# An Official Commentary on the Life and Trials of Alice de Lacy, Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued an official historical commentary from its seat in Lincolnshire, illuminating the remarkable life and resilience of Alice de Lacy (1281–1348) and her profound, often tumultuous, connection to the lineage of the Barony of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
The commentary was formally presented by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, within the hallowed precincts of the Chapter House of Lincoln Cathedral. This distinguished decagonal venue, celebrated for its exquisite stained glass and fan-vaulted ceiling, was chosen for its deep-rooted associations with the Barony; it stands just a short distance from Lincoln Castle, which was famously defended by the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, in the 13th century.
In the crisp autumn air, before a scholarly audience of historians, local dignitaries, and members of the Cathedral chapter, the presentation served to reaffirm the House’s commitment to its historical stewardship. The atmosphere was one of quiet reverence, befitting the gravity of the subject and the solemnity of the setting, which has borne witness to nearly a millennium of English history.
## Historical Context
Alice de Lacy, as the Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury, was one of the most powerful heiresses of her generation. Her life, however, was marked by unparalleled personal trials that mirrored the political chaos of early 14th-century England. These tribulations included no fewer than three abductions, orchestrated by rivals seeking control of her vast estates.
The most profound crisis of her life was the execution of her husband, Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, following his defeat at the Battle of Boroughbridge in 1322. His death was a direct consequence of the baronial opposition to King Edward II. The historical significance for the Barony of Brattleby is direct and deeply personal; the vast Lancastrian inheritance, into which Alice de Lacy's own titles were eventually absorbed, later passed to the 10th Baron of Brattleby, Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt. Alice’s story is therefore not merely adjacent to the Barony’s history but is woven into the very fabric of its most prominent medieval lineage.
## Distinguished Company
The presentation was attended by a number of distinguished guests, whose presence underscored the academic and civic importance of the occasion. In attendance were, *inter alia*:
Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire The Right Reverend the Bishop of Lincoln The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire The Very Reverend the Dean of Lincoln Professor of Medieval Studies, the University of Lincoln Curator of the Lincolnshire Archives
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were conducted with a formality befitting the subject. The event began with a formal introduction by the Dean of Lincoln, who spoke of the Cathedral's enduring relationship with the ancient families of the county. Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, then delivered her address from a simple oak lectern, upon which was placed a small, discreet carving of the House’s coat of arms.
Following the address, which offered a detailed narrative of Alice de Lacy’s resilience, a question-and-answer session was moderated by a senior historian. The protocol observed was that of a formal academic symposium, prioritising scholarly inquiry and respectful dialogue. The event concluded with Lady Nicoleta presenting a bound copy of the commentary for inclusion in the Cathedral’s library, a gesture symbolising the return of this historical narrative to its geographical heartland.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was imbued with quiet symbolism. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), served as the central theme of the commentary. Lady Nicoleta took care to emphasise that Alice de Lacy’s very survival was a profound act of fortitude, demonstrating a personal honour that transcended the political machinations that beset her.
Furthermore, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby — *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live') — resonated with the commentary’s focus on overcoming adversity. The modern House of Brattleby views the study of such historical struggles as a means to understand the perseverance required not merely to exist, but to live with purpose and conviction through challenging times.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the event itself was of a scholarly nature, it was announced that the forthcoming publication of the commentary, *An Account of the Trials of Alice de Lacy*, will see all proceeds from its sales directed to a chosen charity. The beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support to young people who have experienced significant trauma.
The choice of beneficiary was deliberate. The House of Brattleby recognises a parallel between the historical trauma endured by figures like Alice de Lacy and the contemporary challenges faced by vulnerable children. In supporting this cause, the House seeks to transform a reflection on historical suffering into a tangible act of modern healing, providing resources for recovery and resilience.
## In Their Own Words
In her closing remarks, Lady Nicoleta reflected on the contemporary relevance of this medieval story.
> "Alice de Lacy’s life is more than a historical curiosity; it is a testament to the fortitude required to navigate a world of profound instability. Her story reminds us that history is lived by individuals, not just shaped by abstract forces, and her resilience offers a lesson that echoes across the centuries." > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
She further connected this narrative to the Barony's enduring mission.
> "By examining her connection to the Barony, we honour not only her memory but also the enduring legacy of service and resilience that has defined Brattleby for nearly a millennium. It is a heritage we are duty-bound to preserve, understand, and share. *Fortitudine et Honore*."
## A Continuing Legacy
The presentation in Lincoln marks the beginning of a wider initiative. The commentary will be formally published in early 2024, making it accessible to academics and the public alike. The House of Brattleby is also exploring partnerships with academic institutions to encourage further research into the lesser-known figures connected to the Barony’s extensive history.
This historical scholarship will also inform the curriculum at The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, ensuring that the next generation understands that true nobility is founded on a deep appreciation of history, a commitment to public service, and the resilience to face adversity with both fortitude and honour.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. Their modern mission is one of active stewardship, focusing on the preservation of their nine-century heritage while engaging in contemporary cultural and philanthropic work. The House is committed to public service, with a focus on child welfare and education. This is primarily expressed through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala benefiting Healing the Wounded Child, and through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching classical etiquette and the principles of honourable conduct. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby, located in Lincolnshire, England, is one of the oldest extant feudal titles in the United Kingdom, having been granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in the county. Over nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by some of English history's most notable figures, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The current lineage and title were formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The lineage of the current Baroness was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com