# A Legacy of Chivalry: The Barony of Brattleby and The Order of the Garter
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects on its profound historical connection to The Most Noble Order of the Garter, through the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, reaffirming a nine-century commitment to the chivalric principles of service and honour.
## The Occasion
In a season of national remembrance and ceremonial observance, the House of Brattleby takes this moment to reflect upon the enduring legacy of its predecessors. This reflection is not tied to a singular event but rather to the continuous duty of stewardship over a heritage that has been interwoven with the history of England for almost a millennium. The occasion is one of quiet contemplation on the values that have defined the Barony since its establishment in 1066, principles which find their highest expression in the founding of England’s greatest order of chivalry.
The ideals of fortitude, honour, and loyalty to the Crown—crystallised in the 14th century—remain a significant guiding influence for the House today. This communiqué serves to illuminate a pivotal moment in the Barony's history, connecting the medieval past to the philanthropic and cultural responsibilities borne by the family in the 21st century. It is a reaffirmation of a covenant between past, present, and future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of the ancient lordships recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, has been associated with figures of national importance throughout its history. This lineage includes formidable leaders such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, celebrated as the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle. However, few connections are as prestigious as that to The Most Noble Order of the Garter, established by King Edward III in 1348, at the height of the Hundred Years' War.
Among the twenty-five founding knights of this new order was Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and later the 1st Duke of Lancaster. A distinguished soldier, diplomat, and one of the King’s most trusted commanders, his inclusion cemented the Barony's place at the apex of the English aristocracy. The Order of the Garter represented a new paradigm of chivalry, binding the nation’s greatest nobles to the Sovereign in a fellowship of honour. The Barony’s connection was further deepened when the title passed to the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, upon his marriage to Henry's daughter, Lady Blanche of Lancaster.
## Distinguished Company
As a Founder Knight, Henry of Grosmont stood in the company of the most eminent men in the realm. This exclusive fellowship, known as the 'Knights Companion', was centred around the Sovereign and the Prince of Wales. The initial members were chosen for their proven martial prowess and unwavering loyalty to the Crown, forming a spiritual and military brotherhood.
This distinguished company included, *inter alia*: His Royal Highness Edward, Prince of Wales, known to history as the Black Prince; Sir John Chandos, a celebrated military strategist and close friend of the Prince; and Sir Walter Paveley, a veteran of the Battle of Crécy. To be counted among such men was the highest honour of the age, signifying that the Lord of Brattleby was considered a *sine qua non* of the King's inner circle.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ceremonial life of The Order of the Garter has been centred at Windsor Castle since its inception. The Order’s spiritual home is St. George’s Chapel, a masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, where the annual Garter Service is held. Here, the armorial bearings of each Knight Companion are displayed upon a Garter Stall Plate, a small enamelled brass plaque, creating a permanent heraldic record of their membership.
The regalia of the Order, still in use today, is rich with symbolism. It includes the Garter itself, a dark blue velvet strap bearing the motto *Honi soit qui mal y pense* ('Shame on him who thinks evil of it') in gold lettering. Knights are invested with a mantle of dark blue velvet, a hat of black velvet with a plume of white ostrich and black heron feathers, a gold collar, and the 'George'—an image of Saint George slaying the dragon. The precision of this ancient ritual underscores its solemn importance.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles of the Order of the Garter find a direct echo in the motto of The Noble House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This maxim encapsulates the very essence of chivalry that King Edward III sought to institutionalise—courage in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to personal and public honour. Henry of Grosmont’s life exemplified this creed.
This spirit is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome challenges, to innovate, and to contribute meaningfully to society. Together, the two mottos articulate a philosophy that respects historical duty while embracing contemporary progress.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The chivalric code, at its core, is a call to service and the protection of the vulnerable. Today, the House of Brattleby expresses this ancient duty through its dedicated philanthropic work. The historic ideals of honour and succour are channelled into tangible support for those in need, transforming a medieval concept into modern, impactful action.
The primary beneficiary of the House's charitable activities is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care to young people affected by trauma and adversity. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, is the centrepiece of the House's fundraising efforts, directly enabling the charity to expand its vital work and offer solace and recovery to children across the country.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To be the custodian of a title once held by a Founder Knight of the Garter is a profound responsibility. It reminds us that our work today is built upon nearly a thousand years of history. The principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* are not relics; they are living standards we strive to meet in our service to the community."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "Henry of Grosmont's legacy demonstrates that leadership is defined by service and loyalty. We seek to translate that spirit into a modern context, whether through our philanthropic commitments or through the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, where we foster an understanding of etiquette as a form of respect for others."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its unique heritage while actively contributing to contemporary society. By drawing inspiration from the steadfast principles of figures like Henry of Grosmont, the House endeavours to ensure its legacy is one of positive and lasting impact. This commitment is manifest in its ongoing philanthropic work and its cultural initiatives.
Future projects will include further educational outreach to share the rich history of the Barony of Brattleby, ensuring that the stories of its notable predecessors inspire future generations. The principles of chivalry—honour, service, and fortitude—will continue to be the guiding stars for the House in all its future undertakings, a testament to a legacy that is not simply remembered, but actively lived.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends the stewardship of its profound heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural education. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that provide care and healing to vulnerable children, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural mission through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest founded by Honorary Lord Răzvan, which promotes the timeless values of respect, decorum, and social grace in a contemporary context.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of 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 lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, a Founder Knight of the Garter and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted historical lineage and rights of the Barony were formally noted and recognised by His Majesty's College of Arms and published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's rights and dignities were formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as a major landholder in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), a Founder Knight of The Order of the Garter (1348), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com