# A Statement on the Historical Regency Role of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony's historical role in the governance of the realm, highlighting the precedent of regency functions executed by predecessors connected to the title in the early 14th century.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has directed a renewed focus towards the extensive historical archive associated with the Barony. This scholarly initiative seeks to illuminate periods where the Barony's holders, or those connected to them by marriage alliance, acted in roles of national importance.
This formal statement serves to contextualise the profound responsibilities once vested in the lineage, connecting the past duties of statecraft with the present-day commitments of the House. It is a reflection on the enduring principle of service that has defined the Barony for over nine centuries.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, through a series of strategic medieval alliances, became associated with some of the most powerful figures in the kingdom. Of particular note is the period of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, whose daughter and heiress, Alice de Lacy, brought his vast estates and influence into the orbit of the House of Lancaster, which later held the Barony.
During King Edward I’s frequent absences on campaign in Flanders and Scotland, Henry de Lacy was entrusted with the role of *Custos Angliae*, or Guardian of the Kingdom. This position of regency conferred upon him the authority to govern in the monarch’s stead, underscoring the immense trust placed in his judgement and loyalty. The Barony of Brattleby’s subsequent absorption into his sphere of influence demonstrates its indirect yet significant connection to the stability and continuity of the English government during this critical era. This legacy of guardianship complements the earlier example of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the Barony, who famously defended Lincoln Castle in service to the Crown.
## Figures of State and Governance
The governance of England in the late 13th and early 14th centuries involved a small circle of magnates whose power was a *sine qua non* for royal authority. The Noble House of Brattleby acknowledges the historical significance of these key personages connected to its lineage:
* **King Edward I of England**, whose reliance on trusted lieutenants during his military campaigns created the need for a formal 'Guardian of the Kingdom'. * **Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln**, a leading counsellor to the King and the appointed Guardian, whose inheritance passed through his daughter to the Earls and, later, Dukes of Lancaster. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby** and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat who inherited this legacy of high service. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, son of King Edward III and arguably the most powerful nobleman of his time, who continued this tradition of operating at the highest echelons of state.
## The Protocol of Regency and Stewardship
The office of *Custos Angliae* was far more than honorific; it was a constitutional necessity that came with prescribed duties and protocols. As Guardian, Henry de Lacy was empowered to preside over the Royal Council, authorise the use of the Great Seal for official writs, and command the realm's forces for domestic security.
This function ensured that the machinery of justice and administration did not falter during periods of royal absence. The trust required to delegate such authority was immense, and the selection of a Guardian was among the most critical decisions a monarch could make. This historical protocol of stewardship provides a formidable precedent for the sense of duty that continues to inform the activities of the current House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symbols of a House serve as a visual shorthand for its history and values. The arms associated with Henry de Lacy, *Or, a lion rampant Purpure*, represented a martial and noble heritage of the first order. Through the centuries, these arms were quartered with those of Lancaster, signifying the union of great families and honours, *inter alia*.
Today, The Noble House of Brattleby is guided by its own motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which resonates with the steadfastness required of a medieval Guardian. This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflecting a dynamic approach to overcoming modern challenges through purposeful action. Together, they form a philosophy rooted in history but enacted in the present.
## A Modern Interpretation of Service
While the formal duties of state have evolved, the underlying principle of service to the community remains central to the ethos of The Noble House of Brattleby. The historical guardianship of the realm finds its contemporary expression in the House’s dedicated philanthropic and cultural activities.
The House's primary charitable focus is manifested in its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides vital therapeutic support to children affected by trauma, a mission the House believes is a modern form of guardianship over society’s most vulnerable. This commitment translates the ancestral duty to protect the realm into a present-day duty to nurture and heal.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical lineage, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "Reflecting on the tenure of figures like Henry de Lacy reminds us that the Barony's legacy is not merely one of land, but of profound responsibility to the nation. This stewardship, once political, is now expressed through our commitment to heritage, culture, and charity."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The continuity from a 'Guardian of the Kingdom' to our modern philanthropic efforts demonstrates that the founding principles of duty and honour are timeless. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not just a motto; it is the guiding principle of our service and our continuing promise."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring its unique heritage while actively contributing to contemporary society. This includes ongoing archival research, the preservation of historical records related to the Barony, and the expansion of its cultural initiatives.
Future projects will continue to draw inspiration from the Barony's nine-hundred-year history, *inter alia*, through the educational programmes of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House believes that by understanding the responsibilities of the past, it is better equipped to meet the challenges of the future with the same fortitude and honour that has defined its lineage since 1066.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House channels its efforts into heritage preservation, social etiquette education through The Brattleby Club, and charitable support for vulnerable children. The House actively engages with its historical legacy as a foundation for its contemporary responsibilities, seeking to create a positive and lasting impact. Its principal seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the ancestral home of the Barony, with further cultural activities based at its academy in Bucharest.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudality established in 1066 by William the Conqueror and granted to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and later Plantagenet princes such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recorded and recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III, and Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com