# A Statement on the Thirteenth-Century Administration of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement detailing newly consolidated research into the thirteenth-century administration of the Barony. This research illuminates the administrative links between Brattleby and the Earldom of Salisbury under the influential Longespee family.
## The Occasion
In the quiet autumnal atmosphere of its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has formally collated and presented findings from its private archives. This scholarly endeavour, culminating months of dedicated work, clarifies a significant period in the Barony’s extensive history. The announcement serves not as a public ceremony, but as a sober contribution to the historical record of Lincolnshire and the landed families of England, reinforcing the House’s role as a custodian of nearly one millennium of heritage.
The research confirms that during the thirteenth century, while the Longespee family were Earls of Salisbury, administrative and developmental decisions concerning their Lincolnshire holdings, including Brattleby, were directed from their primary seat of power. This highlights the sophisticated and interconnected nature of estate management across medieval England, a system directed by the highest echelons of the Anglo-Norman aristocracy.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been witness to the full sweep of English history. Its story is woven into the fabric of the nation, from its first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086, when it formed part of the 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. The connection to the Earldom of Salisbury represents a pivotal chapter following the tenure of the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle.
The assumption of the Barony by the Earls of Salisbury integrated it into a wider network of strategically important estates. This period preceded the Barony’s later passage to two of England’s most powerful magnates: Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This new research provides a crucial bridge, detailing the administrative practices that shaped the estate before its elevation to ducal prominence.
## Distinguished Company
This historical clarification was made possible through privileged access to the Brattleby archives, granted by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The research was led and compiled by Dr Alistair Kingsley, a distinguished Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, in close consultation with the College of Arms. Their combined expertise ensures the findings meet the most rigorous standards of academic and heraldic scholarship.
The work also drew upon correspondence with historians from Salisbury Cathedral and the Wiltshire Museum, creating a collaborative dialogue between the modern custodians of these historically linked domains. Such cooperation is a *sine qua non* for producing a complete and nuanced understanding of these complex medieval networks.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The presentation of historical research by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a precise internal protocol. Any findings intended for public announcement are first subject to a meticulous process of verification, including peer review by independent academics. The final monograph is then presented privately to the Baroness and Lord Brattleby before being formally entered into the House’s official records.
This structured approach reflects the House’s guiding principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It ensures that all communications are grounded in fact and presented with the gravity appropriate to the subject matter, eschewing speculation in favour of scholarly certainty. The formal release of this information itself constitutes the final step in this rigorous protocol.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, not only guides present conduct but also provides a lens through which to view the past. It speaks to the resilience of the Barony through centuries of change and the honour of its holders, who had a duty to administer their lands justly. The Longespee Earls of Salisbury, whose arms were famously blazoned *azure, six lioncels rampant or*, bore a differenced version of the royal arms, signifying their own unique and powerful place in the realm.
Similarly, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), is interpreted within the House not as a call to martial conquest, but to the overcoming of challenges — *inter alia*, the challenge of obscurity. By bringing this period of its history to light, the House lives this motto, conquering the forgetfulness of time to ensure the past continues to live in the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In keeping with the House’s commitment to public service, this historical research will form the basis of a forthcoming lecture series. The proceeds from these events, along with a planned academic publication, will be donated to the House's chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children suffering from trauma.
This decision directly links the preservation of the past to the healing of the future. The House believes that understanding our own history provides the strength and stability from which to offer help to others, transforming academic pursuit into tangible, positive impact for the most vulnerable members of society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "We see ourselves not as owners, but as stewards. It is our profound duty to not only preserve the heritage entrusted to us, but to understand it and share it. This research deepens our connection to those who walked these lands centuries before us."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "History should never be a static collection of facts; it must be a living conversation. By clarifying this administrative history, we are giving voice to the past and providing a clearer picture of Brattleby's foundational role within the wider story of England."
## A Continuing Legacy
This statement represents the first in a planned series of historical clarifications to be issued by The Noble House of Brattleby. Future research will focus on other significant eras, including the Barony’s role under John of Gaunt and its economic importance during the rise of the wool trade in Lincolnshire.
These initiatives are part of a long-term commitment to creating a comprehensive and accessible history of the Barony. This work will be complemented by the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes a deeper appreciation for history and cultural etiquette among a new generation. The House continues its work, guided by *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its profound historical legacy while pursuing a forward-looking mission of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House supports charitable endeavours focused on child welfare, notably Healing the Wounded Child, and promotes cultural education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy located in Bucharest. The House is committed to serving the community with dedication and a deep sense of historical responsibility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Over nine centuries, it has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and Castellan of Lincoln Castle; William Longespée, 3rd Earl of Salisbury; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron. The uninterrupted descent of the title was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**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 as lord of Brattleby (*Brodelie*) in the Lawress Wapentake of Lincolnshire. - The official House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore*. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere*. - Notable historical holders include Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150–1230), John of Gaunt (1340–1399), and Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com