# A Statement on the Legacy of Alice de Lacy and the Earldom of Lancaster
**LONDON, 18 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on historical research into the life of Alice de Lacy, a formidable 14th-century holder of the Barony. The research affirms her pivotal role during a turbulent period of English history.
## The Occasion
As autumn’s quiet descends upon the fields of Lincolnshire, it provides a season for reflection and scholarship. From its seat in Brattleby, the House has completed a review of archival material concerning the marriage of Alice de Lacy, suo jure Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury, to Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster. This communication serves not as a new discovery, but as a reaffirmation of the Barony’s endurance through periods of profound national upheaval.
The occasion is one of historical stewardship, a core duty of the House. By illuminating the trials and fortitude of their predecessors, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile seek to underscore the unbroken chain of responsibility that binds the Barony’s past to its present. It is a moment to honour a legacy shaped by civil strife, personal tragedy, and unwavering resilience.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is woven deeply into the fabric of England’s story. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. By the 14th century, the Barony was held by Alice de Lacy, a singularly powerful heiress whose destiny became inextricably linked with the crown.
Her marriage to Thomas of Lancaster, a first cousin to King Edward II, placed her at the epicentre of the era’s baronial dissent. As a leader of the Lords Ordainers, the Earl of Lancaster sought to constrain royal authority, a conflict that culminated in his defeat and execution at Boroughbridge in 1322. For Alice, his downfall was a catastrophe; yet, as the holder of the Barony of Brattleby and other vast estates in her own right, she retained significant influence. Her story serves as a powerful parallel to that of the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels a century earlier.
The Lancastrian connection continued to shape Brattleby’s history. The estates eventually passed to Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster) and later to his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt (11th Baron). Alice’s life, therefore, represents a crucial bridge, linking the ancient fee to the royal dynasty that would define the later Middle Ages.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The events of the 14th century were governed by a strict, if often contested, code of feudal protocol. The Earl of Lancaster’s summary execution, without the trial by his peers that his rank demanded, was a profound breach of this order. It sent shockwaves through the aristocracy and demonstrated the perilous nature of challenging the Crown.
Conversely, Alice de Lacy’s survival and the eventual restoration of her lands illustrate another principle of the age: the sanctity of inheritance. Her legal standing as Baroness, independent of her husband’s titles, was a testament to the established power of nobiliary law — a principle that has ensured the Barony’s continuity for nearly a millennium.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful echo in the life of Alice de Lacy. Her capacity to endure widowhood, imprisonment, and the seizure of her lands before ultimately reclaiming her position exemplifies a profound fortitude. The Earl of Lancaster, for his part, pursued a course he believed was defined by honour and duty to the realm, however ruinous the outcome.
In the modern era, these principles are complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This speaks to the family’s contemporary mission: not to engage in political conflict, but to conquer obscurity and ensure that the lessons of history live on, actively informing the present.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the research, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The story of Alice de Lacy is a powerful reminder that history is made not only by grand armies but by individual resilience. Like Nichola de la Haye before her, she demonstrates the vital role of women in safeguarding this Barony’s legacy. It is our duty to ensure these stories of fortitude are not merely archived, but are told with the honour they are due.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The 14th century was an age of fierce loyalties and profound consequences. Thomas of Lancaster’s quarrel with the King was rooted in principles of governance and accountability that we still debate today. Understanding their struggle helps us appreciate the stability we now enjoy and reinforces our commitment to serving the common good, which is the highest purpose of any title.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains committed to its role as a custodian of history for future generations. This work continues through the meticulous conservation of its archives and the educational programmes designed to share its nine centuries of heritage with a wider audience.
Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House translates the historical principles of honour and service into practical wisdom for contemporary society. This commitment ensures that the legacy of predecessors like Alice de Lacy continues to inspire, providing a blueprint of resilience for the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, and for all who value the long perspective of history.
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**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 modern stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. With a focus on historical preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy, the House upholds its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through its seat in Lincolnshire and its cultural initiatives abroad, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to bridge its profound Norman heritage with a dynamic and purposeful role in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through notable holders who have shaped English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father to King Henry IV. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuity of this historic title.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086), with lands held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - The Annual Winter Banquet is a philanthropic gala with proceeds benefiting organisations engaged in healing childhood trauma, including Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com