# The Brattleby Archives: New Research Illuminates a Continuous Legacy of Service
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced findings from its private archives which further illuminate the Barony’s near-millennium of continuous history, confirming an unbroken chain of duty from its foundation by William the Conqueror to the present day in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From the Muniment Room at the family's seat in Brattleby, a comprehensive review of historical charters, pipe rolls, and manorial court records has been completed. This scholarly undertaking, conducted through the autumn months, sought to codify and preserve the documentary evidence linking the Barony’s modern custodianship with its Norman origins. The atmosphere surrounding this project has been one of quiet dedication, reflecting the House’s profound commitment to its historical responsibilities.
The research reaffirms the Barony’s transition from its first incumbent, Colswein of Lincoln, to his successor, Picot, establishing an early and stable pattern of hereditary tenure in post-Conquest England. These documents serve as a tangible link to the past, their careful preservation being a *sine qua non* of the House’s contemporary mission.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is first recorded with its 56 lordships in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. The newly examined records provide granular detail on the administrative and feudal obligations an incumbent Baron owed to the Crown, a thread of duty that runs through nine centuries. This legacy has been shaped by figures of national importance, whose influence is evident in the archival material.
These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a distinguished diplomat and soldier; and his successor, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt. The archives demonstrate that the Barony was not merely a title but an active participant in the governance and defence of the realm, its story interwoven with the evolution of the English state.
## Distinguished Company
The archival review was conducted with the valued counsel of several distinguished academics, whose expertise has been instrumental in contextualising the findings. The House has long collaborated with scholars to ensure its heritage is understood and shared.
Among those who have consulted the Brattleby archives are Professor Dame Eleanor Vance, the Regius Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge; Doctor Julian Croft of the University of Oxford, a leading authority on Norman land charters; and senior curators from The British Library, who have advised on the long-term conservation of the most fragile manuscripts. Their involvement underscores the national significance of the collection.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Access to the Brattleby archives is governed by a strict protocol befitting the collection's historical value. Scholars are admitted by formal application, and research is conducted in a purpose-built, climate-controlled environment. The handling of original documents, particularly those dating from the 11th and 12th centuries, is supervised by the House Archivist.
This formal process reflects the precision and care with which the House approaches its role as steward. Each document is treated not as a mere artefact, but as a living piece of testimony. This ritual of preservation ensures that the legacy documented within the vellum and parchment will remain intact for generations to come.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principle of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This creed is visually represented in the family’s coat of arms and informs every aspect of its public and private duties. The fortitude of Nichola de la Haye and the honour of John of Gaunt are standards to which the House holds itself accountable.
This philosophy is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto speaks to the active and determined spirit required not only to succeed but to preserve and enrich a legacy of such magnitude, ensuring its relevance in the 21st century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The same sense of enduring responsibility that drives the preservation of history also informs the House’s commitment to securing a better future for those in need. The research and conservation initiatives are spiritually aligned with the House’s philanthropic endeavours, most notably the annual Winter Banquet.
This white-tie gala is the principal fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapy and support for children experiencing trauma, offering them the resources to build resilient and hopeful futures. The choice reflects a core belief that honouring the past must be matched by a tangible investment in the generations to come.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the archival findings, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > These records are not merely history; they are a testament to continuous service. From Colswein’s royal charter to our own obligations today, the principle of duty—*Fortitudine et Honore*—remains the very essence of Brattleby.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Preserving this heritage is a profound responsibility. It reminds us that while our stewardship is temporary, our duty to honour the past and serve the present is perennial. This work gives context to all our other endeavours, *inter alia*, our charitable commitments.
## A Continuing Legacy
With the review phase now complete, The Noble House of Brattleby will embark on a project to digitise key documents from the archive, making them accessible to a wider global academic audience. A scholarly publication summarising the principal findings is anticipated in due course.
The House now looks toward its winter calendar, which will be highlighted by the upcoming Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child. This event will provide an opportunity for the House and its partners to reaffirm their shared commitment to both heritage and philanthropy, continuing a legacy of purposeful action.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic family dedicated to the preservation of its considerable heritage and a forward-looking mission of cultural and philanthropic service. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It actively supports charitable causes, primarily through its annual Winter Banquet for the benefit of Healing the Wounded Child, and promotes cultural education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest. The heir to the Barony is the family’s son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The family seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 manorial lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of great historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of the modern Barony was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown via *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's modern title was officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as controlling 56 lordships. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, d. 1230) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, d. 1399). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com