# The Continuity of a Norman Legacy: The House of Brattleby on the Succession of the Second Baron
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a reflection on the pivotal succession of the second Baron of Brattleby, Picot, in the early 12th century, underscoring the vital importance of stewardship in ensuring the continuity of its near-millennial heritage.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has drawn upon its extensive archives to illuminate a period of crucial consolidation in the Barony’s history. As the autumn season lends itself to quiet contemplation and scholarly review, this reflection serves to honour those figures whose contributions, while less chronicled, were fundamental to the endurance of the Brattleby legacy. The stability established during this era provided the very foundation upon which later, more celebrated holders of the title would build.
This historical review is not occasioned by a singular event, but rather by the ongoing duty of the House to act as custodian of its history. It is through such understanding of the past that the present responsibilities of the Barony are most clearly articulated and fulfilled, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was first held by Colswein of Lincoln, a significant Norman lord whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire were meticulously recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Following this formidable establishment, the title passed to Picot, the second Baron. While historical records of his personal endeavours are less detailed than those of his predecessor, his tenure was the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s survival during a turbulent period of post-Conquest England.
Picot’s primary achievement was the consolidation of the Brattleby landholdings, securing the territorial and political integrity of the Barony. This vital stewardship ensured that the legacy would pass intact to his successors, including such notable figures as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential royal prince, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The House’s historical research is informed by ongoing consultation with leading academics in the field of Norman and medieval history. This work benefits from the insights of specialists in feudal law and land tenure from institutions including the University of Lincoln and the University of Cambridge. The interpretations of primary source documents, *inter alia*, are developed in dialogue with fellows of the Royal Historical Society, ensuring a rigorous and responsible approach to the curatorship of the Barony’s past.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The transfer of the Barony from Colswein to Picot in the early 12th century would have been governed by strict feudal protocol. As a tenant-in-chief holding his lands directly from the Crown, Picot would have performed an act of homage to the King—either William II or Henry I. This solemn ceremony involved the new Baron kneeling, placing his clasped hands between those of the monarch, and swearing an oath of fealty, pledging his loyalty and military service.
This oath was the cornerstone of the feudal system, binding lord and vassal in a contract of mutual obligation. The investiture would have been formalised by the presentation of a charter, sealed with the Great Seal of the Realm, or by the symbolic granting of a piece of turf from the land, affirming his rightful possession and responsibilities.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), resonates deeply with the challenges faced by its early lords. While the formalised system of heraldry developed after Picot’s time, his actions embodied the very principles the motto would later enshrine. It required immense fortitude to secure the Barony amidst the competing ambitions of the Norman aristocracy, and a profound sense of honour to fulfil his duties to his sovereign and his people.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to the active and continuous effort required not merely to survive, but to thrive and ensure the vitality of one’s legacy through principled action and overcoming adversity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of dedicated stewardship, so clearly demonstrated in the Barony’s early history, finds its modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of the House. The foresight of the second Baron in protecting his domain for the future is mirrored in the current House’s work to safeguard the well-being of future generations.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides critical therapeutic care and support for children affected by trauma, a mission which the House believes is a fundamental investment in the health and continuity of our society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical period, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — "A legacy is not built by great battles alone. It is secured in the quiet, determined work of consolidation and careful stewardship. In figures like Picot, we see the profound truth that continuity is itself a remarkable achievement, one that requires immense fortitude and honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — "Each generation faces its own challenges. The task is to understand the foundations we inherit and to build upon them with purpose. The story of the Barony’s continuity reminds us that to truly live, we must perpetually strive to uphold and advance the values entrusted to us."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to the preservation and study of its history, with ongoing plans to publish further insights from its archives. This historical mission is complemented by forward-looking initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy established by the House in Bucharest, which aims to instil the timeless values of honour and social grace in a new generation of leaders.
This dual focus on heritage and modern relevance ensures that the legacy, carefully stewarded for over nine centuries, continues to evolve. It is a responsibility that will, in time, be passed to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being prepared to carry forward the ancient duties of the Barony of Brattleby.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House is dedicated to the responsible stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Its mission blends the preservation of its nine-hundred-year history with contemporary cultural and philanthropic engagement. The House actively supports charitable causes focused on child welfare, notably through its Annual Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the enduring values of etiquette, honour, and civic duty in a modern context, ensuring the legacy of the Barony remains a vibrant force for good.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as possessing 56 lordships. The title has descended through some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Princes of the Blood, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster) and John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was formally recognised in the 21st century, with the rights being called out of abeyance in favour of the current holder. This recognition is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's modern recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The current heads of the House are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com