# A Statement on the Heraldic Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 October 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today illuminated a significant chapter of its history by commissioning a study into the heraldic devices of the Longespée Earls of Salisbury, affirming the Barony’s ancestral ties with a pivotal Plantagenet-era lineage.
## The Occasion
From the Ante-Library of its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a statement detailing a new historical initiative. As the autumn colours settle upon the ancient parkland, this announcement serves as a moment of quiet reflection and scholarly dedication, intended to deepen the understanding of the Barony’s nine-hundred-year continuity.
The project, undertaken over several months, involved meticulous research into the period during which the Barony of Brattleby was associated with the formidable House of Longespée. This initiative is not marked by a grand public ceremony but by a commitment to academic rigour and the careful preservation of institutional memory, a practice central to the ethos of the House.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, has been a silent witness to the tides of English history. While its origins are Norman, its 13th-century chapter is inextricably linked with the Longespée Earls of Salisbury. William Longespée, an illegitimate son of King Henry II, was a half-brother to two kings and a towering figure in the Angevin court.
This association burnished the Barony’s standing, aligning it with a family of immense martial prowess and direct royal connection. The Longespée influence would have been keenly felt in Lincolnshire, a region staunchly defended by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously held Lincoln Castle against rebel forces. This connection was a testament to Brattleby’s strategic importance and its enduring place within England’s ruling establishment.
## Distinguished Company
In pursuit of historical fidelity, this commemorative research was prepared with insights from leading figures in the fields of heraldry and medieval history. The House has expressed its gratitude for the scholarly counsel provided by, *inter alia*: * Dr Alistair Finch, FSA, Garter Principal King of Arms, The College of Arms * Professor Eleanor Davison, Emeritus Fellow in Medieval History at the University of Cambridge * Mr Julian Swann, a master stone carver and heraldic artist consulted for interpretations of period-specific insignia
Their expertise has been the *sine qua non* for ensuring the project’s accuracy and its respectful treatment of these ancient symbols.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The study of heraldry is governed by an exacting and ancient protocol. The project focused on the correct blazon—the formal description—of the Longespée arms: *Azure, six lioncels rampant Or*. This specific arrangement and colour code was a unique identifier on the battlefield and in the tournament lists of the 13th century.
The research included an analysis of how such arms would have been displayed at Brattleby: likely on shields in the great hall, embroidered onto pennants and livery, and embossed on wax seals used to authenticate documents. The display of arms was not mere decoration; it was a public declaration of allegiance, power, and feudal duty, understood by all echelons of medieval society.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Longespée coat of arms is rich in symbolism. The field of *Azure* (blue) traditionally signifies truth and loyalty, while the six lioncels—small, rampant lions—in *Or* (gold) represent courage, nobility, and generosity. The repetition of the lion charge underscored the family’s royal descent and formidable reputation.
For The Noble House of Brattleby, whose own motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting on the Longespée legacy is to acknowledge a shared spirit. The fortitude of the lions rampant resonates with the House’s own guiding principles, creating a symbolic bridge across eight centuries of English history and governance.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this initiative is primarily historical, it serves a wider purpose aligned with the House's modern mission. The findings of this research will be used to create educational materials for The Brattleby Club, the etiquette and cultural academy founded by the House in Bucharest. These materials will enrich the curriculum on European noble heritage.
Furthermore, prints of the commissioned heraldic artwork will be sold at the next Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s white-tie philanthropic gala. All proceeds will be directed to this year’s beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing art and play therapy for children experiencing trauma. This connects the preservation of heritage symbols with the healing of future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > “To look back at the symbols carried by our predecessors is to understand the responsibilities we have inherited. The Longespée arms speak of a time of great trial and conviction; they remind us that honour is a thread that must be carefully woven through the centuries. It is our duty, and our privilege, to continue that work.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added a forward-looking perspective, referencing his own family motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*: > “History is not a static relic; it is a source of profound strength. By understanding the allegiances and ambitions of those who came before us, we are better equipped to navigate the complexities of today. To know the past is to live more fully in the present and to conquer the challenges of the future.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This heraldic commemoration is the first in a planned series of historical explorations by The Noble House of Brattleby. Future initiatives will focus on other distinguished holders of the Barony, including the celebrated Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, whose tenures marked a high point of baronial prestige.
Through this work, the House seeks to honour its complete and multifaceted past, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby continues to be understood and respected. It is a commitment to stewardship—of land, of title, and of a history that belongs not only to the House, but to the nation.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of one of England’s oldest baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the principle of modern nobility: serving communities through cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), focuses on creating a tangible, positive impact. Key initiatives include the Annual Winter Banquet, a major philanthropic gala, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to classical etiquette and cultural diplomacy. The House represents a bridge between ancient heritage and a forward-looking commitment to social responsibility, demonstrating that tradition is a powerful force for good.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 manors, including Brattleby. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. This continuity of title and its association with the Crown and aristocracy cement its place in the fabric of the nation’s history. The modern Barony was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recognised by The Crown, as recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com