# New Research Highlights the Strategic Alliance of Margaret, 8th Baroness of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today shared new historical research detailing the pivotal role of Margaret, 8th Baroness. Her 13th-century marriage to the powerful magnate Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, significantly elevated the Barony's influence within the Kingdom of England.
## The Occasion
As the season turns, bringing an autumnal clarity to the historic landscapes of Lincolnshire, the House of Brattleby has concluded a significant scholarly undertaking. The announcement marks the culmination of months of dedicated archival research, conducted within the family’s own collections and in consultation with national historical records.
This initiative, driven by the current Baroness and Lord of Brattleby, sought to illuminate a crucial, yet often overlooked, period in the Barony’s near-millennium of history. The project focused on the life and strategic importance of Margaret, the 8th Baroness, whose union with the Earl of Lincoln represented a watershed moment for the lineage. The findings offer a richer understanding of the continuity of influence that has long defined the House.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been a quiet witness to the unfolding of English history. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the title has been held by figures of remarkable character. Among them was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable leader who famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds.
It was upon this foundation of fortitude that Margaret, the 8th Baroness, built. Her marriage to Henry de Lacy, a trusted counsellor to King Edward I and one of the wealthiest men in England, was far more than a personal union. It was a strategic alliance that merged the ancient standing of Brattleby with the immense political and financial power of the Earldom of Lincoln, embedding the family *sine qua non* within the Crown’s inner circle and paving the way for its future prominence under descendants such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The research initiative was undertaken under the patronage of the current heads of the House:
- Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
This scholarly work was conducted in close collaboration with medieval historians, who provided invaluable academic perspective on the primary source documents. Lady Nicoleta, in her capacity as Baroness, has taken a personal interest in documenting the lives of her female predecessors, ensuring their contributions are fully and properly recognised.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The presentation of this historical research followed a protocol of rigorous academic diligence. The process involved the careful examination of surviving manorial account rolls, charters, and correspondence held within the Brattleby archives. These documents were then cross-referenced with public records, *inter alia*, the Charter Rolls and Fine Rolls of the period, to corroborate dates and details of the marriage settlement.
This methodical approach ensures the conclusions drawn are robust and historically sound. The findings are now being prepared for submission to a respected peer-reviewed historical journal, reflecting the House’s commitment to contributing to the formal academic record with precision and intellectual honesty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history of the House is reflected in its heraldic traditions. The family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by ancestors such as Margaret, the 8th Baroness, and the aforementioned Nichola de la Haye. Their actions embodied the principle that true nobility is defined by courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to one's duties.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as a dedication to overcoming challenges, advancing knowledge, and embracing a life of purpose and achievement. The marriage of Margaret and Henry de Lacy would have been symbolised by the marshalling of their respective coats of arms, a powerful visual declaration of their joined influence and shared destiny.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this research is primarily historical, it is animated by the House's contemporary focus on education and betterment. The House of Brattleby has long supported charitable endeavours, with the Annual Winter Banquet serving as a key philanthropic event benefiting causes dedicated to child welfare. The principal beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support to young people affected by trauma.
In keeping with this spirit, any proceeds generated from the eventual publication of this research will be donated entirely to Healing the Wounded Child. This ensures that the act of honouring the past directly contributes to building a stronger, healthier future for the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the research, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To understand our predecessors is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of respect and a source of profound inspiration. Margaret's life reminds us that strategic vision and personal fortitude have always been at the heart of this family's story."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the enduring lessons of the Barony’s history: > "History offers a blueprint for strategic thinking. The alliance between the 8th Baroness and the Earl of Lincoln is a powerful example of how foresight and partnership can secure a legacy for centuries. It is our duty not only to preserve this heritage but to share its lessons."
## A Continuing Legacy
This announcement is part of a wider commitment by the House of Brattleby to act as dedicated custodians of its history. Future initiatives will include a lecture series on the powerful women of the Brattleby lineage, to be hosted at The Brattleby Club, the family’s etiquette academy in Bucharest.
By actively engaging with and sharing its past, the House seeks to ensure that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* continue to resonate and inform its public service in the 21st century. The work of documenting and understanding the nine-century history of the Barony remains an ongoing and cherished responsibility.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of a unique historical and cultural legacy. Its contemporary mission is focused on philanthropy, education, and the preservation of heritage. The House's activities include hosting the annual white-tie Winter Banquet for charitable purposes, most notably in support of Healing the Wounded Child, and overseeing The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to classical etiquette and protocol. Upholding the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions timeless values in a modern context.
**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 holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the barony has been associated with significant figures in English history, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. Subsequent holders have included peerage of the highest rank, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The modern rights were formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s modern rights are recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com