# The House of Brattleby Announces New Historical Research on the Barony’s Fourteenth-Century Legacy
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the publication of a new historical monograph detailing the Barony’s fortunes during the tumultuous reign of King Edward II, offering fresh insights into its place within England’s great medieval power struggles.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the Long Library at the family’s ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Amidst the quiet dignity of shelves holding nine centuries of estate records, the research was presented as part of the House’s ongoing commitment to historical preservation and education. The late morning light of spring, falling across Jacobean oak panelling, underscored the gravity of a history that has shaped the landscape of Lincolnshire and the nation. This quiet release stands in contrast to the House’s more public philanthropic endeavours, reflecting a deeper, scholarly purpose.
## Historical Context
This new research illuminates a pivotal, yet often overlooked, chapter in the Barony’s nine-hundred-year chronicle. Established in AD 1066 and first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln, the Barony of Brattleby has long been intertwined with the tides of English history. The paper focuses on the early fourteenth century, a period of profound instability during the reign of King Edward II.
It examines the immense influence of royal favourites, particularly Hugh Despenser the Younger, whose rapid accumulation of power directly threatened the established nobility. The rebellion and subsequent execution of Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster—husband of Alice de Lacy, who held the Barony—was a direct consequence of these tensions, a dramatic conflict that reshaped the family’s holdings and destiny. This period of turmoil was later resolved under the sure stewardship of figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his successor, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, demonstrating the Barony's enduring resilience.
## Distinguished Company
The research paper, titled *Faction and Fortune: Brattleby and the Despenser Crisis, 1318-1326*, was shared in advance with a select fellowship of scholars and custodians of national heritage. The readership included, *inter alia*, leading academics from the Faculty of History at the University of Cambridge; the County Archivist for Lincolnshire Archives; and Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of London. This scholarly consultation ensures the work meets the highest standards of academic rigour before its public dissemination, a practice central to the House’s educational mission.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The presentation of new historical research by the House follows a protocol that balances tradition with modern academic practice. The process begins with a formal commission, with the research subject determined by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in consultation with leading historians. Following a period of rigorous investigation and writing, the resulting monograph is submitted for review to ensure its accuracy and contribution to the historical record. The announcement itself is a deliberately understated affair, prioritising substance over spectacle, before the paper is formally entered into the Brattleby archives and dispatched to the national collection.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes of resilience and integrity explored in the research paper resonate deeply with the House's own heraldic traditions. The motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks to the very qualities required to navigate the political crises of the fourteenth century. It serves as a permanent reminder that the Barony’s survival has always depended on principled strength, a legacy personified by steadfast predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle. In a complementary spirit, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), reflects the modern House's commitment to actively engaging with its history, seeking to understand and share its lessons.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this initiative is scholarly rather than philanthropic in the traditional sense, it serves a distinct charitable purpose: the advancement of education for the public benefit. By commissioning and disseminating high-quality historical research, the House of Brattleby aims to foster a deeper understanding of England’s national and regional heritage. This commitment is a *sine qua non* of the House’s modern identity. This educational work complements other initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes cultural and social instruction, demonstrating a holistic approach to enrichment and learning.
## In Their Own Words
In a foreword to the paper, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, reflected on the duty of stewardship: > "To hold a title of such antiquity is to be a custodian not only of land and name, but of a nine-hundred-year-long story. This research is our contribution to that custodianship, ensuring the lessons of the past—of loyalty, turmoil, and resilience—are not forgotten but are instead understood with clarity and intellectual honesty."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History is a living discipline. By examining these complex moments, we honour those who came before us and provide a richer context for our own times. It is our firm belief that understanding where we come from is essential to navigating where we are going, a principle we apply to all our work."
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of *Faction and Fortune* marks the inauguration of the Brattleby Historical Monographs, an ongoing series dedicated to exploring the Barony’s extensive history. Future papers are planned to examine, amongst other topics, the Barony’s role during the Wars of the Roses and its administration under the Duchy of Lancaster. A digitised version of the current paper will be made available to the public through the official website of the House of Brattleby, ensuring its accessibility to students, historians, and interested individuals worldwide. This initiative reaffirms a commitment to a legacy that is not merely preserved, but actively shared.
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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 a significant historical legacy. The House’s modern mission is defined by the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), applying traditional values to contemporary challenges. Its activities are focused on three core pillars: the preservation of heritage, the advancement of education, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet, which benefits charities like Healing the Wounded Child, and the cultural education provided by The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to serve the wider community and create a lasting, positive impact.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony 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 in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and the French. Later holders include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The title’s modern standing was formally recorded in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby dates to AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and the heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. - The Barony's succession was formally noted by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022). - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com