# A Statement on the Foundation of the Barony and the Legacy of Colswein of Lincoln
**LONDON, 25 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement from its seat in Lincolnshire to mark the foundational history of the Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, and to honour the enduring legacy of its first holder.
## The Occasion
In the quiet autumnal landscape of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken a moment for historical reflection. This communication serves not to mark a new event, but to commemorate the ancient origins of the Barony, a title woven into the fabric of England for nearly one thousand years. The statement is issued from Brattleby itself, a village whose name and fate have been intrinsically linked with the Barony since its inception.
The occasion is one of solemn remembrance and renewed commitment, reflecting a core belief within the House that a keen understanding of the past is the *sine qua non* for responsible stewardship in the present. It is a deliberate pause to acknowledge the long chain of duty that began in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest and continues to this day under the 12th Baroness.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was established as a direct consequence of the Norman Conquest of 1066. Following his victory at Hastings, William the Conqueror moved to consolidate his new kingdom by granting land and titles to his most trusted followers. Among these loyal men was Colswein of Lincoln, a key administrator whose fealty was rewarded with immense lordships across the strategically vital county of Lincolnshire.
This grant, later recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, conferred upon Colswein a total of 56 lordships, establishing him as a pre-eminent magnate in the region. The Barony of Brattleby thus became a formidable power base, anchoring Norman authority in a part of England known for its independent character. This foundational act was more than a reward; it was a calculated instrument of statecraft, ensuring the stability of the Crown's dominion through a network of powerful, indebted barons.
## A Line of Unbroken Stewardship
From Colswein of Lincoln, the stewardship of the Barony passed through some of the most consequential figures in English history. The title’s continuity through periods of civil war, plague, and dynastic change is a testament to its resilience. Each holder left an indelible mark, contributing to a legacy defined by service to the Crown and country.
Notable predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. The Barony later passed to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, created the first Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter. It was then held by his son-in-law, the illustrious John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the course of the late 14th century. This distinguished lineage is now carried forward by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The transfer and recognition of a title of such antiquity are governed by strict legal and ceremonial protocol. In its earliest form, the Barony's existence was affirmed by the King's writ and its inclusion in the great survey of the Domesday Book, a public declaration of ownership and obligation. This established a precedent of official, verifiable recognition that continues into the modern era.
Today, such matters are formally recorded for the public record in The London Gazette, the official journal of the Crown. The continuity of the Barony of Brattleby into the 21st century was formally acknowledged by this historic publication, affirming its place within the established order of the United Kingdom. This modern protocol serves the same fundamental purpose as its 11th-century antecedent: to provide clear, indisputable evidence of a title's legitimacy and the responsibilities an incumbent inherits.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of The Noble House of Brattleby are underpinned by powerful symbolism, most clearly expressed in its mottos. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a guiding principle for the family's conduct. 'Fortitude' evokes the resilience of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, while 'Honour' reflects the chivalric code embodied by figures like Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as a commitment to overcoming challenges, driving progress in philanthropic endeavours, and succeeding in the service of the community. Together, the mottos create a philosophy that respects the past while embracing the demands of the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of stewardship that began with Colswein’s governance over his lands now finds its modern expression in the philanthropic work of the House. The historical responsibility for the welfare of tenants and communities has evolved into a broader commitment to charitable service, focusing on nurturing the potential of future generations.
This commitment is exemplified by the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the cornerstone of the House's charitable calendar. The principal beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and support to children who have experienced trauma and adversity. The choice of this beneficiary is deliberate, reflecting the belief that fortifying the well-being of the youngest members of society is the most profound investment a community can make.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's long history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "To be a custodian of this title is to feel the weight and wisdom of nine centuries. One is acutely aware of following in the footsteps of people who shaped our national story. Our duty is not simply to preserve this heritage, but to live by its guiding principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* in our service today." — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "History provides the lessons; our task is to apply them with purpose. The story of Brattleby is one of resilience and adaptation. We draw inspiration from that to fuel our own commitments, ensuring this ancient House makes a meaningful and positive contribution to the modern world." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy of service continues for generations to come. The heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history he will one day inherit and the duties that accompany it. His education emphasises the principles of honour, responsibility, and public service that have defined the Barony for centuries.
The House is also extending its values beyond the United Kingdom. The establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest is a testament to this forward-looking vision. As an academy of modern etiquette and protocol, the Club promotes cross-cultural understanding and the timeless virtues of civility and grace, embodying the House's mission to build bridges and foster excellence on an international stage.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a dual mission: preserving its unique nine-century heritage and pursuing an active programme of modern philanthropy. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions causes related to youth well-being, cultural preservation, and education. Through initiatives such as the annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to translate its historical legacy into tangible, positive impact for contemporary society, both within the United Kingdom and abroad.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title, granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant Norman landholder whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by pivotal figures in English history, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. As one of the few titles established in the immediate aftermath of the Conquest, it represents a direct link to the foundations of the modern British state. Its formal status is acknowledged in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors**
- The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - The modern recognition of the Barony is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, c. 1160–1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, 1340–1399).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com