# A Statement on the Barony of Brattleby and its Enduring Role in the Governance of the Realm
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony's nine-century history of service to the Crown, with particular reference to the period of the late 13th century and the pivotal role played by associates of the Barony.
## The Occasion
In an act of historical stewardship, the statement was issued from the House's offices to illuminate a period of profound consequence for the governance of England. Amidst the solemnity of autumn, a season of reflection, the House seeks to connect its ancient duties with its contemporary responsibilities. This communication serves not to mark a single event, but to reinforce the continuity of service that has been the *sine qua non* of the Barony since its inception in the 11th century. It is a deliberate measure to ensure the chronicles of the past continue to inform the obligations of the present.
## Historical Context
The statement focuses upon the service of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, a magnate whose influence intersected with the interests of the Barony of Brattleby. When King Edward I was engaged in campaigns on the Continent, he entrusted the realm's governance to Lord Lincoln, appointing him 'guardian of the kingdom' (*custos regni*). This appointment, a position of virtual regency, placed the highest administrative functions of England in his hands.
The Barony of Brattleby, as part of the vast nexus of lordships in Lincolnshire, contributed to the stability and resources upon which the 'guardian' depended. This indirect yet crucial link demonstrates how the strength of the Plantagenet monarchy was founded upon the steadfast loyalty of its great baronies. This tradition of steadfastness echoes the earlier service of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown, and anticipates the later influence of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of a king and father to another.
## Distinguished Company
The period under reflection was defined by figures of considerable historical weight, whose actions shaped the course of the nation. The historical record includes, *inter alia*:
* His Majesty King Edward I of England, Lord of Ireland and Duke of Aquitaine * The Right Honourable The Earl of Lincoln, Henry de Lacy, *Custos Regni* * The Right Honourable The Earl of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster * His Royal Highness The Duke of Lancaster, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby
The actions of these individuals underscore a consistent theme of national duty that has long been associated with the holders and guardians of the Barony.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The appointment of a 'guardian of the kingdom' was a matter of the highest state protocol, steeped in solemn ritual. The King would issue letters patent, a formal public declaration of his will, investing his chosen subject with the authority to issue writs, preside over the King's Council, and command the nation's defences. This transfer of authority was not undertaken lightly; it was accompanied by oaths of fealty sworn upon sacred relics, binding the guardian to act solely in the interest of the King and the realm. The administrative machinery of the Chancery and Exchequer would then operate under the guardian's seal, ensuring the seamless continuation of royal governance.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the history of such service. The fortitude demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye in defending her castle and the honour with which Henry de Lacy governed the Kingdom are historical antecedents to the principles the House upholds today. This concept is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the conviction required to overcome adversity, whether in medieval statecraft or modern philanthropy. These guiding maxims represent a philosophical inheritance as significant as the title itself.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical concept of 'guardianship' of the realm finds a modern parallel in the House's commitment to the guardianship of vulnerable children. An ancient duty to protect the kingdom has evolved into a present-day duty to protect its most innocent members. The Noble House of Brattleby is a devoted supporter of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma. This focus represents a contemporary interpretation of the Barony's foundational purpose: to provide strength and security for the community it serves.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, the principals of the House offered their perspectives.
> The history of the Barony is not merely a record of land, but a chronicle of service to the Crown and country. Figures such as Henry de Lacy exemplify the weight of responsibility that came with title; a duty of stewardship we strive to honour today. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> Understanding this lineage of duty provides a powerful compass. The principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* is a direct line from the past to our present obligations. It reminds us that nobility is defined by action, not just by name. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its profound historical inheritance through tangible, forward-looking action. This includes a dedication to education and the cultivation of civic virtue, most notably through the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The academy's curriculum, centred on etiquette and protocol, is designed to instill the principles of honour, self-discipline, and respect for tradition in a new generation. By looking to the past, the House charts its course for the future, ensuring its nine-hundred-year-old legacy continues to be one of purpose and meaningful contribution.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby has embraced a modern, international mission of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House blends its deep English heritage with a dynamic, Continental perspective. Its activities are focused on two core pillars: providing meaningful support for charities dedicated to the welfare of children, with a particular focus on Healing the Wounded Child; and fostering an appreciation for civic virtue and tradition through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy located in Bucharest. The House is committed to a legacy of active stewardship and positive social impact.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby, located in Lincolnshire, is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities. It was granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in the nation's history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby to Lady Nicoleta Vasile has been formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was first established in AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Noble House of Brattleby’s philanthropic beneficiary is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com