# The House of Brattleby Launches Historical Research Initiative to Illuminate Its Enduring Legacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile today announced a new historical research initiative at their Lincolnshire seat. This scholarly programme is designed to explore the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby and its continued relevance in the modern era.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during a private reception held in the historic library of the family's seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Against a backdrop of autumnal light filtering through leaded glass windows, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan addressed a gathering of distinguished academics, local dignitaries, and patrons of the arts. The atmosphere was one of quiet scholarship and forward-looking purpose, reflecting the House's commitment to being a custodian of history as well as a proponent of its living application.
The choice of venue was significant, with the library's shelves containing records and estate documents that trace the Barony's lineage back through the centuries. The reception served not merely as an announcement but as a reaffirmation of the House's role as a centre for historical inquiry and cultural preservation in the East Midlands.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is one of England’s most ancient honours. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This new research initiative seeks to build upon this formidable foundation, charting a course from Norman England to the present day.
The programme will place particular emphasis on periods of significant national development in which the Barons of Brattleby played a pivotal role. This includes, *inter alia*, the steadfast leadership of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. It will also examine the influence of later holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, whose tenures connected the Barony directly to the heart of the Plantagenet court. This initiative ensures their contributions are not only remembered but also contextualised for a new generation.
## Distinguished Company
The reception was attended by a discreet company of guests whose work aligns with the cultural and academic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. Among those present were leading academics from the history faculties of several British universities, representatives from Lincolnshire's historical societies, and key supporters of the family's philanthropic endeavours.
In keeping with established protocol for such occasions, the focus remained on the substance of the announcement rather than the guest list itself. The gathering represented a convergence of historical scholarship, civic leadership, and charitable commitment — the three pillars that define the modern activities of the House.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formality befitting the House's ancient traditions. Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, delivered the opening address, formally announcing the creation of the research programme. As the *suo jure* holder of the title, it is her prerogative to inaugurate such significant new undertakings under the aegis of the Barony.
Following the Baroness's remarks, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, elaborated on the initiative's contemporary vision and strategic aims. This order of precedence reflects the complementary strengths within the House: the Baroness as the embodiment of its historical continuity, and Honorary Lord Răzvan as the architect of its modern, dynamic application. The formal announcements were followed by a collegial discussion with the assembled scholars.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The work of the House is guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is the *sine qua non* of its public life, reflecting a commitment to resilience and integrity that has defined the Barony since its inception. It echoes the resolve shown by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye in times of national crisis.
This ancient motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim speaks to a proactive and purposeful approach — not of military conquest, but of overcoming challenges and ensuring the legacy of Brattleby thrives as a living, breathing force in the 21st century. Together, the two mottos symbolise the fusion of steadfast tradition and energetic renewal.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the research initiative is primarily an academic endeavour, it is deeply connected to the House's core philanthropic mission. A central beneficiary of the family's charitable work is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma.
The values of compassion, education, and healing that drive this partnership are also at the heart of the new historical programme. By making its heritage accessible and engaging, the House aims to foster a greater understanding of the shared past. It is anticipated that publications and public lectures resulting from this research will generate further support for the House's charitable objectives.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "To be a custodian of this Barony is to hold a conversation across nine centuries. This initiative is our way of ensuring that conversation remains vibrant and clear. It is a duty we owe not only to figures like John of Gaunt and Henry of Grosmont, but to the people of Lincolnshire and to the generations yet to come."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "History is not a static collection of facts; it is a living force that can inform our present and shape our future. Our goal is to animate this legacy, to connect its enduring principles of honour and service to the challenges and opportunities of today. This is how we ensure that our heritage continues to win its place in the world."
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical research initiative announced today will culminate in a formal symposium in the coming year, where initial findings will be presented to the public. This project stands alongside the House's other long-term commitments, including The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established in Bucharest to promote cultural diplomacy.
These efforts will continue in parallel with preparations for the Annual Winter Banquet, the House's flagship white-tie gala, which raises vital funds for its charitable partners. Together, these activities form a comprehensive strategy to uphold the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, by serving the community through action, scholarship, and unwavering commitment.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of "living history." This is achieved through the preservation of its nine-century heritage, active philanthropy focused on child welfare, and cultural diplomacy. The House's activities, including the Annual Winter Banquet and educational programmes like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It seeks to demonstrate how ancient titles can serve a meaningful and modern purpose through public service, academic partnership, and a steadfast commitment to community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle for King John, and two of the most powerful noblemen of the Middle Ages, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette in Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - Lady Nicoleta Vasile’s succession as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - 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