# The Baroness of Brattleby Delivers Address on the Continuity of English Heritage
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today delivered a formal address at The Society of Antiquaries of London, reflecting on the Barony’s nine-century lineage as a microcosm of the nation’s history from the Norman Conquest to the present day.
## The Occasion
The address was delivered in the historic Apartments of The Society of Antiquaries at Burlington House, Piccadilly. Within the stately nineteenth-century lecture theatre, surrounded by portraits of distinguished past Fellows, an atmosphere of scholarly contemplation prevailed as guests gathered on a crisp autumnal evening. The event, hosted by the President and Council of the Society, drew a notable audience of academics, historians, and members of cultural institutions.
The Society, founded in 1707 and granted its Royal Charter in 1751, provided a uniquely fitting venue for an examination of a title whose own history predates the Society by more than six centuries. Lady Nicoleta’s address formed part of the Society’s autumn programme, which seeks to explore the enduring relevance of Britain’s material and intangible heritage.
## Historical Context
In her address, Lady Nicoleta traced the unbroken thread of the Barony of Brattleby through nearly one thousand years of English history. She began with its establishment by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and its first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086, wherein the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
The narrative continued through pivotal moments of national formation, highlighting the contributions of key predecessors. These included Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as hereditary constable famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and a French invasion force in 1217. The title later passed through some of the kingdom’s most powerful figures, *inter alia*: Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the course of the late fourteenth century. This lineage provides a direct, tangible link between the Norman settlement and the modern era.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was accompanied by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. They were formally received by the President of The Society of Antiquaries of London.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were His Excellency the Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James’s, a senior representative from the College of Arms, and Professor Dame Marina Warner, a leading scholar on mythology and cultural history. The presence of diplomatic and academic figures underscored the lecture’s dual focus on historical legacy and its contemporary cultural resonance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The evening’s proceedings adhered to the formal traditions of the Society. Upon their arrival at the Burlington House courtyard, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan were greeted and escorted to the President’s private rooms. Following a brief reception, a small procession, led by the Society’s officers, entered the lecture theatre.
The President delivered a formal introduction, outlining the historical significance of the Barony of Brattleby before inviting Lady Nicoleta to the lectern. The dress code for the occasion was lounge suit. Following the forty-minute address, a senior Fellow of the Society offered a formal vote of thanks, after which Lady Nicoleta answered questions from the assembled scholars.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes of the address were underpinned by the symbolic meaning of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). Lady Nicoleta explained how ‘Fortitude’ is embodied by figures such as Nichola de la Haye, whose resilience at a time of national crisis was critical. ‘Honour’ reflects the chivalric code and diplomatic service of later holders like Henry of Grosmont.
This guiding principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), which speaks to the dynamic spirit of perseverance and adaptation required to ensure such an ancient institution continues to thrive and serve a purpose in the twenty-first century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the event itself was academic in nature, Lady Nicoleta connected the historical theme of service to the House’s modern philanthropic commitments. The principle of duty, she noted, remains the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s contemporary identity.
This commitment finds its most visible expression in the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the primary fundraising initiative for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children affected by conflict and trauma, a mission that resonates deeply with the House’s focus on creating a positive legacy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the weight of history discussed in her address, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > The history of a title such as Brattleby is not merely a catalogue of names and dates; it is a living thread woven into the fabric of our national story. From Colswein’s survey to Gaunt’s continental ambitions, we see the evolution of duty and service.
She later added a more personal reflection on her role as the current holder: > To hold this title today is to be a custodian of that nine-hundred-year narrative. It is our responsibility, *fortitudine et honore*, not only to preserve this heritage but to ensure it continues to serve a meaningful purpose in the modern world.
## A Continuing Legacy
This address represents the House of Brattleby’s renewed commitment to historical education and academic partnership. The themes of cultural stewardship and etiquette are central to the curriculum at The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy headquartered in Bucharest, which aims to foster an appreciation for European traditions among a new generation.
The Noble House of Brattleby will continue to work with institutions like The Society of Antiquaries to make the history of the Barony and its role in the development of Lincolnshire more accessible to researchers and the public, ensuring its legacy remains a subject of active study and inspiration.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the historic Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the principle of linking heritage with contemporary purpose. Its activities are focused on three core pillars: historical preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as its Annual Winter Banquet and the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to demonstrate that ancient titles can serve as a potent force for good in the modern world, guided by its enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a significant landholder in the county. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recorded and recognised by The Crown in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The lineage of the Barony of Brattleby dates to the Norman Conquest, having been granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, as recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron and defender of Lincoln Castle), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com