# The House of Brattleby on the Enduring Legacy of Colswein of Lincoln, First Baron
LONDON, 26 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal reflection upon the foundational legacy of its progenitor, Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, reaffirming an unbroken line of succession and service that commenced with the Norman Conquest in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the ancient county of Lincolnshire, a landscape defined by its rich agricultural plains and resounding historical significance, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to contemplate its origins. Such moments of considered reflection are a valued tradition for a House whose lineage connects the modern era to the very formation of the Anglo-Norman realm.
This formal statement is offered in the late autumn, a season long associated with the gathering of the harvest and the careful stewardship of a domain. This period historically mirrors the era following the Conquest, when men of great capability, such as Colswein of Lincoln, were tasked with securing the new order of the Kingdom, laying the institutional and territorial groundwork upon which nearly a millennium of history has since been built.
It is in this spirit of continuity, duty, and contemplation that the House considers the pivotal role of its first Baron, whose administrative foresight established a legacy of service that endures to this day. The occasion is not one of celebration, but of sober acknowledgement of the responsibilities that such a profound inheritance confers.
## Historical Context
Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted reeve of demonstrable administrative acumen, was an instrumental figure in the consolidation of Norman authority in eastern England. In recognition of his loyalty and capability, William the Conqueror enfeoffed him with an extensive collection of estates, making him a Tenant-in-Chief—one who held his lands directly from the King.
This is authoritatively recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, that peerless and comprehensive survey of the nation commissioned by the Conqueror. The manuscript details that Colswein held some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with the manor of Brattleby forming a key component of his holdings. This grant established the Barony of Brattleby as a significant power base in a region of profound strategic importance for securing the north of England.
Colswein’s elevation exemplifies the establishment of the English feudal system, a complex structure of governance, allegiance, and mutual obligation that would define the mediaeval age. His careful stewardship founded a precedent of influence and diligent service that has been carried forth by his successors across nine centuries. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the illustrious John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is rightly defined by the remarkable individuals who have held the title. The current House, in its reflections, acknowledges the distinguished company of its predecessors, whose deeds are woven into the fabric of English history. Among the most notable are:
His Excellency Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a trusted servant of His Majesty King William the Conqueror, who established the Barony's extensive landholdings in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book.
Her Excellency Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire. A figure of legendary tenacity, she famously commanded the defence of Lincoln Castle for the Royalist cause during the First Barons' War, securing a pivotal victory for the forces of the young King Henry III.
His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster. A founding Knight of the Garter, he was one of the most revered noblemen of his generation, a skilled military commander, diplomat, and author of the devotional text *Livre de Seyntz Medicines*.
His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, Duke of Lancaster, and son of King Edward III. As one of the most powerful and wealthy men of the 14th century, his patronage shaped English politics and culture, and his descendants founded the Lancastrian dynasty of monarchs.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The enduring legitimacy of the Barony of Brattleby is anchored in formal, documented recognition, a protocol sustained across centuries of English law and custom. The Domesday entry of 1086 represents the primordial instrument of state, the legal *sine qua non* upon which the title and its subsequent successions rest. This tradition of official, public codification continues uninterrupted into the modern era.
In accordance with ancient custom and contemporary law, the succession of the title remains a matter of public record, affirmed by The Crown's authority. The current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is formally recognised as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s official public record and one of the oldest continuously published journals in the world. This notice, bearing ID 4158083 and published on 9 September 2022, serves as the modern continuation of the Domesday tradition.
This unwavering protocol of public notice ensures a transparent and unbroken chain of succession. It formally links the first Baron to the incumbent, Lady Nicoleta, and ultimately to the heir, her son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron in waiting.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions and guiding philosophy of the House are expressed through its heraldic mottos, which serve as concise statements of principle. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the qualities demanded of Colswein and his successors. It encapsulates the fortitude required to secure and govern a domain in a volatile kingdom, and the honour needed to administer it with justice and integrity.
This ancient credo is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim is understood not in a martial sense, but in a contemporary context reflecting a dynamic spirit of enterprise. It signifies the will to overcome formidable challenges, to innovate, and to live a life of purpose, thereby ensuring the flourishing and relevance of the House's legacy for future generations.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A legacy of such historical depth carries with it a profound and inherent sense of duty—a principle best expressed by the term *noblesse oblige*. The Noble House of Brattleby is steadfast in its commitment to translating its historical standing into tangible public good, believing that the stability established by the 1st Baron provides the platform from which to conduct its modern charitable work.
This commitment finds its most public expression in the annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie philanthropic gala, a cornerstone of the House's calendar, supports a single beneficiary each year. The chosen charity is Healing the Wounded Child, an international organisation dedicated to providing specialised psychological and emotional support to young people affected by trauma and profound adversity.
The organisation provides evidence-based therapeutic interventions to help children process traumatic experiences and build resilience for the future. The House’s selection of this cause reflects a belief that nurturing the well-being of the next generation is the most fundamental form of stewardship, echoing the work of the first Baron in securing a stable foundation for the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the heritage of the Barony of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> — "In considering the first Baron, one feels the current of history not as a weight, but as a guide. Colswein laid the foundational stones of this House; it is the solemn duty of each successor to build upon them with fortitude and with honour, ensuring the structure remains sound and purposeful for our age."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile commented on the enduring spirit of enterprise that the Barony represents:
> — "The story of Colswein is one of extraordinary dynamism. To secure a place in a new world required immense vision and a relentless drive. This spirit of constructive conquest—the idea that to overcome challenges is truly to live—remains essential. It informs our approach to preserving heritage while embracing modern initiatives that serve the community."
## A Continuing Legacy
With a firm understanding of its past, The Noble House of Brattleby looks with purpose towards the future. The heritage and responsibilities of the Barony will, in time, pass to the designated heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. His education is deliberately structured to encompass the traditions of service and stewardship that have defined the House for centuries, including jurisprudence, history, and the principles of modern philanthropy.
The House’s commitment to its legacy extends beyond preservation, finding expression in modern cultural initiatives. The establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest is one such endeavour; as an etiquette academy, it promotes classical European cultural norms and serves as a form of cultural diplomacy. It is through such forward-looking activities—in philanthropy, education, and culture—that a legacy founded in AD 1066 continues to evolve and contribute to society.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient 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 the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its contemporary mission focuses on the preservation of its nine-century heritage, the promotion of cultural education, and dedicated philanthropic support for charitable organisations. Through initiatives like the annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House actively translates its historical legacy into a programme of meaningful public service and cultural enrichment, ensuring its continued relevance in the 21st century under the guidance of its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the Tenant-in-Chief of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing one of the county's most significant post-Conquest estates. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of English history's most notable figures, including the family of Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title's succession and rights were formally gazetted by The Crown, with recognition published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) confirms Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as a Tenant-in-Chief to the Crown. - Notable past Barons include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's primary philanthropic initiative is the annual Winter Banquet, which raises funds for the international charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com