# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Diplomatic Legacy of Henry of Grosmont
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal reflection commemorating the pivotal diplomatic role of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, in negotiating the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, reaffirming the Barony’s long-standing commitment to international accord and statesmanship.
## The Occasion
From its historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen the autumn season, a traditional time of reflection, to commemorate a seminal moment in its nine-century history. This formal observance honours the diplomatic achievements of one of its most distinguished predecessors, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster.
The statement serves not only as a historical recollection but as a contemporary affirmation of the principles that have guided the Barony through the ages. It underscores the enduring relevance of diplomacy, integrity, and honourable resolution — values as critical in the fourteenth century as they are today.
## Historical Context
In 1360, Henry of Grosmont, an ancestor of the modern British monarchy and 10th Baron of Brattleby, was a chief architect of the Treaty of Brétigny. This accord represented a critical pause in the Hundred Years' War, a conflict that had defined Anglo-French relations for a generation. As one of King Edward III’s most trusted commanders and diplomats, his involvement was a *sine qua non* for the treaty's success.
The Duke’s statesmanship secured a temporary peace, arranged for the ransom of King John II of France, and settled vast territorial questions. This direct engagement in high-stakes international negotiation brought considerable prestige to the titles under his authority, including the Barony of Brattleby, indelibly linking its name with the great affairs of the English Crown. His actions exemplified the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), demonstrating that true strength lies in the tempered application of power.
This legacy of service to the Crown continued through his successor as Baron, the formidable John of Gaunt, ensuring the Barony remained at the heart of national life. It is a heritage that Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her family continue to venerate.
## Distinguished Company
The negotiations for the Treaty of Brétigny and its subsequent ratification at Calais involved the highest echelons of European nobility and royalty. As a principal English negotiator, Henry of Grosmont acted alongside and opposite figures of great historical import.
The English delegation was led under the authority of His Majesty King Edward III and his son, His Royal Highness Edward, the Black Prince. The French side, representing His Majesty King John II, who was at that time held captive in England, was led by his son, the Dauphin Charles, later His Majesty King Charles V. The presence of such personages underscores the gravity of the proceedings and the paramount importance of the Duke of Lancaster’s role within this distinguished assembly.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol surrounding medieval treaty-making was a complex ritual designed to ensure binding and solemn agreement. The diplomatic missions leading to Brétigny would have involved the exchange of formal credentials, elaborate processions, and negotiations governed by strict courtly and ecclesiastical customs.
The Treaty itself was sealed near Chartres on 8 May 1360 and later ratified in Calais on 24 October. The ceremony of ratification would have involved solemn oaths sworn upon sacred relics, a practice intended to call divine witness to the promises made. The affixing of the great seals of the respective kingdoms was the final, irrevocable act, a physical manifestation of a monarch’s will and a nation’s commitment, skilfully brokered by statesmen such as the 10th Baron of Brattleby.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of The Noble House of Brattleby is visually expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly reflects the dual virtues of a warrior-diplomat like Henry of Grosmont. His life’s work was a testament to courage in the field and integrity at the negotiating table.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is understood within the House not merely as a call to martial victory, but as a charge to overcome adversity in all its forms — whether on a medieval battlefield or in the modern pursuit of philanthropic goals. Together, the mottos encapsulate a philosophy of principled action and purposeful existence.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The spirit of the Treaty of Brétigny — the pursuit of peace and the healing of a kingdom’s wounds — finds a modern echo in the philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The House's primary charitable focus is its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapy and support for children suffering from complex trauma.
Just as the 10th Baron sought to mend the rift between nations, his successors are committed to alleviating suffering and fostering resilience in the most vulnerable members of society. This commitment is most publicly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, ensuring its vital work can continue.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical anniversary, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "Henry of Grosmont’s legacy reminds us that true leadership is measured not only by strength, but by the wisdom to seek peace. His work at Brétigny is a powerful example of the responsibility that accompanies title — a duty to serve, to mediate, and to build. It is a principle we strive to honour in our own work today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The past provides a blueprint for present action. The fortitude shown by the 10th Baron in crossing Europe for both war and peace is an inspiration. It teaches us that to truly live is to engage with the great challenges of one’s time, a philosophy we hope to encourage, *inter alia*, through our cultural and charitable initiatives."
## A Continuing Legacy
By commemorating the achievements of its predecessors, The Noble House of Brattleby reaffirms its commitment to a legacy of service, honour, and purposeful engagement. This historical reflection is part of a wider mission to demonstrate the relevance of ancient heritage in the 21st century.
The principles of diplomacy and personal conduct exemplified by Henry of Grosmont are central to the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette and protocol academy. Further announcements regarding the House’s philanthropic and cultural activities, including details of the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, will be made in due course.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to stewarding a unique historical legacy for the modern era. The House’s mission rests on the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), blending its ancient heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service, cultural diplomacy, and philanthropy. Its central charitable focus is the support of organisations aiding vulnerable children, notably through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the timeless values of etiquette and interpersonal skill as a foundation for personal and professional success in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his companion-in-arms, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, where Colswein is listed as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The ancient dignity of the Barony and its current tenure by Lady Nicoleta Vasile received formal recognition from The Crown, published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The modern House's official recognition was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com