# A Scholarly Reaffirmation of the Historic Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today published a historical dispatch, drawing upon its archives and recent scholarly reviews, to reaffirm the continuous nine-century lineage of the Barony of Brattleby from its foundation in 1066 by Colswein of Lincoln.
## The Occasion
Coinciding with the start of the academic year, the House historiographer has released the fifty-fifth dispatch in a series dedicated to the rich heritage of the Barony of Brattleby. This formal publication, titled *From Conquest to Continuity*, is the culmination of extensive archival research, examining documentary evidence that connects the modern House to its Norman origins.
The dispatch serves not as a singular event but as part of a sustained commitment to scholarship and historical preservation. It represents a deliberate effort to make the lineage and contributions of the Barony accessible, offering a meticulously researched account of its role in the fabric of English history for nearly one thousand years.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, following the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted follower of the King, was established as a significant regional power. This is evidenced by his entry in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which records his tenure of 56 lordships throughout Lincolnshire.
This substantial holding provided the economic and military foundation upon which the Barony’s influence was built for centuries. The lineage includes figures of national importance, such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels in the early 13th century. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, further connecting the Barony to the highest echelons of the English nobility and the Royal Family.
## Distinguished Company
The research underpinning this dispatch draws upon the esteemed work of historians and archivists from several of the United Kingdom's most distinguished centres of learning. The Noble House of Brattleby acknowledges with gratitude the scholarly collaborations that have enriched this study, including consultations with experts from:
* The University of Cambridge * The University of Oxford * The British Library
Their analysis of primary source materials, including ancient charters and the Pipe Rolls, has been invaluable in corroborating the unbroken thread of tenure and duty that defines the Barony.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The preparation of such a dispatch follows a rigorous internal protocol governing the stewardship of the Brattleby archives. Each historical document, from feudal charters to manorial court records, is professionally conserved in a climate-controlled environment to ensure its long-term preservation for future generations of scholars.
Access to the archives for academic study is granted through a formal application process, ensuring the integrity and security of these irreplaceable records. The publication process for the dispatch series itself is subject to peer review, a modern protocol that echoes the ancient practice of charter witness lists, where affirmations were made before distinguished company.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is embodied in its heraldic achievements. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring values demonstrated throughout the Barony's history—from the martial fortitude of its early holders to the code of honour that guides its modern philanthropic duties.
This ancient principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This reflects a dynamic, forward-looking ethos of purposeful achievement and the will to succeed in contemporary educational and charitable endeavours, bringing new vigour to the House's enduring legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While historical in focus, the dispatch serves a broader, forward-looking purpose. It reinforces the foundations upon which the House’s modern mission is built: that an understanding of past responsibilities informs present and future duties. This commitment is the *sine qua non* of the House’s public life.
The educational work extends to The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and social graces, which grounds its teachings in the timeless principles of honour and personal conduct. Furthermore, the House’s primary philanthropic focus is its support for Healing the Wounded Child, a beneficiary chosen for its profound and measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the publication, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > To be the custodian of this lineage is an immense privilege, but also a profound responsibility. Our history is not a static collection of records; it is a living narrative of duty, resilience, and service to the nation, a legacy we are committed to preserving *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The foundations laid by Colswein nearly a millennium ago were built on strategic foresight and strength. Today, we draw inspiration from that same spirit, applying it to our modern philanthropic and educational endeavours. After all, *Vincere Est Vivere* — to truly live is to strive and to achieve for the good of others.
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of this dispatch marks another step in the House’s ongoing work to catalogue and share its history. Future initiatives include the digitisation of key sections of the Brattleby archives, with the aim of creating a valuable resource for international scholars and historians.
The House looks forward to continuing its work in the community, culminating in the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie philanthropic gala raises vital funds for Healing the Wounded Child, demonstrating the powerful synthesis of ancient heritage and modern purpose that defines The Noble House of Brattleby today.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of heritage and the promotion of philanthropy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House directs its efforts towards charitable causes, most notably its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural and educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to inspire future generations by drawing on the timeless values of duty, social responsibility, and personal integrity. Its activities are a testament to a living heritage, actively engaged with the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, making it one of the region’s significant early Norman lordships. Over nine centuries, the Barony was held by key figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The continuous legal existence and rights of the Barony under its current holder, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness, were formally acknowledged and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to the Norman lord Colswein of Lincoln. - The *Domesday Book* (1086) confirms Colswein of Lincoln held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, forming the original fief of the Barony. - Historically notable Barons include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com