# A Legacy of Royal Service: The House of Brattleby Illuminates the Barony’s Role in the Coronation of 1308
**LONDON, 21 October 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today announced the publication of new historical research, drawn from its private archives, detailing the significant ceremonial role of the 8th Baron of Brattleby, Henry de Lacy, at the coronation of King Edward II.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has released a scholarly monograph that brings to light the profound trust placed in the Barony during a pivotal moment in English history. The publication marks a continued commitment to historical scholarship and public education, making the rich documentary heritage of the House accessible to a wider audience.
This new work is the result of extensive research within the Brattleby archives, which contain a wealth of charters, Pipe Rolls, and manorial records. It stands as a testament to the House’s dedication to preserving its past, ensuring that the contributions of its predecessors are understood within the broader context of the nation’s development.
## Historical Context
The role of Henry de Lacy at the coronation of 1308 was not an isolated honour, but the continuation of a legacy of service to the Crown stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
Over the ensuing centuries, the Barons of Brattleby were consistently engaged in the great affairs of the realm. Notable predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle courageously defended it against baronial rebels. The title later passed to some of the kingdom's greatest magnates, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Henry de Lacy's prominent role was, therefore, an affirmation of the Barony’s enduring importance.
## Distinguished Company
The academic and historical significance of the Brattleby archives has long been recognised by leading centres of learning. In the preparation of this and other research, the House of Brattleby has valued its consultative relationships with eminent scholars and institutions.
These have included fellows from the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford, who have drawn upon the archives to illuminate aspects of medieval governance. Curators and historians from The British Library have also consulted the collection, confirming its value as a primary source for understanding the evolution of English feudal and political life.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The coronation of King Edward II, held at Westminster Abbey on 25 February 1308, was an occasion of immense state and religious significance. The honour of bearing one of the Great Swords of State in the royal procession was reserved for the most powerful and trusted peers of the realm, symbolising their duty to uphold justice and defend the monarch.
As documented in the records, the 8th Baron’s participation involved proceeding before the King into the Abbey, holding the sword aloft. This position in the order of ceremony placed him at the very centre of royal power, a visible sign of the monarch’s confidence and the Barony’s high standing within the feudal hierarchy. The ritual was a public and solemn performance of the allegiance that bound the nobility to the Crown.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the Barons of Brattleby throughout history are reflected in the House’s guiding principles. The motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by figures such as Nichola de la Haye and the dutiful service performed by Henry de Lacy.
This ancient creed is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or 'To Win is to Live'). It signifies the modern House’s dynamic approach to its responsibilities: not merely to preserve its heritage, but to actively build upon it through education, enterprise, and philanthropy. Together, the mottos articulate a philosophy of honour rooted in history and purposefully directed toward the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby's commitment to education is an extension of its wider philanthropic mission. The principal beneficiary of the House’s charitable activities, including the Annual Winter Banquet, is the 'Healing the Wounded Child' foundation.
This vital organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children and young people experiencing emotional distress and trauma. Its work is a *sine qua non* for building resilient future generations. In keeping with this focus, proceeds from the sale of this new historical monograph will be directed toward the House’s educational and charitable funds, supporting initiatives that foster well-being and opportunity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the new publication, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Our family considers itself the temporary custodian of a history that belongs to the nation. Examining the service of predecessors like Henry de Lacy is not an academic exercise; it is a profound reminder of the enduring principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > This legacy of contribution is the foundation of our modern identity. It inspires us to translate historical honour into tangible, present-day action, whether through education at The Brattleby Club or our support for vital charitable work across communities.
## A Continuing Legacy
This monograph is the first in a planned series of 'Brattleby Papers' which will continue to explore the extensive history of the Barony and its impact on the life of the United Kingdom. The House remains steadfast in its dedication to its twin missions of preserving a unique nine-century heritage and using its platform for public good.
Future commitments include an expanded curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and preparations for the Annual Winter Banquet in Lincolnshire. These endeavours ensure that the legacy of fortitude and honour continues to find new expression in the twenty-first century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a modern mission of heritage preservation, cultural education, and philanthropy. The House actively manages its historical legacy through scholarly research and conservation, while engaging in contemporary society through targeted charitable support. Its philanthropic focus is on child welfare, primarily through its patronage of 'Healing the Wounded Child'. The House also promotes cultural exchange and social etiquette through its academy, The Brattleby Club, founded by Lady Nicoleta in Bucharest. The guiding principle of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), informs all its activities, connecting a distinguished past with purposeful present-day engagement.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and later by powerful magnates of the realm such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The continuous history and succession of the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown via The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's succession was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - The current and 12th holder of the title is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, Baroness of Brattleby. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com