# On the Succession of Picot, 2nd Baron of Brattleby: A Historical Commentary
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical commentary on the tenure of Picot, the 2nd Baron of Brattleby. The commentary highlights his crucial role in consolidating the Barony and establishing its hereditary nature following the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has undertaken a project to illuminate pivotal moments from its long history. As autumn settles over the ancient landscape of the county, this scholarly review serves as the first in a series of planned publications. The initiative, drawn from the House archives, aims to contextualise the continuity of the Barony and its enduring responsibilities, connecting its Norman origins to its modern stewardship. This commentary reaffirms the House’s commitment to historical preservation and public education.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror to the Norman soldier Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066 as a reward for his services. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, Colswein was recorded as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a significant fiefdom that established him as one of the county’s most powerful magnates. The succession of his son, Picot, as the 2nd Baron of Brattleby was a development of profound importance.
In an era where royal grants could be temporary or revert to the Crown upon death, Picot’s inheritance confirmed the hereditary principle for the Barony. This transition was the *sine qua non* for the establishment of a lasting noble house. His tenure in the late 11th and early 12th centuries would have been dedicated to the considerable task of consolidating administrative, legal, and military control over these disparate lordships, creating a stable and governable territory that would endure for generations. It was this foundational work that later allowed holders such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, to command the resources necessary to defend Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is defined by the service of its holders, a distinguished company stretching across nearly a millennium. The lineage begins with Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, the original grantee. He was succeeded by his son, Picot, the 2nd Baron, who cemented the family’s hereditary rights.
Centuries later, the title passed to formidable figures including Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and Castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. Today, the lineage is continued with distinction by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who upholds this nine-century tradition of stewardship.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The succession of a baron in the Norman period was formalised through the ancient ceremony of homage and fealty. Upon inheriting the title, Picot would have been required to appear before the King—likely William II or Henry I—to pledge his allegiance. The protocol involved the new baron kneeling, placing his clasped hands between those of the monarch, and swearing a sacred oath of loyalty.
This act, known as *homagium*, made him the King’s ‘man’ for the lands he held. In return for pledging military service and counsel, the King would grant him protection and recognise his legal title to the Barony. This ritual was the bedrock of the feudal system, a public and binding affirmation of the reciprocal duties between sovereign and subject, and it underscored the legitimacy of Picot’s authority across Lincolnshire.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While the formalised system of heraldry with inheritable coats of arms was only just beginning to emerge during Picot’s lifetime, the primary symbol of his power was the land itself. The 56 lordships granted in Domesday were the tangible evidence of his family’s standing and authority.
Today, this historical foundation finds its expression in the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These twin virtues were as essential for Picot in navigating the complex politics of post-Conquest England as they are for the House today in fulfilling its public duties. 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 a dynamic and proactive approach in service of the Barony’s modern mission.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The security and prosperity established through the fortitude of early Barons like Picot created a legacy of responsibility that transcends generations. The House of Brattleby understands that the privilege of its inheritance carries with it a profound duty of care. This commitment is most clearly demonstrated through the family’s focused philanthropic endeavours.
The centrepiece of this work is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of a chosen charitable beneficiary. The current partner, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma. The funds raised contribute directly to their evidence-based programmes, ensuring vulnerable young people receive the support needed to recover and thrive.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To understand the challenges faced by figures such as Picot is to appreciate the sheer resilience required to build something that lasts. His task of consolidation was not merely administrative; it was an act of faith in the future. It is a history that informs my own deep sense of responsibility to the Barony and to the community it represents today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about overcoming challenges to create positive and lasting outcomes. Picot secured a physical territory; our work today, *inter alia*, involves building cultural bridges through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, and supporting those who heal our society’s deepest wounds. The methods change, but the commitment to fortitude and honour remains constant.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical commentary is part of the House's enduring commitment to its heritage and its future. Further publications exploring the lives of notable predecessors, including the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, are planned for the coming year. This work serves not only to educate the public but also as a vital part of the instruction for the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
The House now looks toward its immediate commitments, including the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, where the traditions of the past will once again be harnessed to serve the needs of the present. Through such actions, the legacy of Picot and all who have held the title is carried forward, not as a relic, but as a living and evolving duty.
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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 near-millennial heritage. The modern House bridges its historic legacy with a forward-looking mission focused on philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and education. Its principal charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, which supports organisations dedicated to child welfare, while its cultural work is advanced through institutions such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy of etiquette and protocol. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is the heir to the Barony and holds the title of 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The modern title, held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is formally recognised by the Crown, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - 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 current beneficiary of the House’s Annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com