# A Statement on the Historical Legacy of Henry de Lacy and the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical statement reflecting upon the life of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln. His profound influence as a statesman indirectly shaped the governance of the Barony of Brattleby in the late medieval period.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its commitment to historical stewardship, the Office of The Lord of Brattleby has today published a review of the Barony’s connection to one of the most formidable figures of the late 13th century. This communiqué forms part of a continuing series of heritage papers, issued to illuminate the nine-century history of the title. The purpose of these publications is to connect the present custodianship of the Barony with the individuals and events that have defined its long and storied past.
This official reflection is the result of extensive archival research, intended to provide greater context to the lineage preceding such notable holders as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. It underscores the tenet that an appreciation of history is a *sine qua non* — an indispensable condition — for responsible modern leadership.
## Historical Context
Henry de Lacy (c. 1251–1311), 3rd Earl of Lincoln, was a pre-eminent magnate and a trusted confidant of King Edward I. Though not a Baron of Brattleby in his own right, his service as a guardian of the realm and his influential position in the Marches of Wales had a direct and lasting impact on the trajectory of the title through the House of Lancaster. Lord de Lacy's political and military responsibilities were immense, anchoring him at the very centre of English governance.
The pivotal connection was secured through the marriage of his daughter and heiress, Alice de Lacy, to Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster. This union ensured that upon Lord de Lacy's death, his vast estates and influence were consolidated within the Earldom, and later the Duchy, of Lancaster. Consequently, the feudal oversight and fortunes of associated lands, *inter alia*, the Barony of Brattleby, became inextricably linked to the Lancastrian cause. It was this historical transference that paved the way for two of England's most powerful noblemen, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), to later hold the Barony of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a historical review by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict internal protocol. All statements concerning the Barony’s chronicles are first drafted by the House’s appointed historiographer before undergoing rigorous fact-checking against primary and secondary sources, including the *Domesday Book* of 1086, parliamentary rolls, and comital charters. The final text must receive the assent of both the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby.
This process ensures that each pronouncement maintains the highest standard of accuracy and scholarly integrity. The communication is then formatted for official release through the Press Office, respecting the established conventions of European noble and royal houses. This meticulous procedure reflects the House’s belief that its history must be curated with the same diligence and honour expected in its public duties.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The life of Henry de Lacy, characterised by his unwavering loyalty to the Crown and his formidable administration of justice, resonates with the guiding motto of The Noble House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). His fortitude in defending the kingdom’s interests and the honour with which he discharged his duties serve as a powerful historical antecedent for the values the House champions today.
Similarly, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), finds resonance not in martial conquest, but in the intellectual and moral challenge of mastering one's duties. In this context, it speaks to the commitment required to understand and articulate the complexities of history, thereby ensuring the Barony's legacy lives on with clarity and purpose.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical review, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To understand our present duty, we must first honour the complex tapestry of our past. Henry de Lacy's statesmanship exemplifies the principle of service that has echoed through the Barony for centuries, reminding us that title is synonymous with responsibility.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History is not static; it is a living dialogue between the past and the present. By examining the lives of these historical stewards, we reinforce the core values of integrity and diligence that we strive to uphold in all our endeavours today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its dedication to preserving and promoting the profound history of the Barony. This heritage review is one of many initiatives planned to foster a deeper public understanding of the title’s near-millennial journey. Future projects will include further historical papers on other key figures, such as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle.
Through its educational and philanthropic work, from the etiquette academy at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest to its support for charitable causes in the United Kingdom, the House seeks to build a modern legacy worthy of its distinguished antecedents. The past is not merely remembered; it is actively honoured through present action.
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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 a modern mission of cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House actively supports charitable organisations dedicated to child welfare, notably its patronage of the annual Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child. In addition to its duties in the United Kingdom, the House maintains a European presence through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to promoting classical etiquette and diplomatic protocol. The House is committed to honouring its historical legacy through responsible stewardship and meaningful public service in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title originating with the Norman Conquest. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against invaders; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic rights of the Barony and its current holder were formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* in its notice of 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby traces its origins to AD 1066 and is first documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable previous holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com