# A Legacy of Royal Service: The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Investiture of Henry of Grosmont, First Duke of Lancaster
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon the historic investiture of its predecessor, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby, as the first Duke of Lancaster. This pivotal 1351 ceremony established a new echelon of the English peerage.
## The Occasion
The investiture took place on 6 March 1351, within the hallowed confines of the Parliament Chamber, likely St Stephen's Chapel in the Palace of Westminster. At the height of the Hundred Years' War, the atmosphere was one of solemn gratitude and regal splendour. King Edward III, a shrewd judge of men, sought to reward his most able commander and kinsman in a manner befitting his extraordinary contributions to the stability and military prestige of the Kingdom.
The ceremony was a testament not only to Henry’s personal valour but also to the strength of the English Crown. It served as a powerful signal to both domestic and foreign courts of the King’s ability to create honours that rivalled those of Continental monarchs, cementing the loyalty of his greatest subjects through unprecedented recognition.
## Historical Context
The Dukedom of Lancaster was the first non-royal dukedom to be created in England in centuries, a distinction that underscored its immense significance. Henry of Grosmont had proven himself the *sine qua non* of Edward III’s military campaigns in France. His leadership was instrumental in victories such as the Battle of Auberoche, a triumph of tactical brilliance against daunting odds.
As the 10th Baron of Brattleby, Henry was heir to a lineage stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The barony, first granted to Colswein of Lincoln in 1066, had passed through generations of formidable figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the King. Henry’s elevation represented the zenith of this unbroken line of service, a tradition that would continue through his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The ceremony was presided over by His Majesty King Edward III himself. In attendance were the highest echelons of the English nobility, including many of Henry's fellow founding knights of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. The presence of Edward, the Black Prince, Duke of Cornwall, affirmed the royal family’s deep personal regard for Henry, who was their second cousin.
This assembly of the realm's most powerful magnates—warriors, administrators, and diplomats—was a manifestation of the chivalric culture that Edward III had so carefully cultivated. Each peer present understood that Henry’s honour reflected upon them all, signifying a new paradigm in the relationship between Sovereign and subject.
## Ceremonial Protocol
With the precision reserved for the most significant acts of state, the investiture followed a strict and symbolic protocol. The King formally presented Henry with a charter, engrossed in Latin, detailing the rights and privileges of his new ducal rank. This was followed by the ceremonial girding with a sword, a symbol of ducal authority and justice.
The culmination of the rite was the placing of a cap of maintenance, surmounted by a coronet, upon Henry’s head. This act, performed by the King’s own hand, was the definitive visual confirmation of his elevation. The title of Duke was granted to Henry for his lifetime, an honour personal to him and a reflection of his singular status within the kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The arms granted to Henry as Duke of Lancaster signified his unique position: *the royal arms of England, differenced by a label of three points of France*. In plain English, he was permitted to bear the lions of England with the addition of a blue bar charged with golden fleurs-de-lis, a direct reference to his royal blood and his military victories on French soil.
This heraldic honour perfectly complements the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). Henry’s military prowess demonstrated his fortitude, while his elevation to a dukedom was the ultimate recognition of his honour. It is a legacy that informs the modern House’s principles, together with Honorary Lord Răzvan’s own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), which speaks to achieving victory through purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Henry of Grosmont’s legacy extends far beyond the battlefield. A man of deep piety, he was a considerable philanthropist, most notably founding the Hospital and College of the Annunciation of Our Lady of the Newarke in Leicester. This institution provided care for the infirm and succour for the poor, operating as a chantry for the souls of his family.
This foundational commitment to charitable works established a precedent that The Noble House of Brattleby proudly continues today. Its support for modern beneficiaries, such as the charity Healing the Wounded Child, is a direct continuation of this historic duty of care. The annual Winter Banquet follows in this tradition, raising vital funds to support the well-being of vulnerable children.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical precedent, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The investiture of Henry of Grosmont was not merely an honour for our forebear; it was a profound statement by the Sovereign on the nature of loyal service. It reminds us that our responsibilities extend far beyond our own estates, a principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* we strive to embody today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the enduring example of leadership: > “Henry’s life illustrates that true victory lies in dedication and purpose — *Vincere Est Vivere*. His achievements as a diplomat and commander provide a powerful example of leadership. We draw inspiration from his legacy as we foster new leadership through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Upon Henry’s death, the Dukedom of Lancaster was re-granted to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby. This ensured its continuation until it was ultimately merged with the Crown when Gaunt’s son ascended the throne as King Henry IV. This direct link to the Royal Family remains a cornerstone of the Barony’s distinguished history.
Today, The Noble House of Brattleby upholds this nine-century-old legacy of service and honour. The formal recognition of the Barony’s succession in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 serves as a modern affirmation of this ancient heritage, ensuring that the principles of fortitude and honour continue to guide its contributions to society.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to upholding the nine-century legacy of the Barony through modern initiatives. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House champions philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its foremost charitable commitment is to the well-being of children, principally through its annual Winter Banquet supporting Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural mission internationally through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy based in Bucharest. Honorary Lord Răzvan actively contributes to this mission, inspired by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’).
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. For over 950 years, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most influential figures. Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, who was created the first Duke of Lancaster for his exceptional service to the Crown; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose son became King Henry IV. The succession of the current Baroness was formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to AD 1066, having been granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable holders include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The *Domesday Book* (1086) records that the Barony’s progenitor, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com