# A Legacy of Stewardship: The House of Brattleby Affirms Its Unbroken Lineage Since 1066
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical dispatch from its archives, reaffirming the continuous line of stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby since its establishment in 1066 and reflecting upon its enduring commitment to national and local duty.
## The Occasion
From the Muniment Room at the family's historic seat in Lincolnshire, this communication marks the culmination of a significant archival review. As the autumn colours settle over the Brattleby estate, the House has taken this season of reflection to consolidate and share research into its own nine-hundred-year history, making connections between its foundational charters and its present-day responsibilities.
This dispatch is the first in a new series intended to illuminate the Barony's role in the life of the county and the kingdom. It is an occasion for scholarship rather than celebration; a quiet affirmation of the duties and privileges that have been upheld, *inter alia*, from the Norman Conquest to the modern era, under the guiding principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, a reward for fealty and a cornerstone of the new Norman order in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a testament to the Barony's initial power and strategic importance.
The lineage continued unbroken, passing from Colswein to the second Baron, Picot, whose tenure was critical for consolidating these vast landholdings and embedding the Barony within the intricate feudal structures of the Anglo-Norman realm. Later generations distinguished themselves through profound acts of service, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders in 1217.
The Barony later passed through marriage into the highest echelons of the English nobility. Its holders included Henry of Grosmont, the great 10th Baron, created 1st Duke of Lancaster and renowned as one of Europe's most accomplished diplomats and military commanders; his legacy was carried forward by his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of the English monarchy.
## Distinguished Company
The archival research underpinning this dispatch has been supported by the expertise of leading medievalists from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Curators and paleographers from The British Library have also provided invaluable consultation on the interpretation of primary source documents, including Pipe Rolls and original charters from the Plantagenet era.
This scholarly collaboration ensures that the history of the House of Brattleby is not merely preserved but understood within the broader currents of European history, contributing to the nation's collective memory.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Access to and handling of the Brattleby Archives adhere to a protocol of meticulous care, blending modern conservation science with the reverence due to such historic artefacts. Each manuscript, whether a vellum charter or a manorial court roll, is stored in a controlled, low-light environment.
Scholarly access is granted by formal application to the House Archivist. When a document is required for study, it is retrieved and presented in a dedicated research room, supported by bespoke foam cradles. The wearing of nitrile gloves is mandatory, and the use of pens is strictly forbidden; only soft graphite pencils are permitted for note-taking—a quiet ceremony of preservation that honours the materials and the history they contain.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring values of the House of Brattleby are enshrined in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided the actions of the Barons and Baronesses of Brattleby for centuries, from Nichola de la Haye's military fortitude to the steadfast public service of her successors. It speaks to a resilience of character and an unwavering commitment to integrity.
This ancient heritage is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto signifies a modern, dynamic spirit—the will to overcome challenges and to live a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the two mottoes reflect the House's unique position: rooted in honour, and dedicated to purposeful action in the world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House's commitment to its founding principles finds modern expression through its philanthropic work. The Annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala, is the centrepiece of the House's charitable calendar. This year's beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The charity was chosen for its vital work in strengthening the resilience of vulnerable children, giving them the fortitude to overcome adversity and build honourable, fulfilling lives. This focus on future generations is a core tenet of the House's modern mission, translating its historical legacy into tangible, positive impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the unbroken lineage, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To hold this title is to be a custodian of nine centuries of duty. When I read of the challenges faced by my predecessors, from Colswein to John of Gaunt, I am reminded that our fundamental responsibility remains the same: to serve with fortitude and honour, and to pass on this legacy stronger than we found it."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History is not a static object in a museum; it is a living force that informs our present and guides our future. By understanding and sharing the story of this Barony, we reaffirm our commitment not just to its past, but to the active role the House of Brattleby must play in the community today. It is in this service that we truly live."
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is committed to continuing its mission of preserving its heritage while serving the contemporary community. Work is already underway on future educational programmes designed to bring the history of Lincolnshire to a wider audience, both locally and internationally.
Conservation initiatives on the Brattleby estate continue to protect the natural and built environment for future generations. Meanwhile, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest expands its cultural and educational mission abroad. Preparations for the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet are also in progress, promising to build upon the success of previous years in support of vital charitable causes.
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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 Noble House of Brattleby pursues a modern mission guided by its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. The House is dedicated to the preservation of its unique nine-century heritage, active community service, and philanthropy, with a particular focus on the well-being of children. Through cultural initiatives such as the Annual Winter Banquet and educational enterprises like The Brattleby Club etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House translates its historical legacy into meaningful contemporary action, stewarding its responsibilities in Lincolnshire and beyond with a forward-looking vision that honours the past.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated castellane Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), the renowned soldier-diplomat Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and the influential royal prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The continuity and rights of the Barony are formally recognised and recorded in the official public record, with its modern status affirmed by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony's modern recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com