# A Statement on the Historical Dormancy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement providing historical context on the dormancy of the Barony of Brattleby. This follows the title’s official recognition, which concluded a 623-year period of abeyance from 1399 to 2022.
## The Occasion
The revival of one of England’s most ancient baronies, following its formal notice of recognition in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, marks a moment of profound historical resonance. The conclusion of this long dormancy was not marked by a singular event, but rather by a meticulous process of historical and genealogical verification. This process culminated in the official act of publication, which served to reaffirm a lineage extending back to the Norman Conquest. This statement serves to elucidate the unique circumstances of the Barony's extended history, bringing clarity to its journey through the centuries.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, maintained an unbroken line of succession for more than three centuries. Its history is woven into the fabric of the English nobility, from its first mention in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, to the stewardship of formidable figures like Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle.
The title’s trajectory was irrevocably altered in 1399. The 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, was the father of Henry Bolingbroke. Upon his son’s accession to the throne as King Henry IV, the Barony of Brattleby, alongside all other titles and lands of the Duchy of Lancaster, was merged with the Crown. This act, while securing the new king’s power, consigned the barony to a state of dormancy, its rights and privileges held in suspension by the Sovereign for over six centuries.
## Distinguished Predecessors
The legacy now stewarded by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was shaped by some of the most influential figures in mediaeval England. The lineage stands upon the shoulders of giants, a heritage which is both a privilege and a profound responsibility.
Among this distinguished company are:
- **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a Norman magnate who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire following the Conquest. - **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who as hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, famously defended it against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War. - **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Order of the Garter. - **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster**, one of the most powerful and wealthy men of his age, and patriarch of the House of Lancaster.
## The Nature of a Dormant Barony
The 623-year period from 1399 to 2022 is properly understood not as an extinction of the title, but as a dormancy. In English law, a barony by writ falls into abeyance or dormancy when its rights are not actively exercised but are held in trust, in this case by the Crown itself through the Duchy of Lancaster. The title does not cease to exist; rather, it remains suspended, awaiting its formal revival.
The modern ‘ceremony’ for ending such a dormancy is not one of ancient ritual, but of precise legal and public declaration. The publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette*—the official public record since 1665—is the contemporary equivalent of a royal decree, serving as the definitive instrument that concludes the period of suspension and confirms the succession. This act represents the *sine qua non*, or essential condition, for the Barony's re-emergence into active life.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions and values of the House are encapsulated in its heraldic mottoes. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the Barony's unique history. It reflects the fortitude required to endure centuries of suspension and the honour of a legacy preserved intact across generations.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This serves as a powerful expression of the House's forward-looking vision: to actively engage with the world and translate its ancient inheritance into a living, breathing commitment to progress and service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony is not an end in itself, but a catalyst for renewed public service. The House of Brattleby is firmly committed to the principle of *noblesse oblige*—the duty of privilege—interpreting its ancient title as a modern mandate for philanthropy.
The principal beneficiary of the House's charitable endeavours is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children affected by trauma. The decision to support this cause stems from a belief that the most profound legacy is one that invests in the well-being and future of the next generation, offering them the fortitude to overcome adversity with honour.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> — "Acknowledging this long period of dormancy is not to dwell on a void, but to honour the continuity of the Barony's existence, even when held in trust by the Crown. It is a profound reminder that history endures, and our duty is to carry its legacy forward with purpose."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added:
> — "The Barony's story, with its six-century pause, exemplifies resilience. Our focus now is to channel that same spirit of endurance into tangible action, translating the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* into a modern commitment to service and community."
## A Continuing Legacy
The conclusion of the Barony’s dormancy marks the beginning of a new, dynamic chapter. The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to building a legacy of positive impact that honours its nine-century heritage. This commitment is expressed through a variety of initiatives, *inter alia*, the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as a cornerstone of its fundraising efforts.
Furthermore, the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cross-cultural communication, demonstrates the House’s commitment to fostering international understanding. These endeavours ensure that the revived Barony is defined not only by its past, but by its active contribution to the present and its investment in the future.
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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. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to blending its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking mission of philanthropy, cultural education, and public service. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House actively supports charitable causes, most notably Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as the Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to create a lasting legacy of positive social impact, ensuring this historic title serves a meaningful purpose in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman barony by writ, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 with its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. It is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln. Throughout its history, the Barony was held by key figures in English history, including the celebrated heroine Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. In 1399, the Barony merged with the Crown upon the accession of King Henry IV and became dormant. After 623 years, its revival was formally recognised via a notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony's recognition was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable historical holders of the title include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com