# A Millennium of Defence: The Martial Heritage of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 17 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting upon the extensive military history of the Barony of Brattleby. This follows new research into the barony's foundational role in the defence of the realm since its establishment in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
From the library at their Lincolnshire seat, against a backdrop of autumnal quietude, the Lord and Lady of Brattleby have chosen to illuminate the martial lineage that is a *sine qua non* of their ancient title. This reflection is prompted by the anniversary of the Domesday Book’s completion, the great survey of 1086 which first codified the barony's significant military and land-holding responsibilities under the Crown. The occasion serves not to glorify conflict, but to honour the unwavering fulfilment of feudal duty that has defined the barony across nine centuries.
This historical review traces the evolution of the Barons of Brattleby’s obligations, from the raising of Norman levies to their command roles in pivotal English and Continental campaigns. It is a testament to a heritage built upon the principle of service, a commitment that the House continues to uphold through its modern philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was from its inception a strategic bulwark. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a scale of holdings that underscored his importance in securing the newly conquered kingdom. This grant carried with it the solemn duty of knight-service, compelling the baron to provide armed and mounted soldiers for the king’s wars.
This martial responsibility was most vividly demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. A formidable figure in an age of men, she famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War, holding it for the Crown. Later centuries saw the barony pass to two of the most significant military commanders of the medieval period: Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the Hundred Years' War. Their leadership solidified the barony's reputation for martial prowess and loyalty.
## Distinguished Company
The historical record of the Barony of Brattleby is populated by figures of national and international importance, whose actions were instrumental in shaping the military and political landscape of their times. Among the most notable predecessors whose legacy the current House honours are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, created 1st Baron of Brattleby by William the Conqueror, whose extensive landholdings established the barony as a cornerstone of Norman power in the north of England. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who held the title *suo jure* (in her own right) and served as hereditary constable of Lincoln Castle, defending it with distinction in 1217. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, later created 1st Duke of Lancaster, one of England's most respected captains in the early campaigns of the Hundred Years' War and a key diplomat for King Edward III. * **John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby**, third surviving son of King Edward III, whose immense wealth and military influence made him one of the most powerful figures in late 14th-century Europe.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The feudal summons to war was a grave and highly formalised proceeding. A writ issued under the King’s Great Seal would arrive at Brattleby, commanding the Baron to present himself and his retinue of knights and men-at-arms at a specified muster point by a certain date. This was not a request but a legal and binding obligation.
Upon receiving the summons, the Baron would activate his network of vassal knights, who in turn owed him military service. The raising of the contingent involved the meticulous inspection of arms, armour, and horses. Each man would assemble under the banner of his liege lord, a visual declaration of allegiance, before marching under the Baron of Brattleby’s own standard. This procession, governed by strict rules of precedence and discipline, embodied the hierarchical structure of feudal society in motion.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are powerfully expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly speaks to the twin virtues demanded of a baron: fortitude on the battlefield and honour in the execution of one's duty to the sovereign and people. It is a concise articulation of the barony’s historical ethos.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this philosophy is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome adversity, to drive progress, and to prevail in the pursuit of noble objectives, *inter alia*, the family’s philanthropic initiatives. Together, the mottos create a dialogue between past duty and present purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of military conflict, with its profound impact on families and communities, informs the House’s contemporary commitment to healing. While the Barons of Brattleby once waged war, the current House wages a campaign for wellbeing, choosing as the annual beneficiary of its Winter Banquet the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides specialist therapeutic support to children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission is to restore a sense of safety and hope to the most vulnerable, addressing the deep wounds that can shape a lifetime. By directing its principal philanthropic efforts here, the House translates its historical role as a protector of the realm into a modern one as a guardian of childhood.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this long history of service, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To be the custodian of this title is to be perpetually aware of a nearly thousand-year chain of duty. The challenges have changed, but the fundamental obligation to serve with fortitude and honour remains. Where my predecessors defended castles, our task is to defend and nurture our shared heritage and the wellbeing of future generations."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The spirit of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about channelling resolve towards a positive purpose. The same determination that a commander required at Falkirk or Crécy can, and must, be applied today to overcoming social challenges. It is about having the courage to build, to heal, and to strive for a better future, which is the truest form of victory."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this remarkable legacy remains a living part of British history. This includes the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the profound responsibilities he will one day inherit. The House continues its work in the conservation of its archives and supports academic research into the barony's history.
Future initiatives will see the House develop educational materials for its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, focusing on the evolution of chivalry and codes of conduct from the medieval era to the present day. This commitment ensures that the lessons of the past continue to inform the leadership and service of tomorrow, keeping the flame of *Fortitudine et Honore* alight for the 14th Baron and beyond.
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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. 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 nine-century heritage and the active fulfilment of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's contemporary mission is focused on cultural education and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable vehicle is the annual Winter Banquet, which supports organisations dedicated to child welfare, such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of etiquette, protocol, and civic duty for a modern audience.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its history is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), the celebrated commander Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and the royal prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken succession of the title and its current holders are formally recognised by The Crown, as recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The succession of the title is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House is seated in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the ancestral home of the barony.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com