# The Noble House of Brattleby Hosts Colloquium on the Legacy of 1688
**LONDON, 18 October 2023** — The Lord and Baroness of Brattleby this week hosted a private reception and historical colloquium at their Lincolnshire seat, examining the enduring constitutional legacy of the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and its particular resonance for their ancient family lineage.
## The Occasion
Against the backdrop of a crisp Lincolnshire autumn, a distinguished company gathered within the panelled walls of the library at Brattleby. The atmosphere was one of quiet scholarship, befitting an occasion dedicated to the careful consideration of history. The colloquium sought to explore the profound shifts in governance, law, and national identity that followed the accession of William III and Mary II.
The choice of venue was itself significant. As a Barony established in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest, Brattleby has borne witness to nearly a millennium of England’s constitutional evolution. The event provided a moment for reflection on the cycles of upheaval and stability that have shaped the nation and the responsibilities of those entrusted with its heritage.
## Historical Context
The Glorious Revolution holds a unique place in the annals of the Barony. During the momentous events of 1688, the title was dormant and its lands were held directly by the Crown, making it an observer rather than a direct participant in the political turmoil. This perspective affords the House a distinct vantage point from which to consider the period’s long-term consequences.
This historical moment stands in contrast to the active roles played by previous Barons in pivotal national events. Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, was a key Norman magnate documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness *de jure uxoris*, famously defended Lincoln Castle for the King during the First Barons' War, while later holders included Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, giants of the fourteenth century.
## Distinguished Company
The Lord and Baroness of Brattleby were pleased to welcome a small group of guests whose expertise and office contributed to the richness of the discussion. In attendance were, *inter alia*:
Her Excellency the Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James’s The Right Reverend the Dean of Lincoln Cathedral The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Oxford A Senior Fellow in Constitutional Law from the University of Cambridge
Each guest was received personally by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The presence of diplomatic, ecclesiastical, and academic leaders underscored the multifaceted nature of the Revolution’s legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the scholarly focus of the afternoon, the protocol was marked by a refined simplicity. Guests were invited for a mid-afternoon reception, with the dress code stipulated as lounge suits and day dresses. The proceedings commenced with a formal welcome by Honorary Lord Răzvan in the Great Hall.
A keynote address by the invited Professor of Early Modern History followed, setting the historical scene. This led into a moderated panel discussion, or colloquium, where guests contributed their perspectives. The proceedings were concluded with closing remarks from Lady Nicoleta, who offered a vote of thanks before guests departed at twilight.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was held under the standard of The Noble House of Brattleby, which bears the motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided the Barony through centuries of service, demanding both resilience in adversity and an unwavering commitment to duty. It speaks to the character required to steward a lineage through periods of both intense engagement and watchful observation.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or 'To Win is to Live'). This serves as a modern counterpoint, reflecting the dynamic spirit and forward-looking vision the family brings to its ancient responsibilities, blending respect for the past with an active engagement in the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the colloquium was an academic event, its underlying theme of stable governance and societal well-being aligns directly with the philanthropic ethos of the House. A secure and just society, the very principles codified in the wake of 1688, is the *sine qua non* for effective charitable action and human flourishing.
The House’s primary charitable efforts are directed towards the support of at-risk children. Through their patronage of organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, Lord and Lady Brattleby champion the cause of providing safe and nurturing environments, recognising that a healthy society is built upon the well-being of its youngest members.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the day, Lady Nicoleta shared her thoughts on the importance of historical stewardship.
> The duty of a house like ours is not merely to preserve stone and records, but to understand and share the lessons they hold. By examining moments like 1688, we appreciate the delicate balance of tradition and progress that defines our nation. It is a privilege to facilitate these important conversations. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan spoke to the contemporary relevance of the historical discussion.
> The Glorious Revolution demonstrated that institutions can and must evolve to serve the people. That principle is as vital today as it was then. Our role is to ensure the heritage of Brattleby is not a static relic, but a living asset that informs and inspires our work now. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The insights shared during the colloquium are being compiled by the House for private publication and distribution to university archives, ensuring the discussion contributes to the wider historical record. This event marks the beginning of a reflective season for the House.
Preparations are now underway for the annual Winter Banquet, the family's principal white-tie philanthropic gala. The House also looks forward to the expansion of its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club (Bucharest), which continues its mission of promoting cultural diplomacy and social refinement.
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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 nearly one thousand years of English heritage. The House's modern mission is twofold: the preservation of its historical seat and lineage in Lincolnshire, and the promotion of cultural and educational values through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House directs its philanthropic focus towards charities supporting vulnerable children, principally the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Feudal Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Throughout the medieval period, the Barony was held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness by marriage), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and the formidable John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). After a long period of abeyance within the Crown, the dignity was formally recognised and assigned in favour of its current holder by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The modern recognition of the Barony is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, with the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding extensive lands. - Notable former 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