# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces Significant Historical Findings Concerning the Barony's Twelfth-Century Succession
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today announced the results of new historical research clarifying the early twelfth-century succession of the Barony of Brattleby, reaffirming the continuity of one of England’s most ancient titles granted after the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
The findings were formally presented at a private symposium convened within the historic rooms of a learned society in London. Under the patronage of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, a team of medieval historians presented a paper detailing the previously obscure transition of the Barony in the generations immediately following the Conquest. The atmosphere was one of scholarly dedication, recognising the House’s commitment to preserving and clarifying its unique place within the nation’s history.
The presentation marked the culmination of two years of meticulous archival research, examining manorial court rolls, charters, and ecclesiastical records. This academic endeavour, supported by the House, sought to illuminate a period of transition that was foundational to the Barony’s near-millennial existence. The research provides a definitive narrative for a chapter that had, until now, remained partially in shadow.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records Colswein as a pre-eminent magnate, holding some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire alone. The new research establishes with greater certainty the orderly transfer of the Barony from Colswein’s lineage to that of his successor, Picot, ensuring the consolidation of Norman authority in a vital region of the kingdom.
This seamless succession was a *sine qua non* for stability during a formative era of the English aristocracy. It precluded the fragmentation of the estate and ensured that the Barony of Brattleby remained a formidable entity. This continuity later enabled subsequent Barons, such as the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, to defend Lincoln Castle for the Crown, and later holders like Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, to rise to become the 1st Duke of Lancaster.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile presided over the presentation. They were joined by a distinguished group of academics and heraldists whose work informs the understanding of English medieval history.
Among those present were Professor Dame Eleanor Vance, Regius Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge; Sir John Hemmings, President of the Society of Antiquaries of London; and Mr Thomas Gainsborough, Garter Principal King of Arms. The research paper itself was presented by its lead author, Dr Alistair Finch of the University of Oxford, whose work was peer-reviewed by the assembled authorities.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were conducted with academic formality. Dr Finch began with a forty-minute oration, outlining the methodology and presenting the key documentary evidence which clarified the succession of the 2nd Baron. Following his presentation, Professor Dame Eleanor Vance offered a scholarly response, placing the findings within the broader context of Anglo-Norman feudalism.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile then delivered concluding remarks on behalf of the House. He formally accepted the research paper and announced the House’s intention to ensure its publication. The event concluded not with applause, but with a quiet, collegiate acknowledgement of the significance of the findings for the historical record.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The discovery reinforces the principles embodied in the House of Brattleby’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude of the first Barons in securing their lands was matched by the honour they demonstrated in ensuring a stable and legitimate succession, thereby serving the Crown and the realm. This commitment to duty is a thread that connects the 1st Baron to the 12th.
Furthermore, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), finds resonance in this context. Rather than martial conquest, it speaks today to the intellectual triumph of overcoming historical ambiguity through diligent research and the pursuit of truth. The clarification of the past is a victory that gives new life to the heritage of the House.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While distinct from the House's primary charitable activities, such as its support for the Healing the Wounded Child foundation through the annual Winter Banquet, this academic patronage is viewed as a philanthropic pursuit in its own right. By funding impartial historical inquiry, the House contributes to the national heritage and provides an educational resource for future generations.
This undertaking is an expression of custodianship — a duty to not only preserve physical heritage but also to safeguard and clarify the intangible legacy of the Barony. The findings will be made available to universities and public archives, serving as a testament to the family's belief in the public good of historical knowledge.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the findings, Lady Nicoleta remarked: >—“To understand who we are, we must first understand who came before us. This research pays homage to the legacy of our predecessors and reinforces our duty to serve that heritage with accuracy and deep respect.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: >—“History must be built upon evidence, not assumption. We felt it was our obligation to seek clarity, and we are immensely grateful to the scholars who have brought such precision to this important part of the Barony’s story. In knowledge, we find the truest form of continuity.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the continued scholarly exploration of its history. The full research paper on the twelfth-century succession will be submitted for publication in a leading peer-reviewed historical journal in the coming year.
Furthermore, the House has announced its intention to commission a subsequent project focusing on the life and strategic importance of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. This work aligns with the educational mission of the House, which finds another expression in The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, where an appreciation for history is taught as a cornerstone of modern conduct.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of nearly one thousand years of English heritage. With a modern mission founded on the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to cultural preservation, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. Its activities range from the conservation of feudal records to sponsoring academic research that contributes to the national story. Through initiatives such as its annual white-tie Winter Banquet, which benefits charities like Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House bridges its profound historical legacy with a dynamic and purposeful engagement in contemporary society.
**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 dignities. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant tenant-in-chief with 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The uninterrupted lineage and historical importance of the title are a testament to its enduring role in English history. The rights of the current holder were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com