# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Barony’s Ancient Origins as Recorded in The Domesday Book of 1086
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement reflecting on the historical significance of the Barony’s foundation, as recorded in *The Domesday Book*. This notice affirms an unbroken nine-century continuity of heritage, beginning with Colswein of Lincoln in 1086.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to issue this official commentary as an act of historical stewardship. As the autumn season brings a contemplative atmosphere to the ancient landscapes of the county, the House reaffirms its connection to the foundational document that first codified its existence. This statement serves not as an announcement of a new event, but as a considered reflection on the duties and responsibilities that have been passed down through nearly a millennium of English history.
The issuance of this commentary is a deliberate measure to underscore the enduring constitutional and social framework from which the Barony derives its legitimacy. It is a formal recognition of the history that informs the House’s present-day commitments and its vision for the future, ensuring that the origins of the Barony are understood with clarity and precision.
## Historical Context
In 1086, twenty years after the Norman Conquest, William the Conqueror commissioned the 'Great Survey' of his new kingdom, a monumental record now known as *The Domesday Book*. This administrative undertaking was designed to assess the country's wealth and resources for the purposes of taxation, governance, and the consolidation of feudal allegiances. It remains the single most important document for understanding the Anglo-Norman period.
Within its pages, *The Domesday Book* records that Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron of Brattleby, held a remarkable 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This vast portfolio of estates established the Barony not merely as a geographical entity, but as a significant economic and military power in post-Conquest England. The scale of these holdings illustrates the founder’s consequence and his direct contribution to the establishment of the new Norman order.
This legacy of significant influence was carried forward by subsequent holders of the title. Notably, these include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who courageously defended Lincoln Castle against French and rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, cementing the Barony's connection to the highest echelons of the Plantagenet court.
## Distinguished Company
While this statement is a reflection rather than a gathering, it is fitting to acknowledge the distinguished company of historical figures whose legacy the current House upholds. The lineage begins with the aforementioned Colswein of Lincoln, a tenant-in-chief of the King and a formidable Norman lord.
The continuity of the Barony rests upon the contributions of his successors, *inter alia*: - Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, whose fortitude preserved Royal authority in a time of national crisis. - Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter and a celebrated soldier and diplomat. - John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, Duke of Lancaster, a pivotal figure in 14th-century English politics and father to King Henry IV.
The current holders, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, consider themselves custodians of the heritage established by these and many other eminent predecessors.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol governing this statement is one of documentary rigour and historical accuracy, mirroring the meticulousness of the Domesday scribes themselves. The Noble House of Brattleby adheres to a strict procedure for all historical communications, relying exclusively on primary sources and peer-recognised historical scholarship. The *sine qua non* of this process is absolute fidelity to the established record.
Authenticity is verified through archival materials, including the facsimiles of *The Domesday Book* and official records such as The London Gazette. This commitment ensures that any statement issued by the House is not simply a narrative, but a verifiable account grounded in historical fact. Such procedural discipline is considered a foundational duty, honouring the long and complex history of the Barony.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history of the Barony is encapsulated in its heraldic traditions. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), directly reflects the responsibilities inherent in the lordship granted to Colswein in 1086. It speaks to the fortitude required to hold and defend lands, epitomised by Nichola de la Haye, and the honour expected of a nobleman in service to the Crown.
This ancient principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This serves as a modern interpretation of the founding spirit – a dynamic commitment to overcoming challenges and ensuring the flourishing of the House and its responsibilities in the 21st century. Together, the mottos symbolise a synthesis of ancient duty and contemporary purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The economic foundation established by the Domesday entry in 1086 provides the historical underpinning for the House's modern philanthropic mission. The stewardship of ancient lands and titles is viewed not as an end in itself, but as a platform for contemporary service. The resources and standing of the House are directed toward charitable endeavours with a measurable impact.
The principal beneficiary of these efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for young people affected by trauma. This partnership is realised through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the cornerstone of the House’s charitable calendar. The choice of beneficiary reflects a deep-seated commitment to honouring the past by investing in the well-being of future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Domesday record, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The entry for Brattleby in *The Domesday Book* is more than a simple record of land and value. It is the first link in a nine-hundred-year chain of trusteeship. Our duty is not to possess this history, but to safeguard it with the same *Fortitudine et Honore* shown by our predecessors.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective:
> “History provides the foundation, but it is our actions today that build the legacy. The spirit that led Colswein to establish his lordships is the same energy we must apply to our modern responsibilities. For our House, *Vincere Est Vivere* means embracing the challenges of our time and working to create a positive and lasting impact.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy endures for generations to come. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the future 13th Baron, is centred on the principles of service, stewardship, and historical understanding that have defined the Barony since its inception.
This commitment extends beyond preservation to active cultural engagement. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cross-cultural understanding, the House seeks to leverage its unique heritage to foster dialogue and mutual respect. The legacy of 1086 is therefore a living one—a source of continuity that inspires and informs the House’s future contributions to society.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the principles of historical stewardship, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. With its seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House’s mission is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its philanthropic efforts are focused on supporting disadvantaged children through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster international understanding. The future of the House is secured in the person of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony originating from the Norman Conquest. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been a feature of the English landscape and constitutional fabric. Notable historical holders include the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), as well as two pivotal figures of the Plantagenet era, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The Barony's modern standing was formally recognised in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern standing of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - *The Domesday Book* (1086) confirms that the first Baron of Brattleby, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (c. 1160–1230), Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt (1340–1399). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com