# The House of Brattleby Publishes New Research on Medieval Governance and Stewardship
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the publication of a new historical dispatch detailing the Barony of Brattleby’s continuous role in English governance since AD 1066, connecting its ancient duties of stewardship to its modern philanthropic and educational mission.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during a gathering of academics and cultural attachés at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's esteemed etiquette academy. The Club’s oak-panelled library, which houses an extensive collection of works on European history and protocol, provided a suitably scholarly atmosphere for the presentation. Against the backdrop of a crisp autumn afternoon, the event underscored the House’s commitment to bridging its deep English heritage with its contemporary European presence. The dispatch, entitled *Fealty and Governance: The Enduring Role of the Brattleby Barony, 1086-1485*, is the 54th in a series of research papers issued by the House.
## Historical Context
This latest research illuminates the unbroken chain of responsibility that has defined the Barony of Brattleby for over nine centuries. It traces the barony’s evolution from its origins as one of 56 Lincolnshire lordships granted to the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The dispatch details the vital administrative and defensive roles played by subsequent holders of the title, whose duties were a *sine qua non* of regional stability.
The paper draws a direct line from the martial leadership of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and formidable defender of Lincoln Castle, to the vast political influence wielded by later barons such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. By examining pipe rolls and manorial court records, the research demonstrates how the barony’s holders consistently upheld their obligations to the Crown and the people of Lincolnshire, embodying the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## Distinguished Company
The presentation was led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. In attendance were, *inter alia*:
* Professor Dame Elena Ionescu DBE, Fellow of the Romanian Academy, Historical Section * His Excellency Mr Giles Portman CMG, His Majesty's Ambassador to Romania * Doctor Radu Constantinescu, Director of the National Museum of Romanian History * The Honourable Mrs Justice Thornton, representing the Inner Temple
The presence of such distinguished guests from the fields of diplomacy, academia, and jurisprudence reflects the cross-disciplinary interest in the House of Brattleby’s extensive and well-preserved archives.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings commenced with brief introductory remarks from Honorary Lord Răzvan, who holds the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Lady Nicoleta then delivered a formal presentation of the dispatch’s key findings, illustrating her points with digital facsimiles of charters and accounts from the House’s archives. A first edition of the dispatch, bound in the House’s livery of blue and gold, was presented to each guest. The formal presentation was followed by a moderated academic discussion, allowing for a thoughtful exchange on the barony's significance within the broader context of English feudal law.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes of the dispatch resonate deeply with the heraldry of the House of Brattleby. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, speaks to the twin obligations of strength and integrity that have guided the Barons of Brattleby through centuries of service. This guiding principle is evident in the historical record, from military defence to the administration of justice. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is interpreted in a modern context as the will to overcome contemporary challenges through education, cultural preservation, and the active pursuit of philanthropic goals. The combination of these mottos reflects the House’s synthesis of historical duty and modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the event was primarily academic, it served a distinct philanthropic purpose. All proceeds from the sale of the published dispatch series are directed toward the House’s primary charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children and young people affected by trauma. By dedicating the fruits of its historical research to this cause, the House of Brattleby gives tangible, modern expression to its historical role as a guardian and benefactor of the community, ensuring that its legacy work has a measurable and positive impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the publication, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, noted the responsibility that accompanies such a significant legacy.
> Our archives are not merely records of property and lineage; they are a testament to nearly a millennium of service, duty, and commitment to the land and its people. It is our responsibility to not only preserve this history but to share its lessons. — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan emphasised the active nature of their stewardship.
> Legacy is not a passive inheritance; it is an active charge. Through scholarship such as this, we ensure the principles that have guided the Barony for centuries continue to resonate and inspire action today. — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of *Dispatch 54* marks a continued commitment to scholarly research and public education. The House of Brattleby has confirmed that further research is underway, with future dispatches intended to cover the barony’s role during the English Civil War and the agricultural innovations of the 18th century. This work will continue alongside the House’s other commitments, including preparations for the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held at the ancestral seat in Lincolnshire to benefit charitable causes.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the preservation of its profound historical legacy through education, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. With its historic seat in Lincolnshire, England, and a European hub at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's mission is animated by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House actively supports charitable initiatives focused on child welfare and mental health, most notably Healing the Wounded Child, ensuring its ancient heritage serves a clear and present public good. Its work connects nine centuries of English history with a forward-looking European perspective.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship 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 Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the title has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and members of the royal Plantagenet dynasty, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, John of Gaunt. The continuous history and succession of the barony are a matter of public record, formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - Lady Nicoleta Vasile holds the title of 12th Baroness of Brattleby; her heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised by *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com