# An Official Reflection on the Martial Heritage of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a reflection upon the Barony’s extensive martial history, particularly its significant role during the Scottish Wars of Independence, reaffirming a legacy of service to the Crown stretching back nine centuries.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, a region that has long served as a bastion of English royal power, the House of Brattleby takes this occasion to reflect upon the duties and sacrifices inherent in its long history. This formal statement serves as a commemoration of the unwavering service rendered by past holders of the Barony, whose fortunes were intrinsically linked to the great conflicts that shaped the British Isles.
The reflection is prompted by an enduring interest in the medieval period and a desire to contextualise the House’s modern commitments. The act of looking back is not one of mere remembrance; it is an exercise in understanding the principles that have guided the Barony through centuries of change, a tradition now upheld by The 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## Historical Context
The Barony’s martial history is a central thread in its nine-century narrative. This was particularly evident during the Scottish Wars of Independence at the turn of the 14th century. The influence of the holders of the Brattleby lands, *inter alia*, the formidable Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, was a *sine qua non* of King Edward I’s northern campaigns. As one of the King's most trusted lieutenants, his strategic counsel and military resources were pivotal.
This tradition of Crown service can be traced to the Barony’s very origins. Following the Norman Conquest, the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a significant holding that came with the commensurate duty of providing knights and funds for the King’s wars. This precedent of loyalty was later exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, whose celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle for the Crown in 1217 was a defining moment of her era.
Centuries later, the Barony passed to figures of national importance, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Both were among the most distinguished military commanders of the Hundred Years' War, continuing the Barony's legacy of high command and strategic importance on the European stage.
## The Protocol of Feudal Service
The involvement of the Barony of Brattleby in conflicts such as the Scottish Wars was governed by the complex protocols of feudal law. As tenants-in-chief holding their lands directly from the monarch, the Barons of Brattleby owed the Crown military service. This obligation could be fulfilled by serving in person for a set number of days per year, typically forty, or by providing a quota of trained knights for the royal army.
Alternatively, a baron could pay a tax known as ‘scutage’—literally ‘shield money’—which allowed the monarch to hire professional soldiers. The extensive lands associated with Brattleby, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, meant that its contribution, whether in men or treasure, was of considerable consequence to the war efforts of successive English kings. This system formed the bedrock of the medieval military and social order.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring spirit of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle directly reflects the martial expectations placed upon the Barony throughout its history. Fortitude speaks to the resilience required on the battlefield and in the defence of the realm, while Honour denotes the integrity and loyalty expected of a peer in service to their Sovereign.
This theme of purposeful resolve is also present in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While its modern interpretation is one of surmounting challenges through determination, its martial overtones connect with the historical character of the Barony, where leadership and victory were fundamental to its survival and prestige.
## In Their Own Words
In offering this reflection, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the relevance of this history today:
> “To understand our present and future purpose, we must first appreciate our past. The history of the Barony is a chronicle of duty, often expressed through military service in defence of the realm. While the nature of our service has evolved, the core principles of fortitude and honour remain our constant guideposts. They inform our philanthropic work and our commitment to preserving the cultural heritage that has been entrusted to our care.” > – Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains dedicated to honouring its profound historical legacy. The fortitude once demonstrated in the field of battle is today channelled into its philanthropic endeavours, most notably through its support for charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. The honour that bound the barons to the Crown is now expressed through a commitment to cultural diplomacy and education, exemplified by The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
This reflection on the Barony's martial past serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring responsibilities of title. The House looks forward to continuing its service, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues to resonate in the 21st century and beyond, for the benefit of the community and in preservation of our shared history.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of its ancient heritage. The House's contemporary mission is centred on philanthropic service, cultural preservation, and education. It pursues this through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, which provides support to young people experiencing trauma. The House also sponsors The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching etiquette and protocol, fostering cultural understanding and personal development. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions timeless values in a modern context.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its nearly thousand-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The transfer of the title to its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised by The Crown, with notice published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed with extensive landholdings. - Notable predecessors holding the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com