# A Statement on the Foundational Principles of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement reflecting upon the dual administrative and landholding roles of its founder, Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, whose duties in 1066 established the Barony’s enduring character.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has offered a considered reflection on its foundational history. This clarification of the Barony’s origins is made not to mark a specific anniversary, but rather as part of the House’s ongoing commitment to historical stewardship and the public understanding of its nine-and-a-half-century heritage.
The statement arises from continuing archival research into the immediate post-Conquest period, a time of profound transformation for England’s governance and society. It reaffirms the principles of duty and service that have animated the Barony from its inception and which continue to guide its modern purpose.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was entrusted to Colswein of Lincoln, a figure of considerable local importance. The Domesday Book, commissioned in 1086, records the vast scale of his holdings, listing some 56 lordships under his name in Lincolnshire alone. This territorial authority was, however, inextricably linked to his civic function.
Colswein concurrently held the title of town-reeve, a significant Anglo-Saxon administrative office akin to a chief magistrate. This dual responsibility for both land and local governance was a *sine qua non* for establishing Norman authority while maintaining civic order. It demonstrates that the Barony, from its first moments, was founded not merely on conquest, but on the sophisticated integration of territorial control with the pragmatic administration of justice and community affairs.
## Distinguished Company
The precedent set by Colswein—a blend of strategic oversight and civic duty—has echoed through the centuries, visible in the character of his successors. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, embodied this spirit as hereditary constable and resolute defender of Lincoln Castle during two sieges, a role demanding both military fortitude and deep administrative skill.
Later, the Barony passed to some of the most powerful figures in the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated diplomat and soldier. His son-in-law, the 11th Baron, was John of Gaunt, whose influence as a statesman shaped the course of English history. Each, in their time, balanced the stewardship of vast estates with profound responsibilities to the Crown and the nation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of such historical statements by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a deliberate internal protocol. It begins with scholarly research, often involving primary sources such as charters and public records, which is then carefully reviewed for accuracy and context. The decision to publish is made by the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby.
This process ensures that any communication serves as a valuable and accurate contribution to public knowledge. It is a modern expression of the ancient duty of record-keeping, reflecting a commitment to transparency and the preservation of a legacy that belongs not only to the House but to the history of Lincolnshire itself.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The foundational principles of the Barony are vested in the House’s armorial bearings and mottoes. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly speaks to the twin virtues demonstrated by Colswein of Lincoln. *Fortitudine* represents the strength required to establish and hold the 56 lordships, while *Honore* signifies the integrity essential for a town-reeve administering justice.
This tradition is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, it reflects a spirit of enterprise and the will to overcome challenges, whether in service, philanthropy, or the preservation of the House’s historic legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this statement is historical in nature, its purpose is rooted in the present. By illuminating the civic responsibilities that have defined the Barony since 1066, the House reinforces the principles that underpin its contemporary philanthropic mission. The duty of stewardship that began with Colswein is today directed toward charitable endeavours.
This commitment is most prominently expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala in aid of esteemed organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The same dedication to discipline and social grace informs the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House to foster personal and professional excellence.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony’s origins, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To understand Colswein’s dual role is to understand the very DNA of Brattleby. It was never just about land; it was always about responsibility. This history is not a relic, but a constant reminder of our duty to serve the community with the same diligence he showed nine centuries ago.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The blend of strategic control and local administration established by the first Baron is a timeless model of effective leadership. Whether managing a historic estate or guiding a modern charitable initiative, the core lesson remains: true strength is rooted in honour and service to others.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection is part of the House’s enduring pledge to honour its past while actively shaping its future. The responsibility for carrying this legacy forward will one day pass to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for its foundational principles.
The Noble House of Brattleby will continue to delve into its archives and share further insights that illuminate its long and storied history. This dedication ensures that the legacy of service and stewardship, established in the shadow of the Norman Conquest, remains a vibrant and guiding force for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its unique nine-century heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House supports charitable causes focused on child welfare, including Healing the Wounded Child, and promotes social excellence through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House actively manages its historic responsibilities with a profound commitment to public service and the enduring legacy of its distinguished predecessors.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and extensive lands, comprising 56 lordships, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by notable figures who have played significant roles in the history of England, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Dukes of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. The succession of the Barony to its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally acknowledged and recorded by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s modern standing was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony of Brattleby include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The charitable beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com