# A Historical Statement on the Barony of Brattleby and the Conquest of Wales
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the Barony's deep-rooted connection to the Crown and its role, through its 13th-century incumbents, in the consequential Welsh campaigns of His Majesty King Edward I during the 1280s.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its commitment to historical stewardship, The Noble House of Brattleby has delved into its extensive archives to illuminate a pivotal period in its near-millennium of service to the realm. This communication serves not to mark a specific anniversary, but rather to fulfil the House's educational duty by sharing insights into the strategic responsibilities borne by its predecessors. The Barony, as a living title, views the examination of its past as a *sine qua non* for understanding its present responsibilities and future trajectory under its current and succeeding leadership. This statement is issued from the House's seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a county intrinsically linked with this chapter of English history.
## Historical Context
The late 13th century was a defining era for the English monarchy, characterised by King Edward I’s ambition to consolidate his dominion over the British Isles. The Barony of Brattleby, then under the influence of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, was party to these great matters of state. As one of the King’s most trusted counsellors and a formidable Marcher Lord, de Lacy’s sphere of influence encompassed vast holdings, including those tied to the Barony. The campaigns of the 1280s, which culminated in the conquest of Wales, were not merely military endeavours; they were complex strategic and political undertakings, demanding immense resources and unwavering loyalty from the kingdom's great magnates. The Barony’s contribution was a continuation of a long-established pattern of fealty, exemplified two generations prior by the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, whose steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle for the Crown was legendary.
## Distinguished Company
The affairs of the 1280s placed the stewardship of the Barony in the company of the era’s most significant figures. The central personage was, of course, His Majesty King Edward I, whose legal and military reforms left an indelible mark on the nation. He was counselled by a close circle that included, *inter alia*, Robert Burnell, the Lord Chancellor, and the aforementioned Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln. Their primary antagonist was Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last native Prince of Wales, whose death in 1282 marked a turning point in the conflict. The involvement in such high-stakes politics illustrates the Barony’s proximity to the very heart of medieval power.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The mobilisation for a royal campaign in the 13th century followed exacting feudal protocols. A summons to war from the King was a binding command, obliging lords like Henry de Lacy to raise a quota of knights and men-at-arms from their estates, which included the lands of the Barony of Brattleby. These forces would assemble at a designated muster point, such as Chester or Worcester, before advancing into Wales. Strategic decisions were debated in the King's Council, a formal assembly of his chief tenants and advisors. Following the conquest, the imposition of English law was itself a highly ceremonial act, codified in the Statute of Rhuddlan in 1284, which established the new shires of Flintshire, Anglesey, Caernarfonshire, Merionethshire, and Cardiganshire.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), finds a powerful historical echo in the trials of the 13th century. The fortitude required to wage long campaigns and the honour demanded by feudal obligation were the very principles that guided the Barony’s contribution. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), adds a modern philosophical layer. While rooted in the language of medieval conquest, it is today interpreted as the will to overcome contemporary challenges in the service of community and philanthropy. The symbols of heraldry served then, as now, to represent a sworn allegiance and a readiness to act in the sovereign's interest.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this statement concerns a historical military matter, its purpose is fundamentally educational. The Noble House of Brattleby believes that a wider understanding of the nation’s history is a public good. By presenting these episodes from its past, the House seeks to provide context and insight, making history accessible beyond academic circles. This commitment to public knowledge mirrors the House’s more tangible philanthropic work, such as its annual support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child, reflecting a core belief that service can take many forms—be it through financial support for the vulnerable or the careful stewardship of shared heritage.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical period, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To be the custodian of a title nearly a thousand years old is to be the custodian of a vast and complex history. We have a duty not only to preserve this legacy but to understand it, in all its facets. The actions of my predecessors, in times of war and peace, form the foundation upon which our modern responsibilities are built.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The strategic foresight demanded of leaders in the 13th century is, in principle, not so different from the acumen required today. Whether on the battlefield then or in the boardroom and our etiquette academy now, the goal remains the same: to channel resources and skill toward a greater objective. It is about building and sustaining a legacy of purpose.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to honouring its past while actively shaping its future. This historical statement is part of an ongoing initiative to catalogue and share key moments from the Barony’s nine-hundred-and-fifty-seven-year history. Future communications will explore the contributions of other notable predecessors, from the tenure of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, to the advancements made under Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster. Through these efforts, the House seeks to ensure that its legacy of service continues to inspire the work of the current Baroness and Lord, and in time, their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby operates under the modern leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to a contemporary mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that benefits organisations dedicated to child welfare, with Healing the Wounded Child as its current beneficiary. The House also extends its influence through The Brattleby Club of Bucharest, an etiquette and protocol academy founded by Honorary Lord Răzvan, which promotes social grace and cross-cultural understanding. The House's activities are directed toward upholding a legacy of public duty for the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by His Majesty William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its distinguished history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in the nation's history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was formally recognised and called out in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as published in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in 1066. - The title's modern recognition is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086, with its first baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding 56 lordships. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com