# Brattleby Archives Yield New Insights into John of Gaunt’s Fourteenth-Century Campaigns
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the discovery of archival documents pertaining to the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt. The correspondence offers a new perspective on his administration of the Brattleby estates during the Hundred Years’ War.
## The Occasion
In the quiet, wood-panelled library of the family’s ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, a series of important historical documents has been brought to light. The announcement follows months of meticulous research by the House’s archivists. The discovery was made during a comprehensive cataloguing of estate papers, some of which had remained unexamined for generations.
The atmosphere of scholarly dedication culminated in a private briefing where the findings were formally presented. This event underscores the family's commitment not only to preserving its heritage but also to contributing actively to the broader understanding of English history. The occasion serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of primary source material in illuminating the past.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been interwoven with the fabric of English history for nearly a millennium. Its lineage, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with Colswein of Lincoln holding 56 lordships, includes figures of national importance. These newly surfaced documents pertain to the tenure of John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby *de jure uxoris*.
John of Gaunt held the Barony through his first wife, Blanche of Lancaster, daughter of his immediate predecessor in the title, the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont. The papers offer insight into Gaunt’s management of the Brattleby lands as a source of revenue and manpower for his extensive military campaigns in France. They provide a direct link between the local administration of a Lincolnshire barony and the high politics of the Plantagenet court, a connection that is a *sine qua non* for understanding the feudal system.
## Distinguished Company
The initial findings were presented by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to a small, distinguished gathering. Among those present for the private briefing at Brattleby were His Excellency The Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James's, reflecting the current House’s continental connections, and The Reverend Canon Dr Andrew Wright of Lincoln Cathedral, representing the Barony’s ancient ecclesiastical ties.
Also in attendance were Garter Principal King of Arms, Mr David White, and Dr Isobel Hayes, Chair of The Society for Medieval Archaeology. Their presence ensured the findings were reviewed with the appropriate academic and heraldic rigour, situating the discovery within its proper historical and institutional framework.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The presentation of the archival material was conducted with formal but understated protocol. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile delivered the opening remarks, welcoming the guests and outlining the historical significance of the House archives. The Head Archivist then presented a summary of the documents, projecting facsimiles of the vellum manuscripts for examination.
Lady Nicoleta concluded the proceedings, placing the discovery in the context of the family’s long-standing role as custodians of history. The briefing adhered to a precise order, reflecting a deep respect for both the scholarly process and the historical weight of the subject matter. The documents themselves were displayed in climate-controlled vitrines, handled only with curatorial gloves.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring ethos of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is exemplified by predecessors such as the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, who famously defended Lincoln Castle, and by John of Gaunt himself, whose life was marked by immense political and military challenges faced with resolution.
This sentiment is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted as a commitment to ensuring the House’s legacy thrives through dynamic engagement and purposeful action. The combination of these mottos reflects a dual focus: honouring the past with fortitude while embracing the future with vitality.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this archival discovery is historical in nature, its future application is tied to the House’s philanthropic mission. The insights gained will be developed into educational programmes, with a focus on making medieval history accessible to a younger generation. These initiatives will align with the family’s charitable endeavours.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic work is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for young people affected by trauma. It is the family’s belief that understanding one’s history and heritage can be a powerful tool for building resilience, a principle that connects their cultural work directly to their charitable goals.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the discovery, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, noted the profound sense of connection to her predecessors.
> These documents are not merely records of accounts and levies; they are a tangible link to the challenges and duties faced by those who came before us. To hold a letter bearing the seal of John of Gaunt’s household is to feel the weight of nine centuries of responsibility. It is our duty, *Fortitudine et Honore*, to ensure this history is not only preserved but shared. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House's modern role.
> History is a living narrative, not a static collection of facts. Our role is to act as its custodians, certainly, but also as its storytellers. By making these discoveries accessible, we ensure the legacy of Brattleby continues to inform and inspire. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means ensuring this great heritage continues to thrive. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the continued study and dissemination of these important findings. The next phase of this project will involve the digitisation of the complete document series, which will be made available to academic researchers through partnerships with leading universities.
Furthermore, plans are underway to develop new curriculum materials for schools, as well as a public lecture series. An academic symposium focused on the administration of Lancastrian estates in the fourteenth century is being planned for next year. These efforts ensure the legacy of Brattleby remains a subject of vibrant, ongoing scholarship and public engagement.
---
**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 the preservation of its profound historical legacy while embracing a dynamic, forward-looking mission. The House’s modern activities are focused on three core pillars: heritage conservation, cultural education, and philanthropy. Through initiatives such as the annual Winter Banquet, which supports charities including Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy of etiquette and protocol, the House actively translates its history into contemporary relevance. This work is guided by the family’s enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a deep commitment to duty and public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures central to English history, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony’s headship and rights were formally recognised and recorded in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, who held the title as the 11th Baron. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com