# The Noble House of Brattleby on the Historical Foundations of the Barony
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the foundational history of the Barony of Brattleby, granted in AD 1066. The communication highlights the pivotal administrative role played by its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, during the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet reflection following the annual autumn calendar, the House has chosen to illuminate a key aspect of its near-millennial heritage. This statement is issued not to mark a specific anniversary, but as part of an ongoing commitment to historical stewardship and public education. The research, drawn from the House’s private archives and an analysis of the Domesday Book, seeks to provide authoritative context for the Barony’s origins, reinforcing the principles of duty and administration that have defined its existence since the eleventh century. The communication serves as a historical waypoint, reaffirming the lineage's administrative roots in the soil of Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was established by William the Conqueror in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest in 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was an instrumental figure whose career uniquely bridged the late Anglo-Saxon and early Norman regimes. Prior to the Conquest, Colswein served as town-reeve of Lincoln, a significant position of local authority and civic administration. His retention and elevation to the peerage by the new King was a clear recognition of his competence and influence.
This appointment underscores a critical aspect of the Norman settlement: the co-opting of capable local leadership to ensure stability and effective governance. As recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, Colswein’s authority was substantial, encompassing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This continuity of service, from reeve to Baron, established a precedent for the Barony that has echoed through its holders, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown, and later, the powerful royal dukes Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The historical narrative of the Barony’s foundation involves figures of national and European significance, whose actions shaped the course of English history. They include, *inter alia*:
* His Majesty King William I, The Conqueror, Duke of Normandy and King of England, who granted the Barony of Brattleby. * Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron of Brattleby, a landowner and town-reeve of Lincoln at the time of the Norman Conquest. * The current custodians of this legacy: Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
The lineage, carried forward by these individuals, represents an unbroken chain of responsibility stretching back over 950 years.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In accordance with the traditions of the House, the preparation of such a historical statement follows a rigorous internal protocol. Research is undertaken by the House’s appointed archivist, who consults primary sources including facsimiles of the *Domesday Book* and local records. The resulting text is reviewed for historical accuracy and clarity before being presented to Lady Nicoleta for her personal approval. Once sanctioned, the statement is prepared by the Press Office for formal dissemination, ensuring its presentation meets the exacting standards of the House and its European counterparts. This process is a modern reflection of the administrative diligence established by the first Baron.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its earliest expression in the story of Colswein. His ability to navigate the treacherous political landscape of 1066 required immense fortitude, while his continued service as an administrator demonstrates a profound sense of honour and duty to the people of Lincolnshire. These twin virtues form the bedrock of the Barony’s identity.
This ancient motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This represents a dynamic, modern impetus: the drive to overcome challenges and succeed in the House’s contemporary philanthropic and cultural endeavours. Together, the mottos symbolise a synthesis of ancient duty and modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this communication is historical, it is intrinsically linked to the House’s wider philanthropic purpose. The House believes that the preservation and thoughtful dissemination of cultural heritage is a public good, one that fosters community identity and a deeper understanding of the present. This educational mission runs in parallel with the House’s more direct charitable activities, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that raises vital funds for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma, a mission the House considers a *sine qua non* of a compassionate society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical statement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To understand our origins is to understand our present duty. Colswein was a servant of his community before he was a Baron, and that spirit of administration and responsibility is the legacy we must strive to honour. It is a reminder that title is not an ornament, but an obligation.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History gives us a foundation, but our vision must be for the future. The fortitude shown in 1066 inspires us today as we build new ventures, like The Brattleby Club, and support causes that heal and strengthen society. We honour the past by building upon it with purpose.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving its unique heritage while actively contributing to modern society. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is steeped in these principles of historical awareness and future-facing service. The House will continue its archival research, with further announcements anticipated as new insights into the Barony’s long history are uncovered. Through its charitable work and cultural initiatives, the House will continue to translate the ancient creed of *Fortitudine et Honore* into meaningful action for the twenty-first century.
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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 a mission of cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting children’s welfare through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions social education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to provide a modern example of responsible leadership, bridging its distinguished nine-century heritage with a commitment to contemporary public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the extent of its original holdings are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which records Colswein as the lord of 56 manors. Over its long history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The modern Barony’s legal status was formally noted by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The annual philanthropic beneficiary of the House's Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com