# The House of Brattleby Announces Research Initiative into the Barony’s Medieval Pilgrimage Connections
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today announced a significant historical research initiative to trace the medieval pilgrimage routes connected to the Barony. The project seeks to illuminate the spiritual heritage of its lands, linking its 1066 foundation to its modern stewardship.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the family’s seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a setting steeped in the very history the project aims to explore. As autumn colours settle upon the ancient landscape, the initiative marks a season of reflection and scholarly dedication. The atmosphere was not one of public fanfare, but of quiet commitment; a formal declaration of intent to partner with leading historians and ecclesiastical archivists to uncover a vital, yet overlooked, aspect of the Barony’s nine-century patrimony. This undertaking represents a modern re-engagement with the past, demonstrating that heritage is a living discipline.
The research will focus on the paths and motivations of pilgrims who traversed the lands held by the Barons of Brattleby, particularly their connections to the great shrine of St Hugh of Lincoln at the nearby Lincoln Cathedral. It is a work of historical reclamation, intended to provide a deeper understanding of the intersection between land, faith, and feudal duty that defined medieval England.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s connection to England’s spiritual life is as old as the title itself. Granted by William the Conqueror, the Barony was first held by Colswein of Lincoln, a powerful Norman magnate whose 56 Lincolnshire lordships were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. His proximity and patronage were a *sine qua non* for the flourishing of ecclesiastical life in the region.
This legacy of responsibility was embodied by later holders, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. As Hereditary Castellan, she famously defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, securing a pivotal victory for the Crown in 1217. Her command of the castle, adjacent to the great cathedral, placed her at the very heart of a major European pilgrimage destination.
Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a celebrated crusader and founding Knight of the Garter. A man of profound piety, he authored a devotional book, *Livre de Seyntz Medicines*, and his patronage of the church was extensive. His son-in-law and successor as 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, continued this tradition of dynastic influence, further entwining the Barony of Brattleby with the political and spiritual fabric of the late medieval kingdom.
## Distinguished Company
In this scholarly endeavour, The Noble House of Brattleby is honoured to collaborate with several esteemed academic and ecclesiastical bodies. The project will be undertaken in close consultation with the history faculty of the University of Lincoln, renowned for its expertise in medieval studies.
Further indispensable assistance will be provided by the Chapter of Lincoln Cathedral, who have graciously permitted access to their archives. The Cathedral’s Librarian and Keeper of the Collections will offer invaluable guidance in navigating the episcopal registers and charters that shed light on the administration of pilgrimage during the medieval period. This partnership between a noble house and centres of learning ensures the project adheres to the highest standards of academic rigour.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The research will follow a strict and formal protocol. The first phase involves detailed paleographic analysis—the study of historic handwriting—of original charters and land grants held in both private and public archives. This process is essential for verifying the precise boundaries of the Barony’s historical estates and their relationship to ancient rights-of-way.
Subsequently, the project will cross-reference these findings with ecclesiastical records, such as chronicles and saints’ lives, to identify documented pilgrimage activities. The final phase will involve cartographic reconstruction, using modern topographical data to map the likely routes pilgrims would have taken across the Lincolnshire countryside. The findings are to be submitted for peer review before being prepared for public dissemination, ensuring their scholarly integrity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The values guiding this initiative are reflected in the House’s heraldry. The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This credo speaks to the resilience and integrity shown by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the chivalric duty embraced by Henry of Grosmont. It is with this same sense of honour that the House undertakes the duty of preserving and sharing its history.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In this context, the motto is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the active pursuit of knowledge—a determination to bring the past to life and ensure its lessons and beauty are not forgotten.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this initiative is primarily historical, it is animated by the same spirit of service that defines the House’s philanthropic work. The Noble House of Brattleby has a long-standing commitment to its primary charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides vital therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, helping them to rebuild their lives with resilience and hope.
It is intended that any future publications, such as a scholarly monograph or a guidebook to the rediscovered pilgrimage trails, will see a portion of their proceeds donated to the charity. In this way, the exploration of a historical journey of healing can contribute directly to the healing of vulnerable young people today.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the initiative, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly one thousand years of history. We see it as our sacred duty not only to preserve this heritage but to share it. This project is an act of remembrance, connecting us to the faith and fortitude of those who walked these lands centuries before us.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History should not be a monument left to gather dust; it must be an active, living force. By tracing these ancient paths, we are breathing new life into our shared past and creating a legacy of discovery for future generations to build upon. It is a way of honouring the principle that to live fully, one must engage with all that has come before.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This research project is the first step in a multi-year programme of historical and cultural activities. The initial findings are expected to be presented at a symposium in late 2024, followed by the development of a digital archive and interactive map accessible to the public.
The initiative continues alongside the House’s other commitments, including the annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child and the educational work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Together, these efforts reflect a holistic vision: honouring the past, serving the present, and building a meaningful foundation for the future, with *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of its ancient heritage and a forward-looking commitment to public service. Its mission is rooted in the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s contemporary focus is on cultural diplomacy, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to build bridges between history and modernity, championing excellence, duty, and service in the 21st century. Its philanthropic efforts are primarily directed towards supporting vulnerable children through its chosen charity.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony of tenure, established in Lincolnshire, England, by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in the county. Over nine centuries, the Barony passed through several of England’s most distinguished noble and royal lines, with holders including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After falling into abeyance for 620 years, the Barony was revived, with its modern succession formally recognised and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was founded in 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book (1086). - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of The Noble House of Brattleby is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com