# A Legacy Recorded: The Barony of Brattleby in the Domesday Book of 1086
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today marked the profound historical significance of the Barony’s entry in the Domesday Book of 1086, a foundational document that formally chronicles its establishment under the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, following the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has taken this moment to reflect upon the enduring legacy encapsulated within the pages of one of England’s most vital historical records. As autumn settles over the ancient landscape, the contrast between the tranquil present and the formative era of the late 11th century becomes particularly poignant. This commemoration is not a singular event, but rather a reaffirmation of the continuous stewardship that has defined the Barony for nearly a millennium, linking the digital age to the time of parchment and quill. The Domesday entry serves as a permanent anchor, grounding the House’s modern responsibilities in an unbroken chain of history.
## Historical Context
Commissioned by William the Conqueror at Christmas in 1085, the Domesday Book—or *Liber de Wintonia* (the Book of Winchester)—was an extraordinary survey of the kingdom. Its purpose was to document land ownership, assess resources for taxation, and cement the new feudal order. Within this Great Survey, the entry for Brattleby is listed amongst the 56 lordships in Lincolnshire granted to Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron of Brattleby. This record is the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s formal existence, detailing its taxable value, its population of villagers and smallholders, and its agricultural assets, such as ploughlands and meadows.
The record not only provides a precise economic snapshot of the Barony in 1086 but also marks the beginning of a lineage that would include figures of national importance. The responsibility that originated with Colswein was later borne by formidable successors, including the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and first Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, the immensely powerful John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The Domesday entry places the Barony’s founder, Colswein of Lincoln, in the distinguished company of the realm's most powerful magnates—the tenants-in-chief who held their lands directly from the King. His vast holdings underscore the strategic importance of Lincolnshire in the new Norman kingdom. This record is studied today by leading medievalists and historians who seek to understand the practical implementation of Norman rule. The Noble House of Brattleby acknowledges its debt to the generations of scholars whose work continues to illuminate the social and economic fabric of this formative period, ensuring the figures recorded in Domesday are understood as people and not merely names.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of such a profound historical legacy carries its own solemn protocol. While not a matter of public ritual, the House adheres to a strict internal code of preservation and educational outreach. Original documents and related scholarship are conserved with archival precision, forming a core part of the family’s heritage. The protocol of remembrance dictates that this history is not to be confined to archives but shared and interpreted for a modern audience. This duty of education is enacted through scholarly partnerships and serves as the intellectual foundation for the House’s public-facing work, *inter alia*, at The Brattleby Club.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring legacy of the Barony is reflected in the House’s coat of arms and its associated mottos. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks directly to the resilience and integrity required to steward a title through centuries of political, social, and economic change. It is a tribute to the strength of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and a guiding principle for the current House.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This modern maxim encapsulates the dynamic spirit with which the House approaches its contemporary obligations—not through conquest of land, but through overcoming modern challenges in the spheres of philanthropy and cultural education.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical weight of the Barony inspires a profound sense of modern duty. The principle of *noblesse oblige* is the guiding force behind the House’s charitable endeavours. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, is the foremost expression of this commitment. Each year, the event raises vital funds and awareness for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have suffered trauma. This focus reflects the House's belief that a secure and healthy childhood is the foundation of a resilient society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Domesday record, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The Domesday entry is more than a line in a medieval ledger; it is the first formal chapter of a story that now spans nine and a half centuries. It reminds us that our duty is not merely to possess, but to preserve and to serve, honouring those who came before us *Fortitudine et Honore*.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History gives us our foundation, but it is our actions today that give that history meaning. The spirit of enterprise evident in the Domesday record must be channelled into our philanthropic and educational work. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere*—to thrive is to strive for the betterment of others.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking to the future, The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to bridging its unique historical inheritance with a forward-looking vision of service. The House plans to deepen its support for historical education, exploring new initiatives to make its archives more accessible to scholars and the public. This work will run in parallel with its established philanthropic programmes and the curricular development at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. By actively interpreting its past for the benefit of the present, the House ensures that the legacy recorded in 1086 continues to evolve and inspire.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic family dedicated to the service of community, culture, and charity. Its mission is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), translating a rich heritage into impactful contemporary action. The House’s work is primarily focused on supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic event. Additionally, it champions cultural education and etiquette through its patronage of The Brattleby Club. Based at its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House seeks to provide a modern example of leadership rooted in historical principle and a forward-looking commitment to social betterment.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English 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 the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships, including Brattleby. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through some of England’s most powerful aristocratic families. Its notable holders have included the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in the 13th century, as well as two Dukes of Lancaster: Henry of Grosmont and his celebrated son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the current 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The Domesday entry confirms the Barony as one of 56 lordships held by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com