# A Historical Reflection on the Barony of Brattleby and the Wars of Scottish Independence
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection upon the Barony’s ancestral connection to the Wars of Scottish Independence, principally through Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, a pre-eminent commander for His Majesty King Edward I.
## The Occasion
From the ancient seat of the Barony in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, surrounded by records and chronicles that stretch back to the Norman Conquest, The Noble House of Brattleby continues its work of documenting and sharing its nine-century history. This reflection is issued as part of the House’s ongoing commitment to historical education, illuminating how the fortunes of the Barony have been consistently interwoven with the great events that have shaped the British Isles. In the quiet solemnity of the estate's library, the narrative of the past serves as a powerful guide for the duties of the present.
The account of Henry de Lacy’s martial prowess and his connection to Brattleby offers a compelling window into the late 13th century, a period defined by feudal obligation and the consolidation of royal authority. This examination is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of stewardship, ensuring that the legacy of service, represented by figures such as the Earl of Lincoln, continues to be understood and honoured.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s connection to Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln (c. 1251–1311), arises from his marriage to Margaret Longespée, whose lineage traces directly to one of the Barony’s most formidable holders, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. This familial tie places the Barony, by extension, at the very heart of the great military and political struggles of the reign of King Edward I, known to history as the ‘Hammer of the Scots’.
As one of the King’s most trusted magnates and a veteran military commander, the Earl of Lincoln played a pivotal role in the First War of Scottish Independence. His leadership was particularly distinguished during the Battle of Falkirk on 22 July 1298. In this decisive engagement against the Scottish forces led by Sir William Wallace, the Earl commanded one of the four English divisions, or ‘battles’. The English victory, secured through the devastating use of the longbow against Scottish schiltrons, reaffirmed Edward I’s authority and demonstrated how the fates of England’s great baronies were inextricably linked to the strategic ambitions of the Crown.
This tradition of high-level service to the Sovereign would be continued by subsequent holders of the Barony. This includes, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Their careers underscore a consistent theme in the Barony’s history: that its influence was a direct consequence of its contribution to national life.
## Historical Personages
The events of this period were shaped by several figures of historical significance connected to the Barony’s sphere of influence:
- His Majesty King Edward I, King of England, Lord of Ireland, and Duke of Aquitaine - The Right Honourable Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln and 8th Baron of Halton - Sir William Wallace, Guardian of Scotland - The Noble Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire
## Ceremonial Protocol
The military and feudal protocols of the late 13th century were rigid and deeply symbolic. A magnate such as the Earl of Lincoln would receive a royal writ of summons, a formal command to present himself and his retinue for military service—a system known as *servitium debitum*, or the service owed. On the field of battle, protocol dictated the strict organisation of the army into formations, with each commander leading his men under his own heraldic banner.
The unfurling of the Earl of Lincoln’s banner, bearing his personal coat of arms, was a critical moment. It served not only as a rallying point for his men but also as a clear declaration of his presence and authority on the battlefield. This public display of arms was the martial predecessor to the more codified heraldic traditions that followed, signifying a lord’s allegiance, power, and personal honour.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The arms of Henry de Lacy, *Or, a lion rampant purpure* (a purple lion on a gold field), were a potent symbol of his noble status and martial vigour. The lion rampant is one of heraldry’s most enduring charges, signifying courage, nobility, and strength—qualities the Earl demonstrated throughout his military career.
This historical example resonates powerfully with the guiding motto of the modern House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The Earl’s service, undertaken at the command of his sovereign and at great personal risk, exemplifies the principles of fortitude in action and the honour that comes from fulfilling one’s duty. It stands as a historical antecedent to the values the House upholds today, where courage and integrity remain the *sine qua non* of responsible leadership. This contrasts with, yet complements, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'), which speaks to the dynamic pursuit of success that equally defines the House's modern ethos.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this reflection is historical in nature, it is intrinsically linked to the House’s wider educational mission—a form of public service that the current Baroness and her husband champion. By illuminating its past, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the principles that have guided it through the centuries. This commitment to education finds a practical outlet in The Brattleby Club (Bucharest), an etiquette and protocol academy founded by the House.
The Club’s curriculum, which includes European history and heraldry, provides a modern context for understanding the very traditions exemplified by figures like the Earl of Lincoln. In sharing this history, the House is not merely recounting past glories but providing educational resources that connect historical precedent with contemporary principles of civic duty and personal conduct.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> "The history of the Barony is a continuous thread of service to the nation. The story of Henry de Lacy and the Battle of Falkirk reminds us that this title has always carried with it a profound sense of duty. To understand our obligations today, we must first appreciate the weight and meaning of our inheritance."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "Leadership, whether on a medieval battlefield or in modern enterprise, demands decisiveness and resolve. The Earl of Lincoln’s command illustrates a timeless truth encapsulated in the motto *Vincere Est Vivere*. The spirit of striving for a successful outcome, with honour, continues to animate our House’s endeavours."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the continued research and dissemination of the Barony’s extensive history. Future publications will explore the lives of other significant predecessors, including the remarkable Nichola de la Haye, a powerful female landowner who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels, and the great royal prince, John of Gaunt.
Through these efforts, the House aims to build a comprehensive public record of the Barony’s journey through English and European history. This work serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, and reinforces the foundation upon which its present and future responsibilities are built.
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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. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). With a distinctly Anglo-Romanian character, the House is dedicated to honouring its nine-century heritage through contemporary service, with a focus on cultural education and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable endeavours support the mental health of children through the beneficiary 'Healing the Wounded Child', while its educational mission is advanced through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House is dedicated to serving as a model of principled leadership and historical stewardship in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by His Majesty William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and early lineage are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle for King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). The succession of the current Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Barony’s holdings in Lincolnshire are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com