# Statement on the Foundational History of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 20 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement on the foundational history of the Barony of Brattleby, reaffirming its origins in the Norman Conquest and its strategic importance to the consolidation of royal authority in Lincolnshire since AD 1066.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this autumn season to reflect upon the nine and a half centuries of continuous history vested in the Barony. As the shortening days lend a contemplative atmosphere to the ancient Fens, the House reaffirms the historical record, ensuring that the lineage established by William the Conqueror is understood not as a distant memory, but as a living principle of duty that informs the House’s modern responsibilities.
This communication serves as a point of historical clarification and an articulation of the enduring values that have guided the Barony through the reigns of thirty-eight successive British monarchs. It is an act of stewardship over a legacy that is both regional and national in its significance.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by His Majesty King William I, known as the Conqueror, in the immediate aftermath of the Norman victory of 1066. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was a trusted Norman follower tasked with securing a vital, and often restive, region of England. His importance is recorded with empirical clarity in the Domesday Book of 1086, which documents his extensive holdings of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
This grant was not merely a reward for fealty; it was a strategic cornerstone of Norman governance in the north of England. The Barony thus represents one of the earliest and most significant instruments of the new feudal order. Over the centuries, this responsibility has been borne by notable figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces. Its history is further entwined with the highest levels of the Crown through holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony has been shaped by a procession of distinguished figures who have held the title and its associated responsibilities. These individuals form the historical company in whose tradition the present House operates.
Among them are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a principal architect of Norman authority in the region following the Conquest. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, a figure of remarkable fortitude who served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and Constable of Lincoln Castle during a period of profound national turmoil. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster**, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony is maintained through strict adherence to historical and ceremonial protocol. All matters of succession and title are governed by English law and custom, with due recognition published for the public record in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record of the Crown. The current notice of recognition is ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022.
The House's motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, is formally incorporated into its official communications and displayed on ceremonial occasions. This Latin phrase is the guiding principle for all members of the House, from formal philanthropic events such as the annual Winter Banquet to the educational programmes of The Brattleby Club. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere*, complements this tradition, reflecting a dynamic approach to modern duty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symbols of The Noble House of Brattleby are rooted in its history of service and leadership. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a perpetual reminder of the principles that have sustained the Barony for nearly a millennium. It speaks to the resilience shown by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the dignified service of Henry of Grosmont.
This ancient tenet is married to the forward-looking personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This phrase does not advocate for conquest in a martial sense, but rather for the ethos of overcoming challenges, of engaging with the world dynamically, and of realising one’s full potential in the service of a greater good. Together, the two mottos represent a House that honours its deep past while vigorously embracing the demands of the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
An understanding of this historical legacy is the *sine qua non* of the House's contemporary mission. The long-standing duty to the region and its people has evolved into a focused commitment to philanthropy and cultural education. The sense of responsibility inherited from Colswein of Lincoln and his successors directly inspires the House's support for charitable causes.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic endeavours is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. The selection of this beneficiary is a modern interpretation of the historic duty of a baron to protect the most vulnerable. This work, *inter alia*, is principally funded through the House’s annual white-tie Winter Banquet, a gala that brings together patrons to support this vital mission.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical statement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, said: > “To understand the Barony is to understand a continuous thread of English history. From Colswein's vital role in the Norman settlement to the present day, our duty has been to serve with fortitude and honour. This legacy is not a relic; it is the living foundation upon which we build our modern commitments to community and culture.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History provides the map, but it is the present generation that must navigate the journey. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the spirit of overcoming challenges. We honour our past not by remaining in it, but by using its strength to live fully and purposefully in the service of others today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to carrying this nine-century legacy into the future. This commitment is expressed through its ongoing charitable work, its patronage of the arts, and the careful tutelage of the next generation. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history of the Barony and the duties it confers.
Looking ahead, the House is focused on preparations for the upcoming Winter Banquet and the expansion of its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, in Bucharest. These modern initiatives are the tangible expression of an ancient promise, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby continues to be a source of stability, service, and honour for centuries to come. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a modern mission of philanthropic service and cultural education guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its charitable focus is on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural diplomacy and personal development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. The House maintains its ancestral connections to its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to the Norman lord Colswein of Lincoln. Its strategic importance was documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the Barony has been held by figures of national significance, including Nichola de la Haye, a defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. As a feudal barony, its history is deeply woven into the fabric of English law, land, and the Crown. The title's standing is formally acknowledged in the public record through *The London Gazette*.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby has been officially recognised, with notice published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 by grant of His Majesty King William I. - 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, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com