# The Noble House of Brattleby Publishes Historical Review of the Barony’s Thirteenth-Century Royal Connections
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today published a historical review detailing the Barony’s significant role in thirteenth-century English court politics, a consequence of its close association with the influential Earls of Salisbury, William II and William III Longespée.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has issued a scholarly paper that illuminates a pivotal period in the Barony’s near-millennial history. The review, commissioned by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, was compiled from research into the House’s archives and chronicles of the period. Its publication reaffirms the House’s commitment to historical stewardship and its role as a custodian of a lineage extending back to the Norman Conquest.
This academic initiative aligns with the autumn season, a traditional time for reflection and scholarly pursuit. The research brings to light the intricate web of feudal loyalties and political alliances that positioned the Barony of Brattleby not merely as a landed estate, but as a participant in events that shaped the English Crown and nation.
## Historical Context
Established by charter of His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. While its history includes celebrated figures such as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle, the thirteenth-century period under the aegis of the Earls of Salisbury represents a moment of profound proximity to the throne.
During the reign of King Henry III, the Barony’s fortunes were intrinsically linked to the powerful Longespée family, Earls of Salisbury. William II and William III Longespée were central figures at court, serving as royal advisors and military commanders. Their influence meant that Brattleby, a component of their sphere of power, was frequently exposed to the highest levels of statecraft, *inter alia*, participating in the councils and campaigns that defined the era. This connection perpetuated a legacy of royal service later embodied by the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The historical review places the Barony of Brattleby in the context of the leading personalities of its time, whose actions directly influenced its standing and obligations. These personages, with whom the Barons would have interacted, included:
* His Majesty King Henry III of England * William Longespée, 3rd Earl of Salisbury, an illegitimate son of King Henry II and a key signatory of Magna Carta * William II Longespée, a celebrated English knight and crusader who fought at the Battle of Mansurah * Simon de Montfort, 6th Earl of Leicester, the leading figure in the baronial opposition to King Henry III
The Barony’s connection to such figures illustrates its integration within the fabric of the Anglo-Norman aristocracy and its relevance to the political currents of Plantagenet England.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the thirteenth century, the holder of the Barony of Brattleby would have navigated a highly structured court protocol. As a tenant-in-chief holding lands directly from the Crown, the Baron’s attendance at the *Curia Regis*, the King's Council, was both a right and a feudal duty. This required participation in the Great Councils that preceded the formation of Parliament, offering counsel on matters of war, taxation, and justice.
The protocol of homage and fealty — a solemn, public ceremony in which a vassal knelt before his liege lord, swearing loyalty — was the *sine qua non* of the feudal relationship. Furthermore, the Barony was subject to scutage, a monetary payment made in lieu of military service, and other feudal incidents that required precise and formal negotiation with the Royal Exchequer. Adherence to these complex protocols was fundamental to maintaining favour and influence at court.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of the Barons during this period perfectly illustrate an early expression of the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude of William II Longespée on crusade, and the honour required to serve as a trusted advisor to the King, reflect the enduring values that the House upholds to this day. A baron’s word, his oath, was his bond, and his honour was the currency of his influence.
Similarly, the motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), resonates with the existential realities of the thirteenth century. The political landscape required constant vigilance and strategic acumen to survive and prosper amidst the ambitions of rival lords and the demands of the Crown. The heraldic arms of the House thus serve as a visual chronicle of this enduring spirit.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The publication of this historical review is an act of educational philanthropy, intended to make the rich history of the Barony accessible to a wider public. While the medieval Barons served the Realm through military and political duty, the modern House of Brattleby expresses its service through charitable initiatives. The principles of duty and community support, once demonstrated on the battlefield or in the King’s Council, are now channelled into the House’s philanthropic endeavours.
The House’s foremost commitment is to its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialised therapeutic care for children affected by trauma, a mission the House believes is a modern embodiment of the ancient duty to protect the vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical review, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To study our history is to understand the enduring responsibility that comes with this title. The fortitude shown by our predecessors in service to the Crown and country is a powerful reminder of the values encapsulated in our motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. It is a legacy of duty we are determined to continue.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The thirteenth-century alliances were the *sine qua non* of political survival and influence. They demonstrate that strong relationships, built on a foundation of trust and shared purpose, remain the bedrock of any lasting legacy — as true in medieval statecraft as it is in modern philanthropy and diplomacy.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This review is the first in a series of historical publications planned by The Noble House of Brattleby. Future papers will explore other significant periods and figures in the Barony’s history, including the pivotal role of Nichola de la Haye during the First Barons' War and the Barony's connection to the House of Lancaster through John of Gaunt.
This scholarly agenda complements the House’s wider educational mission, which includes the activities of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Through this etiquette academy, the House seeks to promote the values of civility, honour, and cultural appreciation that are central to its continuing legacy.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of "Heritage with Purpose." It seeks to preserve its nine-century lineage while actively contributing to contemporary society through targeted philanthropy, cultural patronage, and educational initiatives. The House’s primary charitable focus is on supporting vulnerable children, principally through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child. Its educational outreach is led by The Brattleby Club, an academy dedicated to social etiquette and cultural refinement, with a chapter in Bucharest. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Held by some of English history’s most significant figures, the Barony has a distinguished legacy. Its holders include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, who became the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and patriarch of the House of Lancaster. The current title was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 by grant of His Majesty King William the Conqueror. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, and Nichola de la Haye. - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of The Noble House of Brattleby is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com