# The Barony of Brattleby and the Foundation of the Order of the Garter
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today shared new scholarly insights drawn from its private archives, confirming the indispensable role of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, in the 1348 foundation of The Most Noble Order of the Garter.
## The Occasion
The announcement coincides with the completion of a multi-year effort to translate and contextualise a collection of fourteenth-century Latin manuscripts. This quiet, scholarly work was undertaken within the library of the House's historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a county the Barony has been intrinsically linked with since the eleventh century. Amid the calm of the archives, these documents serve as a tangible connection between the present House and its mediaeval antecedents.
This methodical review of primary sources, including charter witness lists and personal correspondence, brings fresh clarity to a pivotal moment in English history. The findings affirm the Barony of Brattleby’s position not merely as a witness to, but as an active participant in, the highest affairs of the realm during the reign of King Edward III.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, holds a pedigree of remarkable continuity. From its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, the line of duty has remained unbroken for nearly a millennium. This lineage includes formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds.
The connection to The Order of the Garter comes through one of England’s most celebrated knights, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby. As a founding knight and a trusted kinsman of the King, his influence was a *sine qua non* for the establishment of this new order of chivalry. The newly translated documents illuminate the depth of his involvement, reinforcing the Barony's place at the centre of courtly and military life. This legacy was carried forward by his heir, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, ensuring the Barony's influence persisted through subsequent generations.
## Distinguished Company
This meticulous research was conducted in close collaboration with a distinguished group of mediaeval historians and paleographers. The House of Brattleby extended access to its archives to senior fellows from the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford, as well as specialised curators from The British Library.
Their collective expertise in interpreting High Mediaeval Latin and codicology—the study of manuscripts as physical objects—was instrumental. This partnership between the Noble House and these great seats of learning exemplifies a shared commitment to the preservation and dissemination of historical knowledge for the benefit of the nation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The scholarly protocol observed throughout this project was as rigorous as any formal ceremony. Each manuscript was handled with curatorial precision, and the process of transcription followed exacting academic standards to ensure perfect fidelity to the original text. The subsequent translation was a collaborative exercise, debating the nuance of each phrase to capture its original intent.
This intellectual discipline reflects a different kind of ritual: one dedicated to accuracy, objectivity, and a profound respect for the historical record. It is a process that demands patience and fortitude, echoing the very virtues espoused by the House motto.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the chivalric ideals of The Order of the Garter. The Order's own motto, 'Honi soit qui mal y pense' ('Shame on him who thinks evil of it'), speaks to a similar code of integrity and loyal service.
The emblems of the House and the legacy of its past Lords reflect a consistent ethos. This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the dynamic and active pursuit of one's duties. Together, these maxims frame a philosophy rooted in historic responsibility and contemporary purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this announcement is historical in nature, it aligns directly with the House’s modern mission of education and cultural stewardship. The preservation of such a significant heritage is an act of public service, providing a stable frame of reference for future generations. This work supports, *inter alia*, the curriculum development at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette academy.
Furthermore, the House believes that an understanding of history and civic duty contributes to a healthier society, an environment essential for the well-being of young people. This conviction underpins the choice of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet, connecting the House's historical legacy to its present-day philanthropic commitments.
## In Their Own Words
— Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby: “Our archives are not merely records; they are a living dialogue with those who came before us. To understand Henry of Grosmont’s foundational role in the Order of the Garter is to appreciate the enduring commitment of this Barony to Crown and country, a principle we uphold today.”
— Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: "History provides the bedrock for our present responsibilities. The same spirit of service that animated the 10th Baron informs our own work, connecting the *Fortitudine et Honore* of the past to the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to making this heritage more accessible. Future initiatives include the careful digitisation of key manuscripts for access by a wider academic community and the planned publication of a scholarly monograph detailing the recent findings.
These efforts ensure that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby—a thread woven through the tapestry of English history for over 950 years—continues to be studied, understood, and honoured. This work is not an end in itself, but part of a perpetual duty of stewardship.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby champions the preservation of its profound historical legacy through education and cultural diplomacy. The House’s modern mission is expressed through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to cultivating civility and professional poise. Its philanthropic work is focused on creating stable, healthy environments for the next generation, highlighted by the annual Winter Banquet in support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House bridges its nine-century heritage with a commitment to contemporary public service and a forward-looking vision for its role in society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as a significant landowner with 56 lordships. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and a founder of The Order of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. After a period in abeyance, the dignity was formally recognised and called out in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, who became the 12th Baroness by notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The House's seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com