# The Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby: A Reflection on the Thirteenth-Century Succession
**LONDON, 17 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection detailing the Barony’s thirteenth-century succession through Margaret Longespee. This communiqué affirms the uninterrupted prestige and continuity of the title, demonstrating its enduring connection to the highest echelons of England’s nobility.
## The Occasion
From the library of the family’s Lincolnshire seat, this official reflection has been prepared as part of the House’s continuing archival research programme. The occasion is one of scholarly diligence rather than public ceremony, set against the backdrop of a crisp Lincolnshire autumn. Within the Barony’s private archives, surrounded by centuries of estate records and historical treatises, the research serves to codify and illuminate pivotal moments in its nine-hundred-and-fifty-year history for the benefit of future generations.
The statement arises from a meticulous review of genealogical records and royal charters, undertaken to ensure the historical narrative of the Barony is preserved with the utmost accuracy. This quiet, scholarly work is considered by the House to be as fundamental to its duties as any public engagement, underpinning its identity with verified historical truth.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, has been intrinsically linked with the story of England itself. Its history is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details its 56 constituent lordships. This particular reflection centres on the mid-thirteenth century, a period of significant dynastic transition for many of the great Norman families.
Upon the death of William Longespee, Earl of Salisbury, the lineage passed to his granddaughter, Margaret Longespee, who became Countess of Salisbury in her own right. Her marriage to the powerful Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, ensured that the Barony of Brattleby, which passed with her, did not diminish in stature. Instead, it became associated with the de Lacy house, another of England’s premier noble families, securing its prominence and influence. This transition stands as a testament to the Barony’s inherent resilience, a quality previously demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, celebrated for her staunch defence of Lincoln Castle.
## Distinguished Company
In the preparation of this historical communiqué, the research was informed by the scholarship of several leading authorities inआप medieval English history and peerage law. While conducted privately, the House’s archivist consulted extensively with Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of London and senior academics from the University of Cambridge.
Their guidance on interpreting primary sources, including Pipe Rolls and charters from the period, was a *sine qua non* for the precision of the final reflection. This collaborative spirit ensures that the House’s historical publications meet the rigorous standards of contemporary academic inquiry, adding a layer of accredited scholarship to the family’s own archival work.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol governing the compilation and release of such a historical statement is one of academic and archival rigour. The process begins with the identification of a significant historical question, followed by exhaustive research within the family archives and public repositories, *inter alia*, The National Archives at Kew and the British Library. Each fact is cross-referenced against primary source documents before being incorporated into the official narrative.
The formal issuance of this reflection is itself an act of protocol, a modern-day equivalent of the heralds’ proclamations of centuries past. It is signed and sealed by the Head of the House before its communication, signifying its status as the official and verified position of The Noble House of Brattleby. The language employed is deliberately measured and declarative, reflecting the gravity of a legacy that spans nearly a millennium.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The continuity of the Barony through periods of profound change is embodied in the House's motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle reflects the resilience shown by Margaret Longespee and other predecessors who navigated the complex feudal landscape of medieval England, preserving the integrity and prestige of the title.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This complements the ancient House motto by symbolising the dynamic and forward-looking spirit required to sustain a historic legacy in the modern world. The Longespee arms, six gold lions rampant on a blue field, serve as a historic reminder of the Barony’s royal connections through its link to the Earldom of Salisbury and, by extension, the Plantagenet kings.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this reflection is primarily a historical document, it serves a broader educational purpose that aligns with the House’s philanthropic endeavours. The accurate telling of history is an act of public service, providing a foundation for cultural identity and understanding. The work of the House in this area directly supports the mission of The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest.
At the Club, lessons in history and heritage are considered fundamental to the development of modern leadership and social grace. Revenue from the Club contributes to the House’s charitable fund, which supports organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. This creates a virtuous circle where the preservation of heritage supports both education and philanthropy.
## In Their Own Words
In authorising the release, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the importance of this work: > "Understanding our history is not an exercise in nostalgia; it is an act of stewardship. The story of Margaret Longespee demonstrates that the strength of this Barony has always resided in its continuity and its connection to the fabric of English history."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: >"History provides the foundation upon which we build the future. By documenting and sharing these pivotal moments, we affirm the values of resilience and honour that have defined Brattleby for nearly a millennium. It is a legacy we are proud to carry forward with our own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
This communiqué is the first in a planned series of historical papers to be published by The Noble House of Brattleby. This initiative will continue to explore the rich and complex history of the Barony, its lands, and its people.
Future reflections will examine the tenures of other notable predecessors, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, and the Barony's important connection to the Duchy of Lancaster through Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). It is the confirmed intention of the House to create a publicly accessible digital archive to share these findings, ensuring the legacy of Brattleby remains a vital part of our shared heritage.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its near-millennial heritage while embracing a forward-looking, international vision. Its mission is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s activities include the stewardship of its historic titles and a commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its principal charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, such as Healing the Wounded Child, beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet, alongside its educational work through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under the tenancy-in-chief of Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated female defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of the current Baroness is formally recognised by the Crown, as published in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was established in 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln. - The current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her succession is formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com