# A Heritage Review: The Barony of Brattleby During the Glorious Revolution of 1688
**LONDON, 21 October 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical review concerning the Barony of Brattleby’s status during the Glorious Revolution of 1688, a period of significant national upheaval that saw the transfer of the Crown.
## The Occasion
In the crisp air of late autumn, a season traditionally dedicated to reflection and scholarship, The Noble House of Brattleby continues its commitment to historical stewardship by publishing this detailed review. The research illuminates a lesser-known period in the Barony’s long history, offering a valuable perspective on the endurance of ancient titles through the crucible of English political change.
This communication, prepared with academic rigour, seeks to enrich the public record and provide a deeper understanding of the almost millennial-long narrative of the Barony. It serves as a testament to the House’s belief that to comprehend the present, one must diligently chronicle the past.
## Historical Context
The Glorious Revolution of 1688, which saw His Majesty King James II replaced by their Majesties King William III and Queen Mary II, was a defining moment for the governance and land tenure of the Kingdom. At this juncture, the Barony of Brattleby, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, was in a period of long dormancy, its title and lands having escheated to the Crown several centuries prior.
This reversion to Crown ownership can be traced to the Barony’s close association with the House of Lancaster. Following the tenure of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby *jure uxoris*, the title was absorbed into the vast estates of the Duchy of Lancaster, which subsequently merged with the Crown when Gaunt’s son ascended the throne as King Henry IV. Consequently, during the events of 1688, the lands of Brattleby were Crown property, making the Barony an observer to, rather than an active participant in, the national transfer of power.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1688 were shaped by monumental figures whose actions directly influenced the status of all Crown lands, including those of Brattleby. The principal actors were, of course, His Majesty King James II of England and VII of Scotland, and their Majesties King William III and Queen Mary II, whose joint accession marked the dawn of a new constitutional settlement.
Though dormant at the time, the Barony’s lineage includes personages of equal historical weight whose earlier stewardship secured its legacy. These include Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron who received 56 lordships from William the Conqueror; the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the aforementioned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The preparation and release of a historical review by The Noble House of Brattleby adheres to a strict internal protocol. This process mirrors the meticulous standards of archival institutions such as The National Archives and the College of Arms, ensuring that all communications are rooted in verifiable fact and presented with appropriate gravitas.
The research phase involves a thorough examination of primary and secondary sources, followed by a drafting process that prioritises clarity, accuracy, and a tone befitting the House’s heritage. The final document receives the formal assent of the Baroness before being issued by the Press Office. This disciplined procedure is a *sine qua non* for maintaining the historical integrity associated with the Barony.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), finds particular resonance in the context of the Barony’s dormancy. It speaks to a form of resilience that is not always active or martial, but is instead characterised by patient endurance and the preservation of honour through centuries of quietude. The ability of the title to withstand such long periods of abeyance is a testament to its inherent fortitude.
This historic motto is complemented by that of the Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This more dynamic, modern maxim reflects the House’s current active role in commerce, philanthropy, and cultural education, suggesting that historical fortitude now provides the foundation for present-day achievement.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this review does not carry a direct fundraising objective, its publication is an act of cultural philanthropy. By investing in historical research and sharing its findings with the public, The Noble House of Brattleby contributes to the preservation and understanding of local Lincolnshire and wider English heritage.
This educational mission is a core tenet of the House’s public duty. It aligns with the work of its other ventures, *inter alia*, the annual Winter Banquet benefiting charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and the educational work of The Brattleby Club. The belief is that a clear understanding of history provides society with the tools for a better future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the review, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “Understanding the Barony’s quiet centuries is as vital as celebrating its moments of prominence. Its dormancy in 1688 is a powerful lesson in institutional resilience. It is our duty, as current custodians, to chronicle every chapter of this extraordinary nine-hundred-year story with diligence and respect.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby, added: > “The Barony’s ability to endure periods of historic change demonstrates a foundational strength. Today, we build upon that strength not as passive observers, but as active participants in our community. Our heritage gives us the platform—and the responsibility—to make a positive contribution.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This heritage review is the first in a planned series of historical publications from The Noble House of Brattleby. Future research will explore other significant eras and individuals, including a more detailed study of Nichola de la Haye’s command of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons’ War, and the Barony’s economic significance under Henry of Grosmont.
These publications will form a key part of the House’s commitment to education and historical preservation, ensuring the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby continues to be understood and appreciated by future generations in Britain and beyond.
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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 the modern embodiment of one of England’s most ancient titles. With a guiding motto of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural stewardship, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, which supports organisations dedicated to children’s welfare, including Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also works to promote classical etiquette and leadership skills, bridging its historic English roots with a forward-looking, international perspective.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including the celebrated stateswoman Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century, and, through marriage, two of the most powerful nobles of the late Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After a long period in abeyance, the title was restored, with its existence and rights formally recognised by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby was published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, with Colswein of Lincoln holding extensive lands. - Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, was a key figure in the First Barons' War and served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire. - Notable holders include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com