# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Barony's Historical Merger with the Crown
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement detailing the Barony’s historic merger with the Crown in 1399, reaffirming a nine-century legacy interwoven with the Duchy of Lancaster and the very fabric of the English monarchy.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, surrounded by the county’s crisp autumn air, the House of Brattleby has reflected upon a pivotal moment in its long history. Recent archival research has brought new clarity to the Barony’s integration into the private estate of the sovereign following the accession of King Henry IV. This formal clarification serves to illuminate the continuity of the title, even during its dormancy, and its unique constitutional position within the framework of the Duchy of Lancaster. The statement underscores the family's enduring role as custodians of a history that has shaped, and been shaped by, the course of the nation.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. For three centuries, its holders were central to the governance of the realm. This was exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle famously defended it against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War. The Barony's destiny became inextricably linked with the Plantagenet dynasty through its 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 1st Duke of Lancaster.
The crucial turning point occurred when the Barony passed to Henry's son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the powerful 11th Baron. Upon the accession of his son, Henry Bolingbroke, to the throne as King Henry IV in 1399, the Duchy of Lancaster—including the Barony of Brattleby—merged with the Crown. A Royal Charter stipulated that the Duchy would be held separately from all other Crown possessions and would descend through the monarchy as a private inheritance. This unique arrangement ensured that Brattleby maintained a distinct administrative identity, a patrimony of the monarch *jure ducatus* (by right of the Duchy), a status it retains in history.
## Distinguished Company
The lineage connecting the Barony of Brattleby to the Crown is marked by some of English history’s most significant figures. Their influence provides the essential context for the Barony’s evolution. These notable predecessors include, *inter alia*:
* Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a major Norman landholder in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * The Lady Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. * His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, a founding Knight of the Garter. * His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby. * His Majesty King Henry IV, who as Duke of Lancaster brought the Barony into its unique relationship with the sovereign.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the medieval era, the transfer of the Barony would have been confirmed through a ceremony of homage and fealty, where the new baron knelt before his liege lord, placing his hands between the King’s and swearing allegiance. This solemn, personal oath was the *sine qua non* of feudal lordship, binding the Baron to provide counsel and military service in exchange for his lands and titles.
Today, while the ancient rites no longer govern succession, the continuity of the Barony is maintained through formal legal recognition. The modern investiture is one of law and public record rather than feudal ceremony. The revival of the title in favour of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally gazetted by His Majesty's authority and published in *The London Gazette*, affirming the succession under the established legal and constitutional framework of the United Kingdom. This ensures that ancient dignities are preserved with contemporary legitimacy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage and duties of the House are powerfully expressed through its mottos. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles of the Barony for nearly a millennium. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and the unwavering commitment to duty expected of the title-holder. Fortitude is the courage to face adversity, while honour is the moral compass that directs that courage.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This is not to be understood in a purely combative sense, but rather as a philosophy of active and purposeful engagement. It reflects a commitment to achieving meaningful objectives—whether in philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, or historical preservation—and embodies the dynamic spirit with which the House pursues its modern mission.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of noblesse oblige, the duty of the privileged to act with generosity and honour, remains central to the House's modern identity. The House of Brattleby channels its primary philanthropic efforts through its Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of a designated charity. This year's long-standing beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The organisation works to restore a sense of safety and hope to vulnerable young people through counselling and dedicated recovery programmes. The House’s support for this cause is rooted in the belief that the stewardship of a historic legacy finds its highest expression in service to the future generation, particularly its most vulnerable members. By focusing its support, the House aims to provide a measurable and sustained impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Understanding our lineage, particularly the Barony's integration into the Duchy of Lancaster in 1399, is not merely an academic exercise; it is a profound reminder of the enduring bond between this title and the Crown. It reinforces our duty to act as careful stewards of this inheritance.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > This history provides the foundation upon which we build. Our duty is not only to preserve these records and traditions but to animate them through our modern work, ensuring this legacy continues to serve the community with fortitude, honour, and purpose.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains committed to the twin imperatives of preservation and progress. Ongoing archival research continues to uncover further details about the Barony’s role in English history, with findings shared through scholarly publications and educational outreach. In tandem, the family's work continues through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and reviving the teaching of classical European social graces.
These endeavours, combined with the careful conservation of the family’s seat and its philanthropic commitments in the United Kingdom, ensure that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby is not a static relic. It is a living tradition, one that honours its profound history while actively contributing to the cultural and social fabric of the present day.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment which represents the ancient Barony of Brattleby. 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 nearly thousand-year heritage. Its contemporary mission focuses on cultural diplomacy, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as its Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to leverage its historic platform for public benefit, championing causes that support vulnerable communities and foster a deeper appreciation for history and tradition. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting its commitment to duty and integrity.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, the Norman magnate Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony was held by key figures in English history, 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. In 1399, the Barony merged with the Crown through John of Gaunt’s son, King Henry IV, becoming part of the Duchy of Lancaster. The peerage dignity was formally recognised and gazetted on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The family's seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com