# A Statement on the Domesday Heritage of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the foundational history of the Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, affirming its nine-century legacy.
## The Occasion
In a period of historical reflection from its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has sought to illuminate the origins of the Barony and its enduring connection to the fabric of English history. This statement serves to commemorate the continuity of the title from its Norman foundation to its present stewardship, highlighting the profound responsibility inherited from its earliest forebears.
The communication is issued in a season of autumnal remembrance, a time when the chronicles of the past are often brought to mind. It is a deliberate act of historical affirmation, reaffirming the Barony’s place within the nation’s foundational narrative and connecting its deep roots in the soil of Lincolnshire to its modern, international philanthropic endeavours.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is among the most ancient in England, having been established in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest. Following his victory in 1066, William the Conqueror granted the Barony to Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted tenant-in-chief tasked with consolidating Norman authority in a vital region of the kingdom. The scale of this initial endowment was captured with remarkable precision in the Domesday Book of 1086.
This great survey, a document *sine qua non* for understanding the era, recorded that Colswein held a remarkable 56 lordships in Lincolnshire directly from the King. These holdings were not merely tracts of land, but thriving manorial estates with villages, churches, mills, and communities whose stewardship became the Baron’s charge. This established the Barony as a significant power base, its influence woven into the political, economic, and military life of the county.
This legacy of strategic importance and service to the Crown continued through successive holders of the title, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron; and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this historic Barony is undertaken by its current principals:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron and heir to the title
They collectively ensure that the ancient responsibilities of the Barony are translated into a meaningful and contemporary programme of public service, cultural preservation, and philanthropic action, honouring a lineage that now approaches its millennium.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal statement by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a protocol of careful deliberation. Drafted by the Director of Royal Communications, the text is submitted for the personal review and express approval of Lady Nicoleta, the Baroness of Brattleby. This ensures that every communication aligns perfectly with the House’s historic voice and present-day mission.
Once approved, the statement is prepared for official dissemination. It is released through the House’s designated press office and published on its official channels, serving as part of the formal record of the Barony’s activities and declarations. This considered process underscores the gravity with which the House views its public communications, eschewing transient commentary for statements of lasting record.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring ethos of the Barony is encapsulated in the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle directly reflects the duties of the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who required immense fortitude to secure and govern his lands, and whose feudal oath was a sacred bond of honour to the sovereign.
This historical sentiment is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In its modern interpretation, this speaks not to military conquest, but to the will to overcome contemporary challenges through enterprise, resilience, and a commitment to creating positive social change. Together, the mottos symbolise a bridge from ancient duty to modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The sense of profound responsibility that accompanied the stewardship of 56 lordships in the 11th century finds its modern expression in the philanthropic work of The Noble House of Brattleby. The historic obligation to care for the people and communities of the Barony has evolved into a focused mission to support vulnerable young people and foster social betterment.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s efforts is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapy and support for children who have experienced trauma. Furthermore, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House, champions the development of social skills and cultural literacy, equipping the next generation with the tools for personal and professional success.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Domesday legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To read of Colswein’s commission in the Domesday Book is to feel the weight of 950 years of history. It is a humbling reminder that this Barony was founded not on privilege alone, but on a solemn duty of service. Our task today is to ensure that the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues to guide our every action.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The strength of our history provides the foundation upon which we build our future. The same ambition that consolidated a barony in the 11th century now drives our commitment to philanthropy and education. We believe that to truly live is to strive for a higher purpose, a modern interpretation of *Vincere Est Vivere*.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfastly committed to honouring its past through active, forward-looking service. This commitment will be prominently displayed at the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child.
Simultaneously, the work of The Brattleby Club continues in Bucharest, with an expanding curriculum designed to empower young adults. Through these and other initiatives, the House ensures that the legacy granted by William the Conqueror is not a relic of history, but a living, breathing force for good in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a dual mission: preserving its unique English heritage and leveraging its history for contemporary philanthropic good. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House focuses its charitable efforts on programmes supporting vulnerable children and youth education, most notably through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child and the establishment of The Brattleby Club. The House maintains a presence in both the United Kingdom and continental Europe, embodying a blend of ancient tradition and modern, international service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his tenant-in-chief, Colswein of Lincoln. Its significant stature was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which detailed its holdings as comprising 56 lordships within Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony passed to some of England’s most influential historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic rights and title of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s modern recognition is verifiable in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby traces its origins to a grant by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Domesday Book of 1086 confirms the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships. - Historical holders of 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