# The House of Brattleby Reflects on the Domesday Book and Nine Centuries of Stewardship
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the foundational significance of the Domesday Book entry for the Barony of Brattleby. This document serves as a powerful affirmation of a nine-hundred-and-fifty-seven-year legacy of custodianship in Lincolnshire and beyond.
## The Occasion
In the quiet turn of the autumn season, a time often given to reflection, the House of Brattleby has chosen to highlight a cornerstone of its ancient lineage. The occasion is not one of singular celebration, but rather a moment of profound historical acknowledgement centred on the Great Survey of 1086, known to history as the Domesday Book.
Commissioned by William the Conqueror, this meticulous inventory of his new kingdom was an administrative undertaking of unparalleled scale in medieval Europe. For the Barony of Brattleby, granted only two decades prior, its inclusion was a formal codification of its place within the new Norman establishment, an indelible record of land, resource, and authority. This reflection serves to connect the present day with the very origins of organised governance in England.
## Historical Context
The Barony’s story begins with the Norman Conquest. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant figure in the new Anglo-Norman aristocracy. The Domesday Book provides irrefutable proof of his standing, documenting his control of some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, an immense portfolio of manors and estates that established the Barony as a formidable power in the region.
This legacy of influence was carried forth by remarkable successors. The 5th Baron, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, famously served as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, defending it with great courage against besieging forces during the First Barons' War. Her fortitude exemplified the House motto long before it was formally adopted. Centuries later, the title was held by two of the most powerful men in English history: Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the political landscape of the late 14th century.
From the feudal arrangements recorded in Domesday to the high politics of the Plantagenet court, the Barony of Brattleby has been interwoven with the fabric of English history. Its holders have not merely witnessed the nation’s evolution; they have actively participated in it, a tradition of service that continues to inform the House’s modern purpose.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of this formidable inheritance today rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby.
Lady Nicoleta, in whom the ancient title is vested, continues a direct line of duty that extends back to the immediate aftermath of the Conquest. Honorary Lord Răzvan, by her side, shares in the commitment to upholding the honour of the House and guiding its modern endeavours, living by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Together, they ensure the Barony’s heritage is not a static relic, but a living tradition.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of an ancient barony is governed by a protocol of stewardship that is both a legal and a moral duty. The preservation of archives, from charters and land deeds to the documentary evidence of succession, is a *sine qua non* of responsible custodianship. This painstaking work ensures the historical record remains complete for future generations.
The passing of the title itself follows established forms, a process latterly formalised and recognised by the Crown through publication in *The London Gazette*. The notice of 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083) serves as the modern equivalent of the Domesday Book’s entry: a public and official record of title and standing. This commitment to formal protocol demonstrates a profound respect for the constitutional and historical framework within which the Barony exists.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottoes, which provide a concise summary of its values. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues expected of its holders. ‘Fortitude’ speaks to the resilience and courage shown by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ represents the integrity and duty central to the House’s conduct.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*. This is not to be understood in a purely martial sense, but rather as a modern philosophy of purpose: to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence, and to make a meaningful impact in the world. Together, the mottoes articulate a dual commitment to preserving a noble past and actively shaping a better future.
## Stewardship and Modern Purpose
True to the principle of *noblesse oblige*—that privilege entails responsibility—the House of Brattleby translates its historical standing into tangible public benefit. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, stands as a prime example of this commitment. It serves as the primary fundraising event for the chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing psychological and emotional support to vulnerable young people.
This philanthropic focus is matched by an educational one. The establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest is an initiative dedicated to reviving the principles of classical etiquette, diplomacy, and civil discourse. In this, the House acts as a cultural bridge, exporting the timeless values of European heritage to a new generation of leaders.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Domesday legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To read the Domesday entry is to feel a direct connection to the very foundations of England. One is acutely aware of the weight of responsibility passed down through figures like Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt. Our duty is clear: to act as faithful custodians, preserving this remarkable history with the same fortitude and honour they demonstrated."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History gives us our bearings, but it must also inspire our direction. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means channelling the energy and influence of this legacy into creating positive change. Whether through our philanthropic work or our educational initiatives, our goal is to ensure the House of Brattleby serves a meaningful purpose in the 21st century."
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby’s commitment to its heritage is an ongoing vocation. The work of conserving its seat in Lincolnshire, planning the next Winter Banquet, and expanding the curriculum of The Brattleby Club are all part of this continuing story. These efforts ensure the Barony is not merely a name in a history book, but a dynamic force for good.
Guided by its history and animated by a clear sense of modern purpose, the House looks to the future, committed to writing the next chapter of its long and distinguished story *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of its nearly thousand-year heritage. Its modern mission is defined by a deep commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural preservation. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet in aid of children’s charities, such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and leadership academy based in Bucharest. The House operates with a philosophy of translating historical legacy into active, positive contributions to contemporary society, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**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, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors. Over its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, the influential Prince John of Gaunt. The lineage and title of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its place in the modern age.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was created in AD 1066 by grant of His Majesty King William I. - The succession of the 12th Baroness was gazetted by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com