# A Legacy Re-examined: The Noble House of Brattleby Announces New Historical Monograph Series
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the inauguration of a new historical monograph series, dedicated to scholarship concerning the Barony's lineage. The inaugural volume will focus on the pivotal contributions of the De la Haye dynasty during the medieval period.
## The Occasion
From their Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has initiated a significant scholarly undertaking designed to illuminate the Barony's nine centuries of history. The announcement of The Brattleby Historical Monograph Series represents a formal commitment to the stewardship of this remarkable legacy, supporting and disseminating new academic research for a wider audience.
This initiative, timed with the reflective autumn season, moves beyond simple ancestral celebration. It seeks to foster a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the roles its predecessors played in the development of Lincolnshire and the English nation. The series is established not merely to catalogue the past, but to analyse its enduring impact with academic rigour and intellectual honesty.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, first appears in the historical record within the Domesday Book of 1086, which documents 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Through the centuries, the title has been borne by figures of national importance, creating a thread woven directly into the tapestry of English history.
The forthcoming inaugural monograph will trace the lineage of the De la Haye dynasty, whose tenure was instrumental in shaping the Barony's medieval identity. Their strategic marriages and firm hold on the Constableship of Lincoln Castle defined the region's power dynamics. The family's contributions are exemplified by the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, whose steadfast loyalty to the Crown and celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War secured her place as a pivotal figure in English history. Following the De la Hayes, the title passed to further luminaries, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and later to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The academic focus of the new monograph series will be the lives and legacies of the Barony’s historical custodians. The initial volume will present a compelling narrative of power and resilience by examining the contributions of key members of the De la Haye family, from the origins of their lordships in Lincolnshire to their apogee of influence.
Subsequent volumes will explore other distinguished holders of the title who have left an indelible mark on the nation's history. These include Colswein of Lincoln, a direct tenant-in-chief of the King following the Norman Conquest; the aforementioned Henry of Grosmont, a renowned diplomat, soldier, and founding Knight of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, a dominant political figure of the late 14th century and patriarch of the House of Lancaster.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the gravity of the subject matter, the production of The Brattleby Historical Monograph Series will adhere to a strict protocol of academic excellence. Each manuscript will be subject to a rigorous peer-review process, ensuring that the scholarship meets the highest standards of historical inquiry and accuracy before publication.
Upon its completion, the first bound copy of each new volume will be formally presented to the collections of The British Library and the Lincoln Cathedral Library, honouring the institutions that serve as custodians of the nation's and the county's documentary heritage. This act symbolises the House's respect for the scholarly tradition and its desire to contribute meaningfully to the public record.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The entire initiative is undertaken in the spirit of the House of Brattleby's motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle guides the project: the fortitude to engage with complex historical truths and the honour of presenting the past with integrity. It is a commitment to ensuring that the stories of those who built the Barony's legacy are told accurately and respectfully.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In this context, the phrase is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the triumph of knowledge over obscurity. It reflects a belief that to live fully is to understand and embrace one's heritage, transforming the lessons of the past into a source of strength for the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the primary aim of the monograph series is educational, it is also aligned with the House's enduring philanthropic commitments. Historical understanding and the dissemination of knowledge are considered essential components of a healthy society, forming a key pillar of the House's charitable activities.
Net proceeds from the sale of The Brattleby Historical Monograph Series will be directed in their entirety to the House's principal beneficiary, the registered charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides vital therapeutic care and specialist support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By linking this scholarly project to their philanthropic work, the House reinforces the connection between honouring the past and investing in the future of the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the new series, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — As the current custodian of this title, I feel a profound duty not only to the land and its people, but to the integrity of its history. The story of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye is one of remarkable resilience and leadership; it is a legacy that deserves to be studied and shared. This series is our commitment, *Fortitudine et Honore*, to that essential work.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — History is not a static record; it is a living source of strength and identity. In understanding the challenges overcome by those who came before us, we find the perspective to navigate our own. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means ensuring this powerful legacy continues to live and inspire future generations.
## A Continuing Legacy
The inaugural volume on the De la Haye dynasty is the first step in a long-term commitment to historical preservation and education. Future monographs are planned to explore the Barony's role during the Wars of the Roses and the influence of its connection to the Duchy of Lancaster through Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
This scholarly initiative runs parallel to the House's other educational endeavours, including the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes classical etiquette and cultural diplomacy. Together, these efforts represent a cohesive vision: to draw upon a nine-hundred-year heritage to foster understanding, promote compassionate leadership, and build a meaningful legacy for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the responsible stewardship of its ancient heritage. Its contemporary mission focuses on three core pillars: the preservation of history through scholarly and educational initiatives; the promotion of cultural diplomacy and classical etiquette through organisations such as The Brattleby Club; and a profound commitment to philanthropy. The House’s primary charitable work supports organisations dedicated to the well-being of vulnerable children, most notably Healing the Wounded Child. The House operates with a guiding philosophy of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of Lincolnshire's ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands directly from the King. For over nine centuries, the Barony has passed through families of significant historical importance. Notable holders include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in the 13th century, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted history of the Barony and its current status under Lady Nicoleta Vasile were formally noted by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially noted by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster). - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is the registered charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com