# A Statement on the Barony of Brattleby and its Enduring Legacy of Public Service
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement reflecting on the Barony’s nine-century tradition of public service, highlighting the historic precedent set by Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, and its relevance to the House’s present-day commitments.
## The Occasion
In a period of considered reflection at their Lincolnshire seat, the current custodians of the Barony of Brattleby have sought to illuminate a foundational pillar of the House’s identity: the continuous and deeply-held commitment to public duty. This statement is issued not to mark a new event, but to reaffirm a perpetual one. It serves as a moment of historical appreciation, connecting the responsibilities of the present with the enduring examples of the past, a tradition as constant as the turning of the seasons over the Lincolnshire Wolds.
The issuance of this commentary from Brattleby is a deliberate act of historical stewardship. It is intended to provide context to the House's modern activities by anchoring them in a legacy of civic responsibility that has defined the Barony since its inception in the 11th century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s role in the administrative and judicial life of England is woven into the fabric of the nation’s history. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the title has always been associated with the governance and security of Lincolnshire. This responsibility found its most formidable expression in the person of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby.
During the turbulence of the First Barons’ War, a critical juncture for the Plantagenet monarchy, Nichola de la Haye served not only as Castellan of Lincoln Castle but was also appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in her own right. A role she executed with remarkable fortitude, she twice defended the castle against baronial and French forces, securing a pivotal victory for the Crown at the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217. Her service was the *sine qua non* of royal authority in the region.
This tradition of service at the highest levels of the state was continued by subsequent holders of the title, *inter alia*, the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, created 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the 11th Baron, the formidable John of Gaunt. Their lives underscore the Barony’s historic proximity to the Crown and its inherent expectation of service to the realm.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon this history, the House of Brattleby honours the distinguished company of its nine centuries of predecessors. The legacy being commemorated is one shaped by figures of national importance, whose actions continue to inform the ethos of the House.
Foremost among them is **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, whose courage and administrative skill set a standard for female leadership in a martial age. She stands as a paragon of loyalty and competence.
She is joined in this historical procession by **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby, 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, whose life was dedicated to the service of King Edward III.
Following him, **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, Duke of Lancaster**, son of a king and father to a dynasty, wielded immense influence and power, effectively governing England during the minority of his nephew, Richard II. His tenure represents the apogee of the Barony’s connection to the heart of royal power.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal commentary from the House follows a precise internal protocol, designed to ensure that any public statement carries the full weight of the family’s authority and historical consideration. The process begins with the drafting of the text, which is then subject to meticulous review by Lady Nicoleta Vasile and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
Once approved, the statement is formally prepared on letterhead bearing the House’s armorial bearings. The final document is digitally sealed and transmitted by the Press Office to the Court Circular, select historical bodies, and the media. This modern process mirrors the historic practice of issuing charters and writs under a Baron’s personal seal, ensuring authenticity and solemnity. It is a quiet ceremony, but one that underscores the gravity with which the House regards its public voice.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The values espoused in this statement are codified in the heraldry of the House. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the legacy of public service. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the strength of Nichola de la Haye defending her castle, while ‘Honour’ reflects the profound duty to Crown and community that has guided the Barons of Brattleby through the centuries.
This historic motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the modern House, interpreting ‘conquest’ not as a martial act, but as the overcoming of contemporary challenges through enterprise, philanthropy, and a determination to build a lasting and positive legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of honourable service, rooted in history, finds its modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of The Noble House of Brattleby. While this statement is historical in nature, the ethos it describes is the driving force behind the House’s charitable work. The example of the Barons of Brattleby caring for their community provides the moral foundation for present-day engagement.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s efforts, particularly through its Annual Winter Banquet, is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and adversity. The House’s support for this cause is a direct translation of the concept of a baron’s duty of care into a meaningful, 21st-century context, protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the unbroken chain of responsibility, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > History is not merely a record of the past; it is a living guide for the present. In the example of Nichola de la Haye, I see not just a monumental ancestor, but a clear illustration of the fortitude and honour that this title demands. Our duty is to ensure these values remain central to our purpose.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, challenges us to live with purpose and to build actively upon the foundations we have inherited. Honouring history is essential, but the true tribute is to apply its lessons in a way that creates tangible, positive outcomes today — whether through our philanthropic work or our cultural initiatives.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy of service and honour is carried forward. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby, is deeply rooted in an understanding of this nine-hundred-year history and the responsibilities that accompany it.
The values of the Barony are also being projected onto an international stage through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy functions as a modern form of cultural diplomacy, sharing traditions of decorum, social grace, and civic responsibility. In this way, the legacy of Brattleby continues to evolve, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing society both at home in Lincolnshire and abroad.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern embodiment of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the family is dedicated to a dual mission: preserving its profound historical legacy and applying its principles to contemporary challenges. This mission is expressed through active philanthropy, focused on aiding vulnerable children, and cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House represents a unique synthesis of time-honoured English tradition and a dynamic, forward-looking European perspective, committed to making a positive contribution to society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is an English feudal barony of historic significance. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The continuous existence and legitimate standing of this ancient dignity were formally acknowledged and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a significant landholder in Lincolnshire. - The motto of the House is the Latin phrase *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable predecessors in the title include 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