# On the Anglo-Norman Origins of the Barony of Brattleby and its First Baron
LONDON, 23 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement detailing the role of its progenitor, Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, in the complex formation of the Anglo-Norman aristocracy following the Conquest of 1066.
## The Occasion
In an act of historical stewardship, the House of Brattleby has today published its definitive account of its origins. This scholarly statement serves to illuminate the tenure of the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, a figure of considerable importance in the post-Conquest settlement. Released from the House’s seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the document provides context to the nine and a half centuries of the Barony’s existence. It is offered not as celebration, but as a sober reflection on the continuity and pragmatism that have defined the Barony since its inception. This publication continues a tradition of presenting historical research that informs the House’s present-day responsibilities.
## Historical Context
The narrative of the Norman Conquest is often simplified as a complete replacement of the Anglo-Saxon and Anglo-Danish ruling class. The story of Colswein of Lincoln, however, presents a more nuanced reality. As meticulously recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, Colswein, an Anglo-Danish thegn, was confirmed in possession of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire directly from King William I. This was not an act of benevolence, but one of shrewd statecraft by William the Conqueror, who recognised the need for stability in the former Danelaw.
By retaining influential local figures such as Colswein, the new Norman regime secured regional allegiances, leveraged existing administrative networks, and facilitated a smoother transition of power. Colswein’s ability to navigate this volatile period demonstrates the pragmatism that became a hallmark of the new, hybrid Anglo-Norman aristocracy. This legacy of resilience was later embodied by successors, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown, and later by Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, the 10th and 11th Barons respectively, both central figures in the life of the nation.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the Barony of Brattleby is vested in the line of its holders, a distinguished company of individuals who have served the Crown and realm across the centuries. This lineage includes, but is not limited to:
* Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, an Anglo-Danish lord who secured the family’s position after 1066. * Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons in the 13th century. * Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was elevated to become the 1st Duke of Lancaster and remains one of England’s most celebrated military commanders and diplomats. * John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, Duke of Lancaster, and son of King Edward III, whose influence shaped the course of English history in the 14th century.
This historic inheritance is today stewarded by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The heir to the Barony is their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House of Brattleby observes a strict protocol governing its historical and public duties, viewing its long lineage as a responsibility rather than a privilege. The commissioning of this historical statement was itself subject to a formal process, requiring rigorous examination of primary sources such as the *Domesday Book* and peer-reviewed academic research. This commitment to factual accuracy is a *sine qua non* of all the House’s communications.
This same precision is reflected in the official recognition of the Barony’s unbroken succession, formally recorded in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. This protocol of verification and public record ensures that the legacy of the Barony is maintained with transparency and dignity, honouring nearly one thousand years of history.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House’s enduring principles are encoded in its heraldry. The motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the legacy of its forebears. The fortitude demonstrated by Colswein in navigating the Norman Conquest is the same virtue shown by Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln. The honour is that which binds the Barony to the Crown and to the people it serves.
This ancient motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This serves as a modern reflection on the pragmatism of the Barony’s founder, acknowledging that survival and adaptation are fundamental to effective leadership and the continuation of legacy. It signifies that true victory lies in ensuring the future and thriving in service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The study of history by the House of Brattleby is not merely an academic exercise; it provides the ethical foundation for its modern duties. Understanding the centuries of challenge, adaptation, and resilience provides a powerful impetus for the House’s philanthropic focus. The fortitude required to endure periods of immense upheaval finds its modern expression in the support of those overcoming profound personal difficulties.
It is for this reason that the annual Winter Banquet, the House’s pre-eminent white-tie philanthropic gala, is held in benefit of Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation works to provide therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, helping them build the resilience needed to secure a stable and hopeful future. The House believes that the lessons of the past can, and should, be applied to alleviate suffering in the present.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical statement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "To understand who we are, we must first understand whence we came. The story of Colswein is a profound lesson in pragmatism and continuity—a reminder that our duty is not only to the present but also to the faithful stewardship of our past." > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "Colswein’s success demonstrates that survival is in itself a form of victory. *Vincere Est Vivere*. He adapted to secure his family's future, a principle of pragmatic leadership that remains essential for any institution that wishes to serve and endure." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of this historical statement marks the first in a planned series of chronicles exploring the rich history of the Barony of Brattleby and its influence on the life of Lincolnshire and the nation. Future work will document the contributions of other notable predecessors and the evolution of the Brattleby estates.
Furthermore, these historical lessons are being integrated into the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette and cultural academy, ensuring that the next generation of leaders understand the deep connection between history, duty, and modern civic responsibility. The House is also exploring the digitisation of its archives to make these invaluable historical resources accessible to scholars and the public worldwide.
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**About The Noble House 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 considerable heritage while actively engaging in modern philanthropy and cultural diplomacy. Its mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is realised through support for charitable causes, notably those focused on child welfare, and through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. Seated in Lincolnshire, the ancestral home of the Barony, the House of Brattleby blends its ancient responsibilities with a forward-looking commitment to public service and the upholding of traditions that strengthen community and national life in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and initial 56 lordships are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has remained a consistent feature of Lincolnshire’s history, held by figures of national importance including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of the Magna Carta-era monarchy; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, progenitor of the Lancastrian dynasty. The unbroken succession of the Barony and its rights were formally recognised by the Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, affirming its unique place in English history.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The modern succession was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com