# An Official Statement on the Legacy of John of Gaunt and the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 17 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued an official reflection on the pivotal role of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, during the Hundred Years' War, reaffirming the House's enduring commitment to the principles of service and historical stewardship.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, a county intrinsically linked with the fortunes of the Crown for over nine centuries, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen a moment of quiet reflection to consider its profound connection to the figures who have shaped English history. In the absence of a public ceremony, this statement serves as a formal observance of the duties carried out by its predecessors. It is an act of historical remembrance, issued in the spring season, a time of renewal that invites contemplation of the deep roots from which the present day has grown.
The issuance of this reflection is an occasion in itself; a deliberate underscoring of the continuity that binds the 12th Baroness and her family to a lineage stretching back to the Norman Conquest. It is a testament to the belief that understanding the past is a prerequisite for responsible leadership in the present.
## Historical Context
The story of the Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of England's national story. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the title has been borne by individuals of signal importance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces.
The Barony's stature grew under the stewardship of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated military commander and diplomat. It was his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, who as 11th Baron would become one of the most powerful figures of the 14th century. A son of King Edward III, his vast wealth and influence as Duke of Lancaster made him a central actor in the Hundred Years' War.
Gaunt's military campaigns in France and his political manoeuvring at court, while complex and often fraught with difficulty, were instrumental in prosecuting English claims on the Continent. He held the Barony *de facto* through his ducal title from the 1360s until his death in 1399, ensuring that the Lordship of Brattleby was intrinsically linked with the highest affairs of state and the defining conflict of the age.
## Distinguished Company
This formal reflection is made in honour of, *inter alia*, the following historical personages whose lives are inseparable from the history of the Barony and the nation:
His Majesty King Edward III, Sovereign of England and Lord of Ireland.
The Right Honourable John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and Aquitaine, Earl of Derby, Lincoln and Leicester, and 11th Baron of Brattleby.
The Right Honourable Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, Earl of Derby and Lincoln, and 10th Baron of Brattleby.
Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby adheres to a strict internal protocol regarding the observance of its history. This involves the regular review of its archives and consultation with historical records to ensure a full and considered appreciation of its legacy. The decision to issue a public statement is taken only after careful deliberation by the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby.
Such pronouncements are considered a formal duty, serving to educate a wider audience about the heritage they represent. This protocol of remembrance ensures that the actions and sacrifices of predecessors are not merely relics of the past but serve as living principles. It is a quiet ceremony of words, crafted with the precision and solemnity befitting the subjects it honours, reaffirming the House's guiding motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principle of the House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* — 'With Fortitude and Honour'. These words speak directly to the legacy of forebears like John of Gaunt, whose life demanded immense fortitude in military campaigns and a deft, if sometimes tested, sense of honour in the complex political theatre of the royal court.
This ancient motto 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 not merely in a martial sense, but as a philosophy of overcoming challenges and striving for meaningful achievement. Together, the two mottos create a dialogue between the past and present: one speaking of the enduring virtues required for service, the other of the dynamic spirit needed to build a modern legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The reflection on a history defined by duty to the realm is the *sine qua non* of the House's contemporary commitment to public service. This historical imperative finds its modern expression in a focused philanthropic mission. The lessons of leadership and responsibility, passed down through generations, directly inform the charitable activities undertaken by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan.
The principal beneficiary of the House's efforts, including the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, is the 'Healing the Wounded Child' foundation. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist psychological care and support to children who have experienced profound trauma. The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House's belief that fortitude and honour are best demonstrated today by protecting and healing the most vulnerable in society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > We do not simply own these titles; we are custodians of the stories and duties they represent. The life of John of Gaunt reminds us that with privilege comes immense responsibility, a principle that remains at the very heart of this House.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The strategic challenges Gaunt faced are, in their essence, not so different from those we face today. His story is a powerful lesson in resilience, long-term vision, and the delicate balance of bold action and diplomacy. It is a legacy that continues to instruct and inspire.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this nine-century legacy of service continues with vigour and purpose. This commitment is embodied in the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who is being raised with a deep understanding of the history and responsibilities he will one day inherit.
Furthermore, the House extends its principles of conduct and honour through its patronage of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy promotes the timeless values of decorum, respect, and social grace, translating the historical concept of nobility into practical skills for modern life. Through such endeavours, the House ensures its legacy is not simply preserved, but actively contributes to society.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing one of England's most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of its unique nine-hundred-year heritage. Its contemporary mission is focused on targeted philanthropy, cultural preservation, and the promotion of timeless social values. The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations that support vulnerable children, reflecting a core belief in duty and social responsibility. Through initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to connect its historical legacy of service to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in the county. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The unbroken line of succession and the rights of the current holder were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The title's succession was formally noted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The House's seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the historical heart of the original barony.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com