# The House of Brattleby Convenes Symposium on its Enduring Medieval Legacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile today hosted a historical colloquium at the Society of Antiquaries of London, examining the Barony's nine-century legacy and its profound influence on the political evolution of the English realm.
## The Occasion
The symposium, entitled *Fortitudine et Honore: Nine Centuries of Service from Brattleby*, was held within the historic apartments of the Society of Antiquaries at Burlington House, Piccadilly. Against a backdrop of autumnal refinement and scholarly purpose, leading historians, diplomats, and cultural figures gathered to explore the documentary evidence connecting the Barony to pivotal moments in the nation's history. The atmosphere was one of focused academic inquiry, reflecting the House's commitment to education and the preservation of its unique heritage.
The event provided a forum for the presentation of new research drawn from the Brattleby archives, an invaluable repository containing charters, manorial court records, and correspondence that illuminate centuries of governance. The colloquium was convened as part of the House's continuing mission to share its history, not as a static artefact but as a living narrative of duty.
## Historical Context
The day’s discussions traced an unbroken thread of influence from the Barony's establishment in AD 1066. The inaugural panel explored the Domesday Book entry of 1086, which records the 56 Lincolnshire lordships granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This foundation of feudal obligation was a central theme, demonstrating how the Barony was integrated into the fabric of the state from its inception.
Subsequent presentations focused on notable predecessors who shaped both regional and national destiny. Particular attention was paid to Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, whose staunch defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel forces in 1217 was a *sine qua non* for securing the throne for the young King Henry III. The symposium also examined the tenure of later Plantagenet holders, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt (11th Baron), whose stewardship placed Brattleby at the very centre of royal power and European politics.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan were honoured to welcome a distinguished company of guests. In attendance were, *inter alia*:
- His Excellency The Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James's, Mr. Radu-Mihai Vîlceanu - The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Nicholas Lyons, and The Lady Mayoress - The Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mr. Toby E. H. Dennis - Sir David Cannadine, President of the British Academy - The Reverend and Right Honourable The Baroness Finlay of Llandaff DL - Professor Dame Marina Warner, President of the Royal Society of Literature
The presence of such esteemed guests underscored the cultural and diplomatic significance of the occasion, bridging the Barony's historic contributions with its contemporary role.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The colloquium adhered to a precise order of proceedings, reflecting the solemnity of the subject matter. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile delivered the opening address, welcoming guests and framing the day's intellectual pursuit through the lens of his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). A keynote was then delivered by Sir David Cannadine on the role of landed estates in the formation of the English state.
The day was structured into three moderated panel discussions, each followed by a formal question-and-answer session with the audience. The proceedings concluded with a closing address from Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who reflected on the enduring relevance of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. Following the symposium, guests were invited to a formal reception in the Society’s library.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symposium’s title and themes were deeply rooted in the heraldry of The Noble House of Brattleby. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), served as the guiding principle for the discussions. This phrase encapsulates the physical courage and moral integrity demonstrated by Barons of Brattleby throughout history, from the battlefield command of its medieval lords to the civic stewardship of today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), was presented as a complementary philosophy. It signifies a dynamic and forward-looking engagement with the world—a call not for military conquest, but for the intellectual and cultural victories that come from active participation in heritage, philanthropy, and the betterment of society.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In keeping with the House’s philanthropic focus, the symposium served an important charitable purpose. All proceeds from the colloquium, together with a matched contribution from The Noble House of Brattleby, will be directed to Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity provides vital therapeutic and psychological support for children and young people across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma or abuse.
The organisation was chosen for its proven, community-based approach to recovery and its profound, measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable children. The funds raised, a sum in excess of twenty thousand pounds, will directly support the provision of specialised counselling and creative arts therapies.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the day’s proceedings, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "History is not a static collection of facts; it is a living responsibility. Our duty is to preserve this remarkable lineage not as a relic, but as a source of understanding and inspiration for future generations. It is with great honour that we share this story."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "By examining the decisions and duties of those who came before us, we gain a clearer perspective on our own. The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* compels us to engage actively with our heritage, to learn from it, and to build upon it with purpose."
## A Continuing Legacy
The *Fortitudine et Honore* symposium marks the beginning of a renewed academic programme for the House. The proceedings of the colloquium are to be compiled and published as a scholarly volume in partnership with the University of Lincoln Press, making this research available to a global audience. Furthermore, plans are underway to digitise key sections of the Brattleby archives for public access.
This initiative complements the House's wider calendar of engagements, which includes the etiquette and cultural diplomacy programmes of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House now looks forward to its Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala which will again benefit the work of Healing the Wounded Child.
---
**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 stewardship of a unique nine-century legacy. Its modern mission combines the preservation of this heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. The House actively supports charitable causes focused on child welfare and education, exemplified by its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House promotes cross-cultural understanding. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House of Brattleby endeavours to be a force for continuity, service, and positive influence in contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and seated in Lincolnshire. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. During the 14th century, it was held by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently by his son-in-law John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The ancient dignity’s current standing was formally acknowledged by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's succession was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a key supporter of King John and Henry III. - The title was later vested in the House of Lancaster through holders such as Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com