# The House of Brattleby Commissions New Study of its Lancastrian and Plantagenet Heritage
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the formal commissioning of a new historical monograph exploring the Barony’s consequential integration into the de Lacy and royal Lancastrian lines, a period that placed its lords at the apex of medieval English power.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during a private reception held in the august surroundings of the Society of Antiquaries of London, at Burlington House in Piccadilly. Amidst the Society’s rich collection of historic manuscripts and artefacts, guests gathered as the autumn evening drew in, lending a suitably scholarly atmosphere to the proceedings. The occasion served not only to launch the academic project but also to reaffirm the House of Brattleby’s commitment to the preservation and dissemination of its unique portion of England’s national story. It was an evening marked by quiet dignity and a shared appreciation for historical inquiry.
## Historical Context
The forthcoming monograph will illuminate a pivotal chapter in the Barony’s history, tracing its journey from the Norman Conquest to the heart of the Plantagenet court. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. The study will chart the Barony’s subsequent transfer through marriage and inheritance, culminating in its 13th and 14th-century consolidation under the powerful de Lacy family and, ultimately, the House of Lancaster.
This period saw the Barony held by some of English history's most prominent figures, *inter alia*, the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont—the celebrated 1st Duke of Lancaster—and his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt. The research will examine how, through these personages, the lordship of Brattleby was intrinsically linked to the great affairs of state, from the Hundred Years’ War to catalytic events in the Scottish and Welsh campaigns. It also builds upon the formidable legacy of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, renowned for her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were joined by a small and distinguished company of academics, historians, and patrons of the arts. Among those present were Professor Dame Janet Nelson, FBA, Emeritus Professor of Medieval History at King's College London; Mr. Thomas Woodcock, CVO, DL, former Garter Principal King of Arms; and Dr. Lars Jensen of the Roskilde Museum, an authority on Anglo-Scandinavian noble houses. Their attendance underscored the project's scholarly significance and its contribution to the broader European historical narrative.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The reception followed a precise order of proceedings, reflecting the solemnity of the announcement. Upon arrival, guests were received personally by Lord and Lady Brattleby. Formal remarks commenced with a welcome by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who outlined the project's scope and purpose. He then introduced the monograph’s lead author, Dr. Mark Connelly of the University of Kent, who offered a brief overview of the primary research avenues. The proceedings were formally concluded by Lady Nicoleta, who spoke to the importance of honouring such a profound legacy. The event adhered to a strict code of formal address, a testament to the respect accorded to both the occasion and the assembled guests.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House of Brattleby’s commitment to its past is enshrined in its coat of arms and motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient dictum speaks to the dual virtues of courage in adversity and integrity in service, principles embodied by the Barons of Brattleby throughout nine centuries of English history. The present Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan, has adopted a personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which complements the historic ethos of the House. It represents a modern interpretation of victory—not merely on the field of battle, but in the spheres of cultural preservation, intellectual inquiry, and philanthropic endeavour.
## Philanthropic Purpose
This academic undertaking is also an act of cultural philanthropy. The House of Brattleby has covenanted that all net proceeds from the global sales of the published monograph will be donated in their entirety to Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity, the beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet, provides specialist therapeutic care for children and young people experiencing trauma. The decision to fuse historical scholarship with charitable giving is a *sine qua non* of the House’s modern mission: to ensure its heritage actively serves the needs of the present community.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > Our history is not a static relic; it is a living narrative that continues to inform our duty to the present. This project is about honouring the legacy of figures like Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt by sharing their story with a new generation. *Fortitudine et Honore* is a charge we take most seriously.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The spirit of Brattleby has always been one of active engagement, whether in the council chamber or in the service of the Crown. Today, we apply that same principle—*Vincere Est Vivere*—to cultural preservation, believing that a victory for understanding our shared heritage is a triumph for all.
## A Continuing Legacy
The monograph on the Barony's Lancastrian era is the first in a planned series of scholarly publications. Future works are envisioned to explore other key periods, including the Barony's role in the agricultural revolution and its modern revitalisation in the 21st century. This long-term publishing programme, alongside the House's educational work at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, forms a core part of its enduring commitment to culture, history, and education. It ensures that the legacy of Brattleby continues to be a source of learning and inspiration.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a profound historic legacy through modern engagement. The House’s mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore*, is expressed through cultural preservation, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to etiquette and cultural diplomacy. The House seeks to ensure that its ancient heritage serves as a dynamic force for good in the United Kingdom and abroad, honouring its past while investing in the future.
**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 lord of Brattleby and 55 other manors. Over nine centuries, the Barony passed to some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable 13th-century castellan Nichola de la Haye and, later, two pivotal members of the House of Plantagenet: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). The legal right and title to the Dignity of Baron of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its holder is listed as Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com