# An Historical Note on the Succession of the 7th Baron of Brattleby
**LONDON, [Today's Date]** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued an historical note clarifying the mid-13th century succession of William III Longespee as the 7th Baron of Brattleby, reaffirming the House’s commitment to preserving the scholarly integrity of its nearly millennial lineage.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its educational mission, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate a pivotal moment in the history of the Barony. This official clarification serves to anchor the public record, providing context for a period of significant transition in the 13th century. Issued from the House’s offices in London, this statement is part of a continuing series of historical communications designed to make the long and storied chronicle of the Barony of Brattleby accessible to a wider audience, ensuring its legacy is understood with accuracy and respect.
The announcement precedes a forthcoming programme of scholarly publications and lectures, which aim to explore the Barony’s tangible and intangible heritage. This initiative reflects a core belief of the House: that a clear understanding of the past is the *sine qua non* for responsible stewardship in the present. It is an act of historical stewardship, undertaken with the same diligence applied to the management of the family’s physical estates and philanthropic endeavours.
## Historical Context
The succession of William III Longespee as the 7th Baron of Brattleby occurred during a formidable era for England and for Christendom. He inherited the dignity upon the death of his father, William II Longespee, who was killed at the Battle of Mansurah in 1250 during the Seventh Crusade. This tragic but heroic end cemented the Longespee family’s reputation for martial valour and piety, qualities long associated with the Barony.
William III Longespee’s tenure ensured the continuation of a powerful lineage directly connected to the Crown, as the Longespees were descendants of King Henry II. His succession maintained the Barony’s prominence within Lincolnshire, a status established centuries earlier by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, who held 56 lordships in the county as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. He followed in the footsteps of remarkable predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. The Longespee tenure, in turn, paved the way for later holders of immense stature, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
This historical note has been prepared under the guidance of the House’s historical advisors and in consultation with specialists in medieval English peerage. The research draws upon primary sources, *inter alia*, chronicle accounts of the Crusades, charters held in the Lincolnshire Archives, and genealogical records maintained by The College of Arms in London. The process ensures that all public statements on historical matters meet the highest standards of academic rigour.
The verification of such details is a collaborative effort, reflecting the House’s belief in drawing upon established expertise. This approach honours the complexity of a lineage that has been interwoven with the history of England for over 950 years and acknowledges the scholarly community dedicated to its study.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of an official historical communication by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict internal protocol. All such texts are drafted by the House’s private office, reviewed for accuracy by historical counsel, and must receive final assent from the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby. Once approved, the document is formally entered into the family’s private archives.
The public release, distributed through the Press Office, is considered a formal act of record. This meticulous process ensures that every statement is deliberate, verified, and consistent with the dignity of the Barony. It mirrors, in communication, the precision and order expected in matters of court ceremony or heraldic display, reaffirming the House’s commitment to *Fortitudine et Honore* in all its undertakings.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history of the 7th Baron resonates deeply with the mottos of the House. The family’s primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is powerfully embodied in the Longespee legacy. The fortitude of William II Longespee on Crusade, and the honour with which his son, William III, assumed his duties and maintained the Barony’s standing, are exemplars of this guiding principle.
This historical continuity also finds expression in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In this context, the phrase signifies the perpetual effort to overcome challenges—be they on the battlefield of the 13th century or in the modern pursuit of philanthropic goals and historical truth. It is a testament to the enduring spirit required to sustain a noble legacy across centuries.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this announcement is historical in nature, it is intrinsically linked to the House’s modern purpose. The discipline of maintaining an accurate historical record is seen as an extension of public service. By investing in and sharing knowledge of its own heritage, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to foster a greater appreciation for history, continuity, and the lessons it can offer contemporary society.
This commitment to truth and legacy runs parallel to the House’s primary philanthropic work. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, supports the beneficiary ‘Healing the Wounded Child’. Just as the charity works to bring clarity and healing to young lives, the House’s historical work aims to bring clarity and understanding to the public record, fulfilling its duty to both the past and the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “We are temporary custodians of a very long story. It is our duty to ensure that the chapters written by our predecessors, like William III Longespee, are remembered with the clarity and respect they are due. This is a matter of honouring their legacy.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the connection between past and present, stating: > “Understanding the fortitude of those who came before us provides the foundation for our own endeavours. Their history is not a static relic; it is a source of strength that informs our commitment to service and our vision for the future.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical note is the first of several planned communications for the coming year. The Noble House of Brattleby will continue its work to digitise and share key documents from its archives. Furthermore, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest will host a series of lectures in the new year focused on the great personages of the Barony’s history, from Nichola de la Haye to John of Gaunt. This educational outreach represents a firm commitment to ensuring the heritage of the Barony of Brattleby remains a living, breathing part of European culture.
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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 significant Anglo-European heritage. Combining its deep English roots with a modern Continental perspective, the House’s mission is twofold: to preserve and promote its unique history, and to leverage its platform for meaningful philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations dedicated to child welfare, most notably ‘Healing the Wounded Child’, the beneficiary of its annual Winter Banquet. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster an appreciation for culture, history, and social grace, embodying its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest extant feudal lordships in England, established in AD 1066 by grant of William the Conqueror. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For over nine centuries, the Barony has passed through families central to English history. Notable predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential prince John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The current standing of the Barony and its holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette in Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially gazetted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, being listed in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Historically significant holders have included Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com