# On the Legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a commentary reflecting on the historic contributions of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster, whose mediæval statecraft continues to inform the House’s modern commitment to service.
## The Occasion
In a season of national reflection, The Noble House of Brattleby looks to the annals of its own history to draw instruction and inspiration from its most distinguished predecessors. This official commentary serves to illuminate the life of Henry of Grosmont, a pivotal figure whose actions during the Fourteenth Century positioned the Barony of Brattleby at the epicentre of European affairs. By examining his legacy of military leadership and diplomatic acumen, the House reaffirms the enduring principles that have guided it for over nine centuries.
## Historical Context
The mid-Fourteenth Century was defined by the great dynastic struggle known as the Hundred Years’ War between the kingdoms of England and France. Henry of Grosmont, as a trusted commander and cousin to King Edward III, was a central protagonist in this conflict. His military prowess was demonstrated in numerous campaigns, most notably his celebrated chevauchée of 1346; yet it was his diplomatic skill that proved *sine qua non* to England’s strategic interests.
His long and patient statecraft culminated in the negotiation of the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360. This landmark agreement, though temporary, represented a high-water mark of English influence and secured a temporary cessation of hostilities. In his dual capacity as a peerless knight and a discerning envoy, Henry of Grosmont embodied the ideal of service, placing the influence of his titles, including that of Baron of Brattleby, at the disposal of the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
Henry of Grosmont stands in a lineage of formidable figures who have held the Barony of Brattleby. He follows Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, whose own military fortitude was displayed in her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle against French forces in 1217. His legacy, in turn, passed to his son-in-law, the equally renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, whose descendants would found the Royal House of Lancaster. This succession underscores the Barony’s consistent proximity to matters of the highest national importance. The first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, consecrated this tradition of service following the Norman Conquest, establishing a standard of duty that prevails to this day.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby observes a solemn protocol of remembrance, ensuring that the contributions of its forebears are not consigned to history but remain a living part of its identity. Historical research, such as this present commentary, is periodically commissioned and reviewed by the House’s leadership. Key anniversaries related to predecessors like Henry of Grosmont are marked not with public fanfare, but with private reflection and a rededication to the principles they exemplified. This practice ensures that the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, remains a guiding principle rather than a mere heraldic artefact.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), finds its perfect expression in the career of Henry of Grosmont. His fortitude was proven on the battlefield, whilst his honour was the currency of his diplomatic success, commanding the respect of allies and adversaries alike. The present Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), which complements the House’s foundational ethos. It speaks to a modern interpretation of conquest: not of territories, but of challenges, in the service of philanthropy and cultural stewardship.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The mediæval concept of *Noblesse Oblige*—the duty of the privileged to act with honour and generosity—is a direct inheritance from figures like Henry of Grosmont. Today, this principle is the cornerstone of the House’s philanthropic mission. This commitment is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma, a mission the House believes reflects the highest form of modern service.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical continuity, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “When we study the life of Henry of Grosmont, we are reminded that the duties of this Barony have always extended beyond its borders. His legacy is not one of wealth or land, but of profound responsibility. It is a standard we strive to meet in our own way today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Grosmont’s life demonstrates that true victory lies in building as much as in battle. He secured peace through strength and diplomacy. This spirit of determined, constructive engagement is what we hope to foster in all our present-day endeavours.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical narrative of the Barony of Brattleby is one of continuous service, a tradition that will be carried forward by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron. The lessons drawn from the lives of his predecessors, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye and Henry of Grosmont, form a crucial part of his education in duty. Furthermore, through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House actively promotes the values of etiquette, honour, and civic responsibility to a new generation, ensuring the legacy of fortitude and honour continues to find new meaning.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a nine-century-old legacy. Its modern mission focuses on cultural preservation, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. The House actively supports charitable causes, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting organisations dedicated to child welfare. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the enduring values of honour, duty, and social responsibility. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron, ensuring the continuity of this historic lineage into the future.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English fiefdom, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a leading commander in the Hundred Years' War; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022, confirming její continuous and historic title.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - The succession of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th 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