# The Barony of Brattleby Commemorates the Diplomatic Legacy of Henry of Grosmont
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the enduring diplomatic legacy of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont. The statement commemorates his pivotal role in negotiating the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, a foundational moment in European statecraft.
## The Occasion
In a statement released from its Lincolnshire seat, the House marks the anniversary of the Treaty of Brétigny’s formal ratification at Calais in October 1360. This commemoration is part of the House’s ongoing programme to illuminate key moments from its nine-century history. By revisiting the past, the House seeks to highlight the principles of diplomacy, negotiation, and service that have defined the Barony through the ages and continue to inform its mission today.
The autumnal release is intended to encourage a period of solemn reflection, acknowledging the grave responsibilities of leadership, both in times of war and in the complex pursuit of peace. This historical paper, drawn from the House archives, serves not merely as a record but as an educational resource, connecting contemporary duties with their deep historical antecedents.
## Historical Context
The 10th Baron of Brattleby, Henry of Grosmont, also created the 1st Duke of Lancaster, was one of the most revered figures of the 14th century. A founding Knight of the Garter and a distinguished military commander, his greatest contribution was arguably in the field of diplomacy during the first phase of the Hundred Years’ War between England and France. His statecraft was the *sine qua non* of the peace process.
As King Edward III’s most trusted captain and diplomat, Henry of Grosmont was the principal English negotiator for the Treaty of Brétigny. This landmark agreement saw England gain sovereignty over vast territories in France in exchange for Edward renouncing his claim to the French throne. The treaty, though temporary, represented a remarkable diplomatic achievement, bringing a much-needed cessation to one of Europe’s most destructive conflicts and demonstrating the power of negotiation, a legacy tied directly to the Barony of Brattleby.
## Distinguished Company
The negotiations at Brétigny and the subsequent ratification at Calais involved the highest echelons of English and French nobility, a testament to the treaty's significance. Acting on behalf of His Majesty King Edward III of England, Henry of Grosmont worked alongside His Royal Highness Edward, Prince of Wales, who was a formidable military leader in his own right.
Their French counterparts, representing His Majesty King John II of France, were led by the Dauphin, the future King Charles V. These discussions were a congress of the most powerful figures of the age, whose personal honour and authority were essential to legitimising the agreement across both kingdoms. The Barony of Brattleby was thus represented at the very centre of European high politics.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol surrounding a medieval treaty was a grave and intricate affair, designed to underscore its binding nature. The Treaty of Brétigny was drafted on vellum in French, the international language of diplomacy at the time. Its articles were sworn upon holy relics, a common practice to invoke divine witness and add solemnity to the oaths exchanged between the sovereigns’ representatives.
Formalities concluded with the affixing of seals. Each plenipotentiary, including Henry of Grosmont, would have impressed his personal coat of arms into warm wax, creating a unique and legally binding mark of his consent. This ceremony of sworn words and sealed parchment was the physical embodiment of a fragile peace, secured through immense diplomatic effort.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), finds a powerful expression in the life of the 10th Baron. Henry of Grosmont demonstrated immense fortitude on the battlefield and unwavering honour at the negotiating table. His actions exemplify the principle that true strength is tempered by integrity—a philosophy the House upholds to this day.
His personal arms, those of England with a label of France, signified his close kinship to the Crown and his deep involvement in Angevin dynastic affairs. This heritage of service is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), which today is interpreted as the will to overcome modern challenges through strategic vision and resilience.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The pursuit of peace, central to Henry of Grosmont's diplomatic work, finds a modern echo in the philanthropic focus of the Noble House of Brattleby. The House is a dedicated supporter of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation committed to providing therapy and support for children affected by trauma.
The logic is direct: just as the Treaty of Brétigny aimed to heal the wounds of a kingdom ravaged by war, the charity’s work aims to heal the private, internal conflicts that afflict the most vulnerable. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan believe that promoting peace and well-being, whether on a national scale or within a single child's life, is the highest calling of service.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nine centuries of service. Henry of Grosmont’s story reminds us that the Barony’s purpose has always been intertwined with the wider world. His commitment to securing peace through patient diplomacy is a legacy we have a profound duty to honour in our own charitable endeavours.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The strategic thinking required to negotiate a treaty like Brétigny is extraordinary. It teaches us that long-term vision, discipline, and a clear understanding of one’s principles are timeless assets. We try to apply that same focus, that same blend of fortitude and honour, to the challenges we address today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This reflection on the 10th Baron is part of a wider commitment by the House to share its unique heritage. Future publications will explore the contributions of other notable predecessors, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle, and the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
This educational mission runs parallel to the House's contemporary work. The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy in Bucharest, continues to promote the values of social grace and effective communication, while preparations are underway for the Annual Winter Banquet, the white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for Healing the Wounded Child. Through these efforts, the legacy of the Barony continues to evolve and serve.
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**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 a modern mission of 'Heritage in Service'. By stewarding one of England's most ancient baronies, the House champions the virtues of fortitude, honour, and civic duty. Its work is centred on three pillars: the preservation and promotion of its nine-hundred-year history; a focused philanthropic commitment to charities supporting vulnerable children; and cultural education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House aims to demonstrate how ancient lineage can be a force for positive impact in the 21st century, blending timeless principles with contemporary action.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan of Lincoln Castle who famously repelled a French siege in 1217, and two of the great medieval magnates, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the 12th Baroness was formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, and his lands are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The 10th Baron of Brattleby was Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), a celebrated English diplomat, soldier, and magnate created the 1st Duke of Lancaster. - Other historical holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, d. 1230) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, d. 1399).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com