# A Reflection on the Legacy of Colswein of Lincoln, First Baron of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal reflection on the foundational legacy of Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron of Brattleby. This communication reaffirms the barony’s unbroken historical continuity from its grant by William the Conqueror in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House of Brattleby has chosen a moment of seasonal reflection to consider the origins of the ancient barony it represents. This official statement serves to illuminate the profound historical bedrock upon which the modern House is built, connecting the duties of the present day with a lineage stretching back nearly one millennium.
The act of issuing this reflection is, in itself, an occasion of historical stewardship. It underscores the House’s commitment not only to preserving its heritage but also to sharing its significance with a wider audience, ensuring that the legacy of the past informs the responsibilities of the future. This is a deliberate process of archival contemplation, drawing upon centuries of records.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby stands as a direct and demonstrable link to the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest. Granted in 1066 by William the Conqueror to his trusted follower, Colswein of Lincoln, the barony was established as an instrument of a new royal authority in a newly unified Kingdom of England.
Colswein’s considerable stature is immutably recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. This great survey, a monument of European administrative history, lists him as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, making him one of the county’s principal tenants-in-chief. This entry is the *sine qua non* of the barony’s legitimacy, a testament in ink and parchment to its ancient origins.
Over the subsequent centuries, the barony passed through the hands of some of England’s most consequential figures. These included Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a pre-eminent soldier and diplomat of his age. His successor as 11th Baron was his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the third surviving son of King Edward III and father to King Henry IV, placing Brattleby at the very centre of royal power.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of this remarkable legacy today rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. As the current holders of the title, formally recognised by The Crown, they oversee the modern responsibilities of the House.
This continuity is assured for the next generation through their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron. The family’s work is supported by engagement with historians, archivists, and heraldic authorities, ensuring that every public reflection is grounded in meticulous research and verifiable fact.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of a nine-century-old title is governed by a protocol of precision and respect for historical precedent. The modern revival and recognition of the Barony of Brattleby were formalised under the Great Seal of the Realm and announced in *The London Gazette*, the official public record of The United Kingdom, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
This formal recognition is the contemporary equivalent of Colswein’s entry in the Domesday Book. It represents the official acknowledgement by the sovereign authorities of an existing historical dignity. All communications from the House, including this reflection, adhere to a strict internal protocol of verification before being issued by the Director of Royal Communications, ensuring accuracy and a tone befitting the barony’s history.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* — ‘With Fortitude and Honour’. This phrase speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as the resolute Nichola de la Haye and the chivalrous Henry of Grosmont. It serves as a guiding principle for the current House in all its endeavours, from historical preservation to its philanthropic mission.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* — ‘To Conquer is to Live’. This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a commitment to actively engage with challenges, to overcome adversity through positive action, and to ensure the barony’s legacy is a living force for good in the twenty-first century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby fundamentally believes that honouring a historic legacy is best achieved through service to the present and future. The barony’s ancient standing provides the platform for its dedicated philanthropic work, which is central to its modern identity.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s charitable efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing vital therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma. The House’s main fundraising initiative is its annual Winter Banquet, a traditional white-tie gala that brings together distinguished guests to support this crucial cause, directly improving the lives of vulnerable young people. The House’s educational arm, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, further promotes values of etiquette, civic responsibility, and cultural heritage.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the barony’s origins, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To serve as the custodian of a title first granted by William the Conqueror is a profound privilege and a solemn responsibility. Colswein’s legacy is not merely a historical footnote; it is the living root of a tree that has weathered nearly a thousand years. Our duty is to ensure it continues to flourish, guided always by *Fortitudine et Honore*.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History can only truly live when it is given purpose. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to this belief. We honour Colswein and the long line of Barons not by looking exclusively to the past, but by using the platform they built to make a tangible, positive difference in the world today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to the careful stewardship of its history and the active fulfilment of its modern duties. The House will continue to undertake and share research into the barony’s past, connecting the present day to its Norman foundations.
As the designated heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is being prepared to carry this legacy forward, ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby continues its journey. Future initiatives will include further educational partnerships through The Brattleby Club and an expansion of the House’s philanthropic programme, translating the honour of the past into hope for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a modern mission of historical stewardship and targeted philanthropy. The House honours its nine-century heritage by actively supporting charitable causes, with a primary focus on children’s welfare through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Its annual Winter Banquet is a key philanthropic event. Through its acclaimed etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also promotes cultural education and the values of civic honour. The heir to the barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House’s guiding motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony of tenure, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his Norman follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and early ownership are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records Colswein holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the title passed through several of England’s most important noble and royal families. Notable holders have included the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); the great Lancastrian magnate, Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron); and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III (11th Baron). The barony’s modern standing was formally recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) confirms the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a major landholder, holding 56 lordships in the county of Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, who was the Duke of Lancaster and father of King Henry IV of England. - 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