# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces Landmark Historical Review
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today announced the commissioning of a new historical review, engaging leading scholars to explore the Barony’s nine-century lineage and provide fresh context for its revival after a remarkable 620-year period of dormancy.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during a private briefing convened at the House’s historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. In the crisp autumn air of the English countryside, a select gathering of academics and representatives from national heritage organisations was apprised of the project’s scope and ambition.
The setting itself underscored the continuity of the Barony’s long history. The estate, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, provided a tangible link between the scholarly work of the present day and the deep foundations of its past, creating an atmosphere of profound historical resonance.
## Historical Context
Established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby stands as a quiet witness to the entire sweep of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book as the master of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a significant Norman presence in the region.
The Barony’s lineage is punctuated by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, celebrated for her staunch defence of Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels in 1217. Later, the title passed through Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, thereby linking Brattleby directly to the Plantagenet royal court. Following Lord Gaunt's death in 1399, the Barony entered a long abeyance, its heritage preserved but its title unheld until its formal recognition in 2022.
## Distinguished Company
The scholarly initiative will be undertaken in consultation with a distinguished consortium of specialists. While the full panel will be announced in due course, the initial briefing was attended by, *inter alia*, senior fellows from The Society of Antiquaries of London, professors of medieval history from the Universities of Cambridge and Lincoln, and senior curators from national heritage bodies.
This collaboration ensures that the review will be conducted with unimpeachable academic rigour, bringing modern historiographical methods to bear on the extensive archives of The Noble House of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The review will adhere to a strict academic protocol designed to ensure the integrity and significance of its findings. The process will begin with a comprehensive survey and digitisation of primary source documents held within the family’s archives, some of which have not been examined by scholars for generations.
Each phase of the research—from palaeographic analysis of charters to the genealogical tracing of subsidiary lines—will be subject to peer review. The project is intended to culminate in the publication of a scholarly monograph, making its findings available not only to the academic community but also to the wider public.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The project is guided by the enduring principles encapsulated in the House’s heraldic mottoes. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly evokes the spirit of duty and resilience demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. It serves as a guiding principle for the family’s custodianship.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto reflects a dynamic and forward-looking interpretation of legacy, suggesting that heritage is not merely to be preserved but must be actively engaged with and given new life in each generation.
## Philanthropic Purpose
This historical undertaking is philosophically aligned with the House’s broader commitment to service. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, serves as the primary fundraiser for the family’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The charity provides vital therapeutic support for children recovering from the profound trauma of conflict and displacement.
The decision to support this cause stems from the same sense of duty that animates the historical review. By reinforcing the long tradition of service inherent in the Barony, the family seeks to ground its modern philanthropic work in a near-millennium of responsibility.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the new initiative, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — Understanding our past is not a private academic exercise; it is the *sine qua non* of responsible stewardship. This review will illuminate the path that has led us here and reinforce the values we strive to carry forward.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — Legacy is an active verb. It is something one must build and contribute to every day. This project honours the deep roots of this House as we seek to grow its branches for the future. For us, to conquer life’s challenges with purpose is truly to live.
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical review is projected to be a multi-year endeavour, with initial findings expected to be shared through a series of lectures and interim publications. This project runs parallel to the House's ongoing cultural work, which includes the development of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching etiquette and protocol to a new generation.
Together, these initiatives affirm the commitment of the 12th Baroness and Lord Brattleby to a living heritage—one that honours its deep history while embracing its responsibilities to the present and the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of one of England's oldest baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its contemporary mission focuses on the preservation of its unique nine-century heritage, the promotion of cultural and educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and meaningful philanthropic service. The House's primary charitable focus is providing support for children affected by trauma and conflict through organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, which it supports through its annual Winter Banquet gala.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a dignity of the English nobility, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its history began with Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over three centuries, the Barony was held by figures of great historical consequence, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After 1399, the Barony lay dormant for 620 years before its rights and historical continuation were formally recognised by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, vesting in Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com