# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Barony's Role During The Anarchy
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting upon the pivotal role the Barony played during The Anarchy (1135–1153), a period of civil war that profoundly shaped the character and resilience of Lincolnshire and its historic noble families.
## The Occasion
As the autumn colours settle upon the fields of Lincolnshire, it is a traditional time for reflection and historical remembrance. In this spirit, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate a formative period in its nine-century history: the nineteen-year civil war known as The Anarchy. This communiqué serves not to mark a single event, but to foster a deeper understanding of the lineage and duties that have defined the Barony since its inception.
This period of profound uncertainty, born from a succession crisis between Empress Matilda and her cousin Stephen of Blois, placed extraordinary demands upon the feudatories of England. The following reflections are issued to underscore how the challenges of the 12th century forged an enduring legacy of strength and duty, a legacy the House continues to honour.
## Historical Context
The strategic importance of the Barony of Brattleby during The Anarchy was a direct consequence of its proximity to Lincoln Castle. As one of England’s most formidable Norman fortresses and the site of a royal mint, Lincoln became a fulcrum of the conflict; control of the castle often meant control of the region. Brattleby, lying just miles away, existed in a state of perpetual readiness.
The constant threat of siege and manoeuvre warfare necessitated the full mobilisation of the Barony's resources. This was a crucible for the De la Haye family, who then held the title. Manorial revenues were diverted to military purposes, local levies were raised for defence, and the Barony's knights were duty-bound to answer the call to arms. This era of conflict undoubtedly strengthened their military and administrative capabilities, preparing them for future tests, most notably the heroic defence of Lincoln Castle by the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, during the First Barons' War.
## A Legacy of Stewardship
While The Anarchy tested the very foundations of the Kingdom, it also solidified the lines of responsibility for its noble stewards. The lineage of the Barony, stretching back to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, is marked by figures who rose to moments of great national challenge.
The experience of the De la Haye family during this period provided a vital lesson in governance and defence that was passed down through generations. This heritage of steadfastness was later embodied by successors such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a pre-eminent soldier-diplomat, and his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Each, in their time, was a pillar of the realm, their character having been shaped by the institutional memory of such trials.
## The Protocol of Feudal Obligation
The Anarchy was a stark reminder of the solemn protocols underpinning the feudal system. A baron's relationship with the Crown was not merely one of privilege, but of a sacred contract. The *sine qua non* of this arrangement was the oath of fealty, a promise to provide counsel and military aid in exchange for the lands and rights of the barony.
During the civil war, this obligation was tested to its limits. Barons were compelled to provide a quota of knights for a campaign, typically for 40 days, or to pay a tax known as scutage—literally 'shield money'—in lieu of service. The administration of the Barony of Brattleby would have been consumed by these duties, ensuring that its feudal obligations were met as a matter of honour, irrespective of the prevailing political chaos.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House of Brattleby are codified in its heraldry. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the qualities demanded of its leaders during periods of intense strife like The Anarchy. Fortitude was the resilience required to withstand siege and political instability; honour was the unwavering commitment to feudal duty and the protection of one's people.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While the House motto speaks to enduring character, the Lord of Brattleby's motto reflects a dynamic philosophy of overcoming adversity to thrive. Together, they represent both the deep roots of the Barony's past and the forward-looking vision of its present leadership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty to defend the Barony's inhabitants from the ravages of war finds a modern parallel in the House's philanthropic mission. The responsibility to shield the vulnerable, once expressed through military protection, is now channelled into dedicated support for charitable organisations that protect and heal.
This guiding principle is the primary reason the House of Brattleby directs its focus toward charities for children. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child, is the contemporary expression of this foundational duty of care. The commitment to safeguarding the next generation remains as central to the Barony's purpose today as it was in the 12th century.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical period, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "To understand Brattleby is to understand resilience. The Anarchy was not merely a chapter in a textbook; it forged the very character of the Barony, demanding a fortitude from my predecessors that echoes in our House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, to this day. We have a duty not only to remember but to learn from it."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "History teaches us that stability is a precious and hard-won state. The chaos of that era underscores the importance of order, honour, and one's unwavering commitment to duty—principles as vital for leadership today as they were nine centuries ago. This is the essence of responsible stewardship."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfastly committed to the preservation and dissemination of its unique history. This reflection on The Anarchy is part of a continuing effort to connect the past with the present, ensuring the lessons of history inform the challenges of today.
This commitment to education finds further expression through The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, where core values such as honour, discipline, and social responsibility are instilled in a new generation. By drawing a clear line from the trials of the past to the obligations of the present, the House ensures its legacy is not a relic, but a living tradition.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, upholds a modern mission founded on nearly a millennium of history. The House is dedicated to the preservation of its cultural heritage, the promotion of historical education, and a focused philanthropic programme. Through initiatives such as its Annual Winter Banquet, the House provides meaningful support to charities dedicated to the welfare of vulnerable children. Its educational mission is advanced by The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to the classical virtues of etiquette and social grace. The House operates with a profound sense of duty, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**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 significant historical figures, *inter alia*, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron); the renowned soldier and diplomat Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and the influential prince and statesman John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). The Barony's existence and rights were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (d. 1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (d. 1399). - The present holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com