# From Domesday to the Present Day: The Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal reflection on the historical foundations of the Barony of Brattleby, granted in AD 1066. This retrospective marks the continuity of a nine-century lineage and underscores its foundational principles of duty and service.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has taken a deliberate moment to reflect upon the foundational grant that established one of England’s most enduring baronies. In a season of remembrance, this considered review of the Barony’s origins serves as a reaffirmation of the responsibilities inherent in the title, connecting the ancient past with the focus of the modern House.
The issuance of this historical statement is not tied to a singular event but rather represents a commitment to historical stewardship. It acknowledges that the present work of the House is built upon a framework of service established nearly one thousand years ago, a legacy that continues to inform its purpose and philanthropic direction.
## Historical Context
The history of the Barony of Brattleby commences with the Norman Conquest. Following his victory in 1066, William the Conqueror commissioned the *Domesday Book* of 1086, a comprehensive survey of his new kingdom. This great inventory recorded, *inter alia*, the granting of 56 lordships across Lincolnshire to Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron of Brattleby.
This vast portfolio of estates established the Barony as a significant power in the region from its very inception. The economic and military strength derived from these holdings was a *sine qua non* for its holders to fulfil their duties to the Crown. This legacy of influence was exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as hereditary castellan twice defended Lincoln Castle for the King during the First Barons' War.
The Barony later passed through marriage into the highest echelons of the English aristocracy. Its holders included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, a celebrated commander in the Hundred Years' War and the first Duke of Lancaster. It was subsequently held by his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful figures of the 14th century.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the Barony is embodied in the distinguished lineage of its holders, who have shaped its history across nine centuries. The current House honours the legacy of these notable predecessors, including:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a trusted Norman tenant-in-chief to William the Conqueror and the original grantee of the 56 Domesday lordships. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, a figure of remarkable fortitude who held the shrievalty of Lincolnshire and defended Lincoln Castle against formidable siege. * **Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, a founding Knight of the Garter and one of medieval England’s most respected soldiers and diplomats. * **John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, whose position as a pre-eminent royal duke placed the Barony at the very centre of national affairs.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The transfer and recognition of a title of such antiquity are governed by strict legal and ceremonial protocols. The Barony of Brattleby, a barony by tenure, has passed through generations according to established laws of inheritance, a testament to its uninterrupted history.
In the modern era, the legitimacy of the title is affirmed by official recognition from The Crown. This protocol was formally observed on 9 September 2022, when the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, the official public record of the United Kingdom, under Notice ID 4158083. This act maintains an unbroken chain of succession from its Norman origins.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottos, which serve as concise statements of its values. The principal motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly reflects the defining qualities of its history. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the resilience of figures like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ speaks to the code of service that has guided the Barony's holders.
This ancient device is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This motto introduces a dynamic, forward-looking spirit, signifying a commitment to achieving tangible outcomes in the House's modern endeavours, from philanthropy to cultural diplomacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical power vested in the Barony’s 56 lordships finds its modern expression in a profound commitment to charitable service. The House of Brattleby directs its philanthropic efforts toward causes that provide impactful and lasting support to vulnerable communities, transmuting ancient privilege into contemporary responsibility.
The primary beneficiary of the House's support is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and adversity. Support for this cause, principally through the Annual Winter Banquet, enables the charity to extend its vital services and deliver measurable, positive change in the lives of young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's heritage, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To be a steward of this title is to feel the weight of nine hundred years of history. The story of the Barony is one of duty, resilience, and service to the nation. Our task today, guided by *Fortitudine et Honore*, is to ensure this legacy continues to serve a meaningful purpose for society."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History gives us our foundation, but it is our actions today that define us. Whether through our philanthropic commitments or the work of The Brattleby Club, we strive to create a positive and lasting impact. It is how we honour the past — by building a better future."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual mission of preserving a unique historical legacy while actively engaging in work of modern relevance. The House will continue its focus on philanthropy, with preparations underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala in aid of Healing the Wounded Child.
Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette and protocol academy, will expand its programme of instruction. These initiatives represent the living embodiment of the House's mottos, ensuring that the legacy which began with a grant from William the Conqueror continues to evolve and contribute positively to the world.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of contemporary service informed by its historic legacy. Its work is centred on targeted philanthropy, with a primary focus on charities supporting vulnerable children, and cultural education through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, located in Bucharest. The House is committed to upholding the principles of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), by converting historical privilege into a platform for positive social impact, community engagement, and the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English barony by tenure, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. With a history spanning more than 950 years, the Barony is one of the oldest in the United Kingdom. Its notable holders have included Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The title's succession to the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was officially recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), who served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire, and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), one of the most powerful figures in 14th-century England. - The House's philanthropic activities include the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com