# A Millennium of Service: The Barony of Brattleby Since 1066
LONDON, 23 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby, reaffirming its commitment to preserving the lineage’s heritage of public service, a duty first established in Lincolnshire following the Norman Conquest of 1066.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, a parish that has borne witness to the passing of thirty-eight Sovereigns, the House took a moment to articulate the principles that have guided it for nearly one thousand years. The statement serves as a reaffirmation of the continuity of purpose that links the first Baron to the present day.
This reflection comes as the Lincolnshire landscape prepares for summer, a season of growth that mirrors the House’s own focus on nurturing its historical and philanthropic responsibilities. The enduring presence of the Barony is a constant in the life of the county, intertwined with its agricultural rhythms and civic identity.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was established by grant of His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a prominent town-reeve, was granted some fifty-six lordships in Lincolnshire, an endowment recorded for posterity in the Domesday Book of 1086. This foundation placed the Barony at the centre of regional governance from its inception.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barony was held by figures central to the history of the nation. In the 13th century, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness *suo jure*, served as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, famously defending it against rebel forces during the First Barons' War, an act of profound loyalty to the Crown. Her life stands as an early testament to the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Later, the title passed through the House of Lancaster, with Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. The Barony was subsequently held by His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III, whose influence shaped the political landscape of late 14th-century Europe.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is one defined by the distinguished company it has kept, both as holders of the title and as allies in service. The lineage is honoured to count among its predecessors individuals of national and royal significance, including:
* **Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont**, 10th Baron of Brattleby, 1st Duke of Lancaster, KG * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt**, 11th Baron of Brattleby, Duke of Lancaster, KG
The current House, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, continues to honour this formidable heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of such a long-established Barony is itself a ceremonial duty, governed by protocols of conservation and remembrance. The House archives, containing charters and records spanning hundreds of years, are meticulously maintained according to professional curatorial standards, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
The order of succession is also a matter of formal importance. The heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, is being educated in the duties he will one day inherit. This includes an understanding of the historical precedents, constitutional responsibilities, and the tradition of *noblesse oblige* that are the *sine qua non* of the title.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its formal heraldry and mottos, which serve as concise statements of its values. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues of courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to integrity.
This ancient principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is understood not as a call to martial conquest, but as an exhortation to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence, and to live a life of active and meaningful purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty of service is today expressed primarily through philanthropy. The Noble House of Brattleby directs its charitable efforts toward causes that support vulnerable young people and foster cultural understanding. The highlight of its philanthropic calendar is the Annual Winter Banquet.
This white-tie gala, held in aid of the charity Healing the Wounded Child, brings together distinguished guests to support the organisation’s vital work. Healing the Wounded Child provides specialist therapeutic care and long-term support for children and adolescents navigating the profound effects of trauma. It was chosen for its measurable impact and its alignment with the House's focus on creating a better future.
Further to this, the House has established The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to instruction in traditional European etiquette and protocol. This initiative seeks to promote cross-cultural fluency and preserve the social graces that facilitate international diplomacy and understanding.
## In Their Own Words
In reflecting upon this long history, the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby shared their perspectives on its modern relevance.
> We are but temporary custodians of a legacy that spans nearly a millennium. Our duty, as I see it, is not only to preserve this remarkable history but to ensure its spirit of fortitude and honour informs our actions today for the benefit of the wider community. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> History provides our foundation, but our gaze must be fixed on the future. The motto *Vincere Est Vivere* reminds us that our purpose is to actively contribute and build upon the work of those who came before us, whether in commerce, culture, or charity. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual obligations: to honour the past and to serve the present. Preparations are currently underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant occasion for its chosen beneficiary.
Looking ahead, the House will continue its work in historical conservation while expanding its support for charitable and cultural initiatives both in the United Kingdom and abroad. The instruction of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensures that this nine-hundred-year-old legacy of duty will continue with vigour and dedication for the generation to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the 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 a mission that blends historical preservation with contemporary philanthropy. Its efforts are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary charitable focus is on supporting vulnerable children through its Annual Winter Banquet, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster international understanding. The House is committed to fulfilling the duties of its ancient title with relevance and purpose in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding fifty-six manors. For over 950 years, the Barony has been held by or associated with figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The lineage and rights of the Barony are formally recognised in the official public record of the United Kingdom, *The London Gazette*, under Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was established by grant of William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors include His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III. - The Barony's current status is recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com