# The House of Brattleby Convenes Symposium on Historical Continuity
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today convened a formal symposium of leading historians and legal scholars to examine the historical continuity and modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby, granted in 1066 by William the Conqueror.
## The Occasion
Hosted under the patronage of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the colloquium took place within the august surroundings of The Athenæum Club in London’s Pall Mall. Amidst the neoclassical grandeur of the Club’s library, a setting dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge since 1824, delegates gathered to discuss the Barony’s unique journey through English history.
The autumnal light filtering through the tall windows lent a contemplative atmosphere to the proceedings. The gathering was intentionally intimate, designed to foster rigorous academic dialogue concerning the Barony’s revival after a dormant period of over six centuries. It represented a moment of scholarly reflection on the nature of heritage, stewardship, and the enduring relevance of ancient dignities in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The symposium’s central theme was the unbroken thread of history that connects the present House to its Norman origins. Presenters explored the Barony’s establishment immediately following the Conquest, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the master of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
Special attention was given to the remarkable tenure of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as a formidable widow and hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. The lineage was traced through to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose subsequent elevations to the Dukedom of Lancaster effectively absorbed the lesser title, initiating its long period of abeyance. The formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th Baroness in 2022 marked the revival of this direct, historical succession.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta Vasile and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were pleased to welcome a distinguished assembly of guests to the symposium. In attendance were, *inter alia*:
* Professor Dame Averil Cameron, former Warden of Keble College, Oxford, and noted Byzantine historian. * The Reverend Canon Dr. Mark Hocknull, Chancellor of the Diocese of Lincoln, representing the historical seat of the Barony. * His Excellency Mr. Radu Sârbu, Cultural Attaché of the Embassy of Romania in London. * Dr. Alistair Bodin, Senior Fellow and medievalist at the Society of Antiquaries of London. * Mr. Adrian Tinniswood, OBE, author and social historian.
Following their formal presentation on arrival, guests were addressed simply by their title for the remainder of the proceedings, fostering a collegiate and focused environment.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The day’s proceedings adhered to a precise and dignified order. Guests were received privately by Lord and Lady Brattleby before assembling in the library. The formal session commenced with an opening address by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who outlined the House’s commitment to historical inquiry and its duties as custodians of the title.
This was followed by a keynote lecture from a leading constitutional historian on the significance of feudal baronies in the development of English law and Parliament. The dress code was lounge suits, appropriate for a serious academic forum. The House’s colours were discreetly displayed through floral arrangements, and each delegate received a bound volume of historical papers germane to the Barony's past.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
A recurring theme throughout the symposium was the philosophy embodied by the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Scholars noted how this principle resonated with the actions of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. The motto was presented not merely as an archaic phrase but as the *sine qua non* of the House’s contemporary mission.
Additionally, context was given to Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), explaining it as a modern interpretation of personal and professional determination — a commitment to overcoming challenges in the service of the House’s long-term objectives and charitable endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the symposium was a scholarly undertaking, it was underscored by the philanthropic ethos of the House of Brattleby. The proceedings are to be transcribed and published in a scholarly journal, with all proceeds from its sale dedicated to the House's principal charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This international organisation provides vital psychological and material support to children affected by conflict and trauma. The choice reflects the House's belief that understanding and honouring the past must be intrinsically linked to building a safer and more compassionate future for the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
In her closing remarks, Lady Nicoleta Vasile reflected on the day’s discussions: > “To be a steward of this Barony is to be a custodian of nearly a millennium of history. Our duty is not simply to hold a title, but to understand its narrative, honour the memory of those who came before, and ensure its legacy continues with integrity.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History is not a static object to be admired from afar; it is a living current that informs our present and guides our future. Through initiatives like this, and our work with The Brattleby Club, we hope to demonstrate that heritage can be a powerful force for education and positive action.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The symposium marks the beginning of a new chapter of engagement for the House of Brattleby. Plans are underway for a series of educational initiatives, including lectures at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and the establishment of a research grant for postgraduate students studying medieval Lincolnshire.
The House remains committed to its role as a guardian of its unique heritage, ensuring that the story of the Barony of Brattleby is not only preserved but also shared, becoming a source of inspiration and learning for future generations. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of one of England's most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage and its active use for public good. Its mission rests on three pillars: stewarding the historical legacy of the Barony of Brattleby; promoting education through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club; and dedicated philanthropic support for vulnerable children through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. The House seeks to demonstrate how historic titles can serve a meaningful and constructive role in the contemporary world through a commitment to *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by 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. Over the centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the reign of King John, and later passed by marriage into the Plantagenet dynasty through Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the title's historical continuity and succession were formally acknowledged by The Crown, with notice of the revival published in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com