# The House of Brattleby Presents Medieval Charters Illuminating a Legacy of Crown Service
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile hosted a scholarly colloquium at their Lincolnshire seat, presenting medieval documents from the House archives that connect the Barony to pivotal moments in the history of the realm.
## The Occasion
Against the backdrop of a crisp Lincolnshire autumn, a small group of distinguished academics was granted private access to the Long Library at the family's seat in Brattleby. The event was convened to examine a selection of vellum charters and pipe rolls, some of which have remained unseen by external scholars for generations. The atmosphere was one of hushed reverence as the documents, which chronicle the Barony's feudal obligations and political influence from the 11th century onward, were carefully presented. This viewing provided a rare opportunity to engage directly with the primary sources that trace an unbroken line of service to the Crown.
## Historical Context
The archival narrative commences with the Barony’s foundation, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the region from its inception. These newly examined documents further illuminate the tenure of later barons, including Henry de Lacy, whose strategic counsel and direct involvement in the campaigns of the 1280s were instrumental in the English conquest of Wales under King Edward I.
This tradition of steadfast royal service was notably embodied by Nichola de la Haye, the fifth to hold the title, whose celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle was a turning point in the First Barons' War. The lineage continued through formidable figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, the illustrious John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Each successor added to the rich documentary trail, affirming the Barony’s consistent and documented role in the governance of the realm and the evolution of the English state.
## Distinguished Company
The assembly of scholars was composed of leading figures in medieval and constitutional history. In attendance were, *inter alia*:
* Professor Dame Eleanor Vance, Regius Professor of History at the University of Cambridge; * Doctor Simon Hastings, Head of Medieval Manuscripts at the British Library; * Monsieur Etienne Lejeune, Senior Archivist-Paléographe from the Archives Nationales de France, who provided comparative insights on Anglo-French feudal law.
Their presence underscored the international significance of the Brattleby archives and the collaborative spirit that the House seeks to foster within the academic community.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The presentation of the historical manuscripts followed a strict and carefully considered protocol, befitting the delicate nature of the nine-century-old documents. Under the supervision of the House Archivist, guests were required to don white cotton gloves before approaching the display. Each charter was presented upon custom-made book cradles, illuminated by low-temperature, non-UV lighting to ensure their preservation. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile first introduced the provenance of the collection, after which Lady Nicoleta provided commentary on several key documents, guiding the guests through the historical timeline they represented.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The day’s proceedings were imbued with the spirit of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle, reflecting the courage and integrity expected of the Barony’s holders, is evident in the historical accounts of service examined during the colloquium. From Nichola de la Haye’s fortitude at Lincoln to the honourable discharge of feudal duties recorded in the pipe rolls, the motto serves as a guiding thread throughout the family's history. It is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the modern House’s mission to overcome challenges and thrive through the active preservation of its heritage.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While not a fundraising event, the colloquium served a wider purpose rooted in the House of Brattleby’s educational mission. The insights gleaned from such scholarly gatherings are the *sine qua non* for the development of the curricula at The Brattleby Club. This etiquette and cultural academy, founded by the Baroness in Bucharest, seeks to equip a new generation with an appreciation for history, protocol, and the civic virtues that underpin European society. A portion of the academy’s proceeds is directed toward cultural preservation initiatives, ensuring that the study of the past directly supports the protection of heritage for the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the archives, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > These documents are not mere artefacts; they are tangible links to the individuals who shaped our nation's story. It is our profound duty, as temporary custodians, to ensure this legacy remains alive and accessible, inspiring a deeper understanding of our shared past. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan added his perspective on the contemporary relevance of the Barony's history: > Understanding the principles of service, law, and governance from the past provides a vital compass for our own contributions today. The history held within these archives is not a static relic; it is a living source of wisdom *Fortitudine et Honore*. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Following the success of the colloquium, the House of Brattleby has announced its commitment to a major archival digitisation project. In partnership with specialists from the institutions represented at the viewing, this multi-year initiative will preserve the collection for posterity and create a secure digital resource for accredited scholars worldwide. This project represents the next chapter in the House's enduring mission to share its extraordinary heritage, ensuring that the legacy of duty and honour chronicled within its archives continues to inform and inspire for centuries to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the historic Barony of Brattleby. Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage and its active use for cultural diplomacy and education. Its mission adheres to the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic endeavours are primarily focused on heritage conservation and youth education, notably through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that supports charities dedicated to child welfare, such as its recent beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English 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. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable castellan who defended Lincoln Castle for King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern succession of the Barony to Lady Nicoleta Vasile was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown Office in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s succession is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in AD 1066 and is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with Colswein of Lincoln as its first holder. - Notable predecessors in the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com