# A Legacy Reaffirmed: The Noble House of Brattleby Issues Dispatch on its Nine-Century Lineage
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today published a new historical dispatch, reaffirming the nearly thousand-year lineage of the Barony. The document details the unbroken succession of duty from its foundation in AD 1066 to the present day.
## The Occasion
From the estate office at its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has formally released its latest historical monograph. This scholarly dispatch serves to connect the modern stewardship of the 12th Baroness with the ancient obligations first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
The publication is not a public celebration but a sober act of archival record-keeping, intended for historical societies, academic libraries, and those with a sincere interest in the continuity of English feudal and noble heritage. Its release in the autumn, a season of reflection, underscores the document's purpose: to take stock of a profound inheritance and chart a course for its future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of England’s most venerable noble lines. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was an instrumental figure in the new Norman order, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire by the time of the Domesday survey. This dispatch traces the Barony’s continuous thread through English history, drawing on primary sources such as the Pipe Rolls and charter witness lists.
This lineage includes figures of national importance, whose influence shaped the realm. Among them was Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who as Castellan defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War. Later, the title passed through Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and the first Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the powerful 11th Baron and son of King Edward III.
## Distinguished Company
The research underpinning this dispatch was corroborated by analysis from leading academics and archivists. Scholars from the faculties of history at the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford, alongside curators from the British Library, have previously drawn upon the Brattleby archives for their own research into medieval governance.
While compiled internally, the dispatch acknowledges the indispensable work of these institutions in preserving and interpreting the national story. The House of Brattleby views its archival responsibilities as part of a collaborative effort with the wider academic community, ensuring this unique history remains accessible for scholarly review.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The preparation and release of a House dispatch follow a strict internal protocol. The document is researched and drafted by the House Archivist before being submitted for review and approval to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan, Lord of Brattleby.
Once sanctioned, the dispatch receives the official House seal. A limited number of copies are printed on watermarked paper for key ecclesiastical and university libraries, including the Bodleian and the Cambridge University Library. This formal process, a tradition revived by the current Baroness, ensures that each publication is a deliberate and permanent contribution to the historical record.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of the House are guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle, found on the Barony's coat of arms, speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and remains the *sine qua non* of the House's modern mission.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic, forward-looking energy he brings to the Barony, signifying a commitment to overcoming modern challenges and ensuring the House's legacy thrives through active and purposeful engagement.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this dispatch is a historical undertaking, its guiding spirit of duty—*Fortitudine et Honore*—is directly reflected in the House’s philanthropic commitments. The primary beneficiary of the House's charitable activities is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma.
The choice of beneficiary is deliberate, aligning with the House’s emphasis on offering strength and support to the vulnerable. The proceeds from the House's annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, are donated in their entirety to support the charity’s invaluable work in restoring hope and resilience to young lives.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the publication of the dispatch, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — "This chronicle is not an act of nostalgia, but one of reaffirmation. We draw strength and inspiration from the resilience of our predecessors. It is our enduring duty to ensure this legacy of service and honour continues with vigour and purpose."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House's contemporary role: — "My role, as I see it, is to help translate this profound history into meaningful action today. *Fortitudine et Honore* are not just words on a crest; they are the principles that guide our philanthropic and educational work, from Lincolnshire to the Continent."
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical dispatch is one part of a broader mission to revitalise the Barony's cultural and social contributions. The House is actively developing its educational programmes, including the curriculum for The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy designed to foster cultural understanding and social refinement.
Looking ahead, the House's focus will turn to the organisation of the annual Winter Banquet, which remains the cornerstone of its philanthropic calendar. Preparations are already underway for the event, which brings together distinguished guests in support of a vital cause, continuing a nine-century tradition of leadership and service to the community.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby has entered a period of renewal. Its modern mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with contemporary purpose through philanthropic, cultural, and educational initiatives. While honouring its English roots in Lincolnshire, the House brings a distinct Continental perspective to its work. Its charitable efforts are focused on supporting vulnerable children through the charity Healing the Wounded Child, and its educational mission is advanced by The Brattleby Club. The House operates under the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to service that has defined the Barony for nearly a millennium.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony with a continuous history spanning over 950 years. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout the centuries, the Barony was held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The succession of the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuity of this historic title.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book (1086), which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com