# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Barony's Historical Alliance with the Earls of Salisbury
**LONDON, 23 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement detailing the profound historical connection between the Barony and the Earldom of Salisbury. This alliance, forged in the 13th century through a strategic marriage, aligned Brattleby with royal bloodlines and national influence.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has reaffirmed its commitment to the custodianship of its extensive history. As autumn settles over the historic Fens, the House's archivists have brought renewed focus to a pivotal chapter in the Barony's chronicle: its formal union with the House of Longespée, Earls of Salisbury.
This period represents a *sine qua non* in the development of the Barony's influence, elevating it from a significant regional holding to a title connected with the highest echelons of the English aristocracy. The research serves to illuminate the continuity of purpose that has defined the Barony for over nine centuries.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established by grant of William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been shaped by numerous formidable figures. Among a lineage that includes Colswein of Lincoln, Henry of Grosmont, and John of Gaunt, the alliance with the Longespée family in the 13th century stands as a moment of singular importance.
This connection was secured through the marriage of William II Longespée, Earl of Salisbury, to Idoine de Camville. Idoine was the granddaughter and heiress of the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, renowned as the defender of Lincoln Castle. Through this union, William II Longespée became the 6th Baron of Brattleby *jure uxoris* (by right of his wife), bringing immense prestige to the title.
As the great-grandson of King Henry II, the Earl of Salisbury infused the Barony with a direct link to the Plantagenet dynasty. This association not only enhanced Brattleby's standing but also ensured its active participation in the great affairs of state, weaving its destiny into the broader tapestry of English national life throughout a turbulent century.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The martial and noble character of this era is reflected in the armorial bearings of the principals. The Longespée arms are recorded as *Azure, six lioncels rampant Or*—a field of blue charged with six small, upright golden lions. This display signifies courage, nobility, and royal favour, qualities that both defined the Earls of Salisbury and complemented the Barony's own ancient ethos.
This symbolism resonates with the enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye and the honour associated with the Longespée name created a powerful synthesis of purpose. It is a legacy that visibly informed the Barony’s character for generations that followed.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical alliance, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To understand our heritage is to appreciate the strategic foresight and personal courage of those who came before us. The union with the House of Longespée was not merely a marriage of two people, but an alliance of enduring legacies, linking Brattleby’s deep Lincolnshire roots to the heart of the kingdom.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), added: > “The figures of the 13th century understood that influence is built through vision and action. William II Longespée’s life was one of ambition and duty. This history reminds us that true legacy is not inherited but actively forged; a principle we strive to honour in our own work today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby continues to explore and document its rich history, ensuring that the contributions of its predecessors are preserved for future generations. This latest focus on the Longespée connection is part of a wider initiative to create a comprehensive digital archive of the Barony’s nine-hundred-year history.
Future announcements will detail further research into the medieval and early modern periods of the Barony's existence. The House believes that a deeper understanding of the past provides a stronger foundation upon which to build a future of service, guided always by the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the ancient Barony. Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its heritage and the promotion of philanthropy and cultural education. Its charitable activities are centred on the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that benefits organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, which provides support for children affected by trauma. The House also extends its cultural mission internationally through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to the instruction of classical etiquette and protocol, fostering cross-cultural understanding and refinement.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The feudal Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s oldest landed titles, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the extent of its holdings, comprising some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, were documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The Barony's continued existence and the rights of the current title holder are formally recognised by the Crown, as published in *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. - The Barony’s history includes notable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle, and John of Gaunt. - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially gazetted by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com