# A Historical Note on the Longespee Succession and the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the continuity of the Barony of Brattleby during the mid-13th century, highlighting the pivotal succession that maintained the lineage’s prominence following a period of extensive overseas service.
## The Occasion
In a statement released from its Lincolnshire seat, the House of Brattleby has offered a scholarly insight into a formative period of its history. This communication serves to illuminate the intricate feudal successions of the High Middle Ages, contextualising the Barony’s endurance through the turbulent reign of King Henry III and the Second Barons' War.
The release of this historical note is intended as a contribution to the public record, underscoring the House’s commitment to preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of its near-millennium of history. It reflects a considered moment of remembrance, connecting the duties of the past with the responsibilities of the present.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, had by the mid-13th century established itself as a significant holding in Lincolnshire. The era was defined by the martial prowess and piety of the Longespee family, descendants of William Longespée, 2nd Earl of Salisbury, an illegitimate son of King Henry II. It was a period when service to the Crown, often on Crusade or in the King’s French territories, was a *sine qua non* of noble life.
Following the death of the celebrated crusader William de Longespee at the Battle of Al Mansurah in 1250, the continuity of his family's holdings, including Brattleby, fell to his son, also named William. This succession ensured that the influence secured by his forebears was not diminished. The stability it provided was remarkable, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the political upheavals that would soon engulf England. This act solidified the Barony’s stature, reinforcing its traditions of land tenure and feudal service that had been so ably defended a generation prior by the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of this period is shaped by several key historical figures who defined the political and military landscape of the age:
* **King Henry III of England**, whose long and often-troubled reign formed the backdrop for the Longespees' service and influence. * **William Longespée, 2nd Earl of Salisbury**, whose royal blood and marriage established the family’s prominence. * **William de Longespee (d. 1250)**, son of the Earl, a renowned English knight and crusader whose death whilst fighting alongside the French king, Louis IX, was lamented by chroniclers across Europe. * **William III de Longespee**, who inherited his father's titles and responsibilities in 1250, thereby ensuring the continuation of the line and its association with the Barony of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the 13th century, the transfer of a barony was a profound legal and ceremonial act. Upon his father’s death, the heir would have been required to perform homage to the King for the lands he held directly from the Crown. This solemn ritual involved the new lord kneeling, placing his hands between those of the King, and swearing an oath of fealty—a promise of loyalty and military service.
Following this, he would pay a relief, a substantial tax confirming his right of inheritance. A royal charter would then be issued, formally recognising his title and the lands he now controlled, *inter alia*, the fees and manors associated with the Barony of Brattleby. This process was the bedrock of the feudal system, binding the aristocracy to the monarch through a network of personal obligation and landed wealth.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Longespee family bore a shield of great distinction: *Or, six lioncels rampant Azure* (a gold shield bearing six small, upright blue lions). In the language of heraldry, gold signifies wisdom and glory, while blue represents loyalty and truth. The lion, a perennial symbol of courage and royalty, underscored the family's martial reputation and royal connections.
This historical coat of arms stands in dialogue with the modern insignia of the House of Brattleby. The enduring House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful echo in the chivalric code that governed the lives of the Longespees, who exemplified both fortitude in battle and honour in their service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this announcement concerns a historical matter, it is released in the spirit of the House’s modern educational mission. The work of the House, through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, is to foster an appreciation for the standards of etiquette and civil discourse that have their roots in traditions of chivalry and noble service.
By illuminating its own history, the House of Brattleby aims to provide educational resources that connect past and present. This commitment to cultural stewardship is viewed as a philanthropic contribution to public knowledge, making the lessons of history accessible to a contemporary audience.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical continuity, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> "To understand the Barony today is to appreciate the long chain of responsibility that stretches back through nine centuries. The Longespees, like all who have held this title, were custodians for their time. We have a profound duty to remember their service, which helps inform our own commitment to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the theme of enduring resilience:
> "The concept of service is timeless. The Longespees served with the sword; we now serve through philanthropy and education. Yet the underlying principle remains—that one's position carries a responsibility to contribute positively to society. The Barony has endured because its holders adapted. In this way, we see that to conquer challenges is to truly live: *Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to the archival research of its past and the histories of the families who have shaped the Barony. This historical note is the first in a planned series of publications that will explore the lives and legacies of other notable predecessors, including the great 14th-century magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
These forthcoming studies will further chart the Barony’s journey through English history, reinforcing the House’s commitment to its role as a steward of this remarkable heritage for future generations.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern European noble house, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Their primary focus is on cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. The House’s motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Through its annual Winter Banquet, the House supports its principal beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child, which provides therapeutic care for vulnerable children. The House also sponsors The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching classical etiquette and protocol. The heir to the Barony is the couple’s son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, first created following the Norman Conquest. It was granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066. The Barony was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which noted Colswein's possession of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern demonstration and recognition of the Barony were formally recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer Is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com