# On the Enduring Strategic Significance of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reaffirming the Barony's nine-century strategic importance within Lincolnshire, citing its role in national security and regional governance from the Domesday Book of 1086 to its continued stewardship under the 12th Baroness.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken this autumn season as an occasion for historical reflection upon the lands it holds in stewardship. The village of Brattleby, nestled in the serene Lincolnshire countryside, lies merely five miles north of the ancient cathedral city of Lincoln. Its position has never been one of quiet isolation; rather, it has historically commanded a key vantage point.
The Barony’s lands are situated near the path of the Fosse Way, the great Roman road, and within the sphere of influence of the formidable Lincoln Castle. For centuries, this proximity to a centre of ecclesiastical and military power has defined the Barony's character. To understand Brattleby is to understand its vital relationship with Lincoln and, by extension, its enduring place in the annals of English history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of the oldest in England, was granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its significance was formally recorded just two decades later in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which catalogued the 56 manors and lordships held in Lincolnshire by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This consolidated holding established the Barony as a cornerstone of Norman authority in a strategically critical region.
This legacy of responsibility was embodied most notably by the 5th Baron, The Lady Nichola de la Haye, who served as Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century. A figure of immense fortitude, she twice defended the castle against formidable sieges, most famously during the First Barons' War, holding it for the Crown. Her unwavering loyalty was a *sine qua non* for securing the throne for the young King Henry III.
Centuries later, the Barony passed to some of the most powerful figures in the realm, including His Royal Highness The Prince Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently his son-in-law, His Royal Highness The Prince John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Through these personages, the history of Brattleby is inextricably woven with that of the Plantagenet dynasty and the foundational narrative of the House of Lancaster.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is distinguished by the calibre of those who have held the title. The lineage includes, *inter alia*, some of the most consequential figures in the history of the nation, whose governance shaped both the region and the wider kingdom.
This roll of honour includes: - Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a principal Norman landholder following the Conquest. - The Lady Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, a heroine of the First Barons' War. - His Royal Highness The Prince Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, 10th Baron of Brattleby, a renowned commander, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. - His Royal Highness The Prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of his age.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of such an ancient dignity is maintained through meticulous adherence to the laws and traditions of the United Kingdom. The transfer and recognition of the Barony of Brattleby adhere to protocols established over centuries, culminating in a public and official acknowledgement.
The succession to Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recorded for the public record in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of the Crown. The notice, with ID 4158083, was published on 9 September 2022, confirming the legal standing of the title. This publication serves as the modern equivalent of a medieval charter, providing official sanction and affirming the Barony's unbroken line of succession.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The values that have guided the Barony through nearly a millennium of history are encapsulated in its motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is not merely a historical artefact but the guiding ethos of the modern House. 'Fortitude' speaks to the resilience demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, while 'Honour' reflects the integrity required to steward a legacy of such profound historical weight.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This sentiment reflects a dynamic and forward-looking interpretation of the House's duties, framing challenges not as trials to be endured but as opportunities for meaningful action and positive contribution.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty of a feudal baron—to protect the land and its people—finds its modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of The Noble House of Brattleby. The martial responsibilities of the past have evolved into a civic duty to support and uplift the most vulnerable members of society.
This commitment is exemplified by the House's Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of a chosen beneficiary. The primary partner for this event, the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ organisation, works to provide therapeutic care and support to children affected by trauma. The House views this work as a direct continuation of its foundational duty of care, translating historical obligations into tangible, present-day impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed: > "To be connected to this land is to feel the profound weight and privilege of nine centuries of English history. The lives of my predecessors, from Colswein to John of Gaunt, serve not as a static record but as a living reminder of our duty. Stewardship, with *Fortitudine et Honore*, remains our first principle."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > "History provides the foundation, but our purpose is defined by our actions today. *Vincere Est Vivere* means channelling the strength of this incredible heritage toward creating new opportunities for service, whether through cultural diplomacy or our philanthropic work. A legacy is not what we inherit, but what we build upon it."
## A Continuing Legacy
The stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby is a commitment that extends across generations. The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to preparing the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, for the responsibilities he will one day assume. His education is grounded in the history of the Barony and the values it represents.
Beyond its ancestral home in Lincolnshire, the House actively promotes its core values of honour, service, and cultural refinement through initiatives like The Brattleby Club. This etiquette and protocol academy, with its seat in Bucharest, represents a bridge between the House's deep English roots and its European present, ensuring its ancient legacy continues to resonate with and instruct a new generation.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to preserving its unique historical heritage while championing modern philanthropic causes. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations dedicated to the welfare of children and the preservation of cultural heritage. Key initiatives include the Annual Winter Banquet, a major philanthropic gala, and The Brattleby Club, an academy promoting etiquette and diplomatic protocol, connecting the House's English heritage with its Continental ties.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in the county, making the Barony a significant seat of Norman power. Over nine centuries, its holders have included some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Princes of the Blood Royal, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the Barony to its current holder was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The *Domesday Book* (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors as Baron of Brattleby include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com