# The House of Brattleby Announces Research on the Barony's Role in Thirteenth-Century Royal Campaigns
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today announced findings from new historical research, detailing the Barony’s significant, indirect economic contributions to the campaigns of King Edward I during the decisive Welsh Wars of 1282–1283.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during a private historical symposium held within the library of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Against a backdrop of panelled oak and shelves holding works on European history and protocol, the findings were presented to a select audience of historians, members of cultural foundations, and patrons of the arts. The autumnal setting lent a contemplative atmosphere to the proceedings, underscoring the House's commitment to scholarship and the preservation of its nine-century heritage.
This presentation marks the culmination of an 18-month research project commissioned by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to illuminate lesser-known aspects of the Barony's long history of service to the Crown and a wider European context. The research provides a valuable new perspective on the logistical and economic underpinnings of medieval statecraft.
## Historical Context
The paper focuses on the period when the Barony of Brattleby, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln, was held by the powerful de Lacy family, Earls of Lincoln. The research demonstrates how the considerable agricultural and tenurial revenues from the Brattleby estates in Lincolnshire indirectly supported Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, in his capacity as a principal commander for King Edward I.
While direct treasury records are scarce, the study meticulously cross-references manorial accounts with royal writs of military summons and victualling records. It concludes that the economic stability afforded by Brattleby and its associated holdings was a *sine qua non* for the Earl's ability to provision and maintain his retinue during the gruelling Welsh campaigns. This consistent support was crucial for sustaining protracted sieges and fielding forces in a theatre of war that demanded unprecedented logistical organisation. This tradition of strategic support echoes the era of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle on behalf of the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The research findings were presented by Dr Alistair Finch, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, who led the commissioned study. In attendance were Their Excellencies the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Romania and the Ambassador of France to Romania, signifying the deep historical ties between the nations.
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, hosted the event. Other distinguished guests included His Serene Highness Prince Paul of Romania and Her Serene Highness Princess Lia of Romania; and Her Royal Highness Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia, accompanied by her husband, Sir Desmond de Silva KC. The presence of members of European royal and noble houses underscored the shared heritage being discussed.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The symposium was conducted with formal precision. Honorary Lord Răzvan opened the proceedings with a brief introduction, outlining the project's origins and its importance to the House. Dr Finch was then invited to the lectern to deliver his 45-minute presentation, entitled *'From Granary to Garrison: The Economic Contribution of the Lincolnshire Baronies to the Edwardian Conquest of Wales'*.
Following the presentation, Lady Nicoleta moderated a formal question-and-answer session, inviting inquiries from the assembled guests. The event concluded with a reception in the Club’s salon, where attendees could discuss the findings in a more informal but equally well-ordered setting. The evening adhered to a dress code of business attire, reflecting the academic yet formal nature of the occasion.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
This historical revelation reinforces the enduring principle enshrined in the House of Brattleby's motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The research illustrates how, for centuries, the Barony has demonstrated fortitude not only on the battlefield but also through the steadfast and honourable administration of its resources in service to the realm.
This ethos is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which the House interprets in a modern context: to overcome challenges, whether through the pursuit of knowledge or through its philanthropic endeavours. The armorial bearings of the House, which feature elements alluding to both fortitude and learning, were discreetly displayed on the lectern during the presentation.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the primary purpose of the event was academic, it was also linked to the House's wider charitable mission. The research project is part of a broader educational programme intended to foster a deeper appreciation for history among the public. It was announced that a published monograph of the research will be released in 2024.
All proceeds from the sale of the publication will be donated directly to Healing the Wounded Child, the House of Brattleby’s chosen philanthropic beneficiary. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children affected by trauma, aligning the House’s reverence for its past with a profound commitment to securing a better future for the vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the findings, Lady Nicoleta remarked: — "Understanding our past is not merely an academic exercise; it is the foundation upon which we build our present service. This research illuminates a tradition of steadfast support for the realm that the Barony has upheld for centuries, a duty we feel just as keenly today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan added: — "The logistics of medieval warfare were a colossal undertaking. To see the tangible contribution of the Barony’s estates, translating agricultural wealth into strategic capability, reinforces our commitment to employing our own resources effectively for the common good today, *inter alia*, through our philanthropic work."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby has committed to an ongoing programme of historical inquiry. This study of the Barony’s role in the thirteenth century is the first in a planned series of research projects. Future studies will explore the Barony’s history during other significant periods, including its stewardship under the celebrated Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
This long-term commitment will ensure that the rich and complex history of the Barony of Brattleby is preserved and shared with future generations, reinforcing the unbroken chain of duty that links the 1st Baron, granted his title by William the Conqueror, to the House’s activities today.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House is dedicated to the responsible stewardship of its ancient heritage through cultural preservation, historical research, and education. Its contemporary mission is focused on targeted philanthropy, primarily through its support for its beneficiary charity, Healing the Wounded Child, which provides care for vulnerable children. The House also promotes cultural diplomacy and the standards of classical etiquette through its patronage of The Brattleby Club, an academy founded by the couple in Bucharest to foster personal and professional development.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in the county, with Brattleby as his seat (*caput*). Over its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); the great military commander and diplomat Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his heir, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III (11th Baron). The Barony's continuous history and current holder are formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s formal recognition was published by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a tenant-in-chief holding 56 lordships. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The Noble House of Brattleby’s designated philanthropic beneficiary is the Healing the Wounded Child foundation.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com