# On a Medieval Anniversary: The Role of the Barony of Brattleby at the Siege of Caerlaverock, 1300
LONDON, 23 May 2024 — On behalf of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon a formative episode in its history: the participation of a predecessor at the Siege of Caerlaverock in July 1300.
## The Occasion
In the high summer of 1300, a formidable English army under the command of King Edward I assembled before the walls of Caerlaverock Castle in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. This was a pivotal moment in the First War of Scottish Independence. The castle, a striking red sandstone fortress of unique triangular design, was a strategic southern stronghold of the Scots, guarding the Solway Firth.
The ensuing siege, though brief, was a signal event of medieval warfare, distinguished not by its length but by the prominence of its participants and the remarkable chronicle it produced. It is this moment of historical confluence—of chivalry, strategy, and statecraft—that the House of Brattleby reflects upon, acknowledging the role played by the Barony in the unfolding narrative of the British Isles.
## Historical Context
The lineage of the Barony of Brattleby, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is woven deeply into the fabric of English history. While the title has been held by formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle, and later passed through Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, it is the tenure of another predecessor that connects the House to this specific campaign.
Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln and a trusted commander for King Edward I, was a key figure at the siege. His presence, leading a contingent of knights and men-at-arms, firmly places the influence of the Barony’s antecedents at the heart of this significant medieval military enterprise. This participation underscores the Barony’s long-standing tradition of service and duty to the Crown, a principle that continues to guide the House today.
## Distinguished Company
The assembly before Caerlaverock comprised the very flower of English chivalry, a gathering of nobles whose banners represented the greatest houses of the realm. Fighting alongside Henry de Lacy were magnates of considerable power and influence, their presence recorded for posterity.
Amongst those present were His Majesty King Edward I himself, accompanied by his son, the young Prince of Wales, later King Edward II. They were joined, *inter alia*, by Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster; Humphrey de Bohun, 4th Earl of Hereford and Constable of England; and Aymer de Valence, 2nd Earl of Pembroke. The gathering was a testament to the gravity of the campaign and the King’s determination to assert his authority.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The conduct of a medieval siege followed a strict and elaborate protocol. Before hostilities commenced, a formal summons to surrender would have been issued by the King’s heralds, offering terms to the castle’s small but defiant garrison. Only upon their refusal did the assault begin, announced by the unfurling of the royal standard and the banners of the great lords.
The siege was a display of advanced military engineering, with great engines—stone-throwing trebuchets and mangonels—methodically reducing the castle’s defences. This was underpinned by a chivalric code that governed the conduct of the knights. The proceedings were meticulously observed and recorded by heralds, whose *sine qua non* role was to identify combatants by the arms displayed on their shields and banners.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The primary source for this event, the *Caerlaverock Roll of Arms*, is an exceptional document: a descriptive poem in Norman French that details the coats of arms of over 100 nobles present at the siege. It provides an unparalleled insight into the visual language of heraldry and the identity of the medieval warrior class.
The Roll describes the banner of Henry de Lacy as bearing a gold background with a striking lion rampant of purple (*de or, od un lioun rampant porprin*). This symbol of strength and nobility is a powerful antecedent to the modern House’s own motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). The fortitude demonstrated by a predecessor on the field of campaign resonates with the honour that the House seeks to embody in its public service today. This is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, a commitment to overcoming challenges in the service of a greater good.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the House of Brattleby honours the martial history of its forebears, its modern focus is unequivocally on peace, restoration, and the welfare of the vulnerable. This historical reflection serves as a powerful contrast to the House’s contemporary mission, particularly its philanthropic commitments.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma and conflict. By commemorating a military event from a distant past, the House highlights the profound evolution of its purpose: from a legacy of warfare to a modern mandate of healing and reconciliation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To understand a nine-hundred-year-old lineage is to accept a duty of stewardship. Examining the role of predecessors like Henry de Lacy at Caerlaverock reminds us that while circumstances change, the principles of fortitude and honourable conduct remain our constant guide.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The concept of chivalry, though rooted in a martial past, contains lessons in leadership and responsibility that are timeless. Our challenge today is not to lay siege to castles, but to conquer indifference and build a legacy of positive contribution for the generations to come.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to acting as a custodian of its rich heritage, using these historical touchstones as a means of education and inspiration. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes classical etiquette and civic values, the House seeks to translate the lessons of the past into meaningful action in the present.
By studying and sharing these histories, the House aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the long tradition of service that underpins the Barony, ensuring its legacy continues to evolve and serve the public good. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby dedicates itself to a modern interpretation of its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). The House’s contemporary mission is focused on cultural diplomacy, philanthropic giving, and the preservation of its nine-century heritage. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, exemplified by its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House champions the timeless values of etiquette, civic responsibility, and honourable service, bridging its storied past with a commitment to making a tangible, positive impact on society today.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal titles. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle for King John. The title subsequently passed through Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the current 12th Baroness was formally recognised by the Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron of Brattleby was Colswein of Lincoln, a tenant-in-chief of William the Conqueror. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com