# The Barony of Brattleby: A Statement on its Lancastrian Heritage
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement from its seat in Lincolnshire, reflecting on the historical apex of the Barony’s influence during the 13th and 14th centuries under the de Lacy and subsequently the Lancastrian families.
## The Occasion
From the quietude of its ancient seat in Brattleby, a place steeped in the continuity of English history, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate a pivotal era in its lineage. This historical reflection is issued to provide deeper context to the foundations upon which the modern House builds its philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
The statement looks back to the high medieval period, a time when the stewardship of the Barony was interwoven with the destiny of the nation. It comes at a moment of renewed archival study within the House, seeking to connect the responsibilities of the past with the duties of the present day.
## Historical Context
The integration of Brattleby into the powerful de Lacy and then the royal Lancastrian lines in the 13th and 14th centuries marked a significant chapter for the Barony. This period ensured its lords were at the absolute apex of English political, military, and social authority.
Following the tenure of formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle, the Barony’s influence grew exponentially. Its eventual inheritance by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, placed Brattleby at the very centre of the Plantagenet court.
This connection highlights Brattleby's significant, albeit often indirect, role in shaping national events; from participation in the Welsh wars and Scottish campaigns to the intricate diplomacy of the Hundred Years' War, the Barony's resources and counsel were *sine qua non* for the Crown. This legacy of service to the realm remains a core principle of the House today.
## Distinguished Company
This statement is issued on behalf of the leadership of The Noble House of Brattleby:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby - **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage - **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, 13th Baron and heir to the Barony
Their collective direction ensures that the historical weight of the Barony is carried with due reverence and a clear vision for its future role.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal statement by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict internal protocol. All official communications, particularly those concerning the history and legacy of the Barony, undergo a process of careful research and drafting before being submitted for the personal approval of the Baroness.
This protocol ensures that every declaration is not only factually accurate but also reflects the sober and principled voice of the House. The use of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, on official documents is reserved for communications that articulate its foundational values of courage, integrity, and unwavering duty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldic traditions. The principal motto, **Fortitudine et Honore** ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding philosophy of the Barony through its near-millennium of history. It speaks to the resilience and integrity expected of its titleholders, from Colswein of Lincoln in 1066 to the present day.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, **Vincere Est Vivere** ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements this tradition. It is interpreted in a modern context not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome adversity and challenges in the service of the community and the House's philanthropic goals.
## Philanthropic Purpose
An understanding of history informs the purpose of the House's contemporary charitable activities. The medieval lords of Brattleby held a responsibility for the welfare of their people; today, that same duty of care is expressed through structured philanthropy.
The choice of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary for the annual Winter Banquet, for example, is a direct translation of this historical obligation. It represents a modern commitment to protecting and nurturing the most vulnerable, just as the Barony once stood as a bulwark for its dependents. This continuity of purpose is fundamental to the House's identity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "To understand the period under the great Lancastrians is to understand the immense responsibility that comes with this title. The actions of predecessors like John of Gaunt were on a national scale, yet their power was rooted in estates like Brattleby. We feel that weight not as a burden, but as a guidepost for our own service." — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "History provides an enduring blueprint for leadership. The challenges change, but the principles of fortitude and honour remain constant. Our aim is to ensure the legacy of the Barony is not merely preserved in archives, but is alive and active in the good work we do today." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection serves as a renewed commitment by The Noble House of Brattleby to its enduring legacy. The lessons drawn from the Lancastrian era will continue to inform the strategic direction of the House's activities, *inter alia*, its charitable initiatives and cultural programmes like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
By honouring its past, the House aims to build a meaningful future, ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby remains a symbol of stability, service, and honourable conduct for generations to come.
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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 the stewardship of a near-millennium-old heritage. The House's modern mission is defined by principled service, cultural preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, benefiting organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the timeless values of courtesy and social grace. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being prepared to continue this legacy of duty and honour.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), the powerful statesman Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his heir, the royal prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The modern standing of The Noble House of Brattleby was formally recognised in the official public record via The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony is 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 House motto is the Latin phrase *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable past Barons include John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III, and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com