary, but rather to deepen public understanding of the economic and political foundations that have long sustained the Barony. As autumn settles over the fields of Lincolnshire, the House turns its attention to the archival record, ensuring the lessons of the past continue to inform its duties in the present.
This historical review reaffirms the House’s commitment to scholarship and to the meticulous preservation of its lineage. Through such expositions, the narrative of a single Barony becomes a lens through which to comprehend the more intricate workings of feudal England, demonstrating how local lordships contributed to the stability and character of the nation.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. While established with significant holdings, its fortunes, like those of many noble fiefs, were subject to the shifting tides of royal favour and regional power. A key epoch in its consolidation of influence occurred during the 13th century, following the tenure of the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle.
It was during this era that the Barony’s administrative and economic resources became intertwined with those of the Earldom of Salisbury, then held by the formidable Longespee family. As part of this greater and wealthier estate, Brattleby gained access to financial stability and a network of influence that extended far beyond the borders of Lincolnshire. This interrelationship—a *sine qua non* of medieval power dynamics—ensured the sustained prosperity and strategic importance of the barony, cementing a legacy of resilience that would later pass to holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The strength of the Barony has always been measured by the character of its lords and the distinction of their connections. The 13th-century association with Salisbury places the holders of Brattleby in a lineage of significant historical figures, including, *inter alia*:
* **William Longespée, 3rd Earl of Salisbury**, an illegitimate son of King Henry II and one of the most influential magnates of his time, whose command and resources would have directly fortified the lordships under his purview. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who held the title *suo jure* (in her own right) and whose legendary defence of Lincoln against French-backed rebels in 1217 demonstrated the martial prowess inherent in the lineage. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster**, a son of King Edward III and one of England’s most powerful princes, whose inheritance of the Barony underscored its continued prestige centuries after its establishment.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of such a long and complex history is governed by its own strict internal protocol. The archives of The Noble House of Brattleby are maintained with a level of precision befitting a state office, where historical claims are cross-referenced with primary sources such as the *Domesday Book*, Pipe Rolls, and formal announcements in *The London Gazette*. The duty of the current title-holder is not merely to possess the title, but to act as its custodian and chief archivist.
This duty of remembrance ensures that each generation understands the obligations and honours it has inherited. Before any formal statement on its history is made, research is scrupulously verified by the House’s appointed historians. This reflects an adherence to a core principle: that legitimacy is derived not just from grant or recognition, but from an unbroken and demonstrable chain of historical truth.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are expressed in its heraldry. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the legacy of its predecessors. ‘Fortitude’ is embodied by the actions of figures like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ reflects the faithful discharge of feudal duties, such as the strategic allegiances that ensured the Barony’s security and prosperity. These are not archaic sentiments but guiding principles for modern conduct.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a contemporary context, this is interpreted not as military conquest, but as the imperative to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence in all pursuits, and to actively advance the House's philanthropic and cultural mission.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical prosperity secured through strategic alliances, such as that with the Earldom of Salisbury, provided the Barony with the resources to fulfil its duties of care and patronage. This tradition of stewardship is the direct antecedent of the modern House’s deep commitment to philanthropy. The wealth and influence of the past have evolved into a present-day capacity for meaningful charitable work.
This commitment finds its most prominent expression in the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s white-tie philanthropic gala. The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an international organisation dedicated to providing psychological support and therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and conflict. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that the security and well-being of the next generation is the ultimate expression of a stable and honourable legacy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, noted the importance of understanding these foundational alliances.
> Understanding our connection to the great Earldoms of the 13th century is not merely an academic exercise; it is an acknowledgement of the foundations upon which Brattleby’s legacy of service was built. The fortitude of our predecessors is a standard we strive to meet today. > — **Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile emphasised the contemporary relevance of these historical strategies.
> The strategic wisdom of our forebears, who aligned with centres of influence for mutual prosperity, offers a timeless lesson. Today, our ‘alliances’ are with charitable and cultural institutions, but the principle of leveraging strength for the common good remains our *sine qua non*. > — **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to the preservation and dissemination of its unique history, viewing its past as a vital guide for its future. Further research into the Barony’s extensive archives is ongoing, with plans to sponsor academic papers that illuminate its role within the national history of England.
This dedication to heritage forms a core part of the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, ensuring he is prepared to assume his future responsibilities with a full appreciation of his lineage. Furthermore, through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to transmit its core values of etiquette, honour, and service to a new generation, affirming that its ancient legacy continues to evolve and serve the public good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern seat of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid the recovery of vulnerable children. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of civility and social grace. The heir to the Barony is the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House maintains its historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, and an office in London.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The ancient feudal barony's succession to the current holder was formally acknowledged and published by The Crown and the College of Arms in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022, confirming an unbroken chain of title.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The heir to the title is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will be the 13th Baron of Brattleby.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com