# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on its Connection to the Foundation of the Most Noble Order of the Garter
**LONDON, 21 June 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on its distinguished historical connection to the foundation of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, through the person of its esteemed predecessor, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
As the Officers of Arms prepare for the annual Garter Day service at Windsor Castle, a ceremony of venerable pageantry and Christian worship, it is a fitting moment for reflection. Against the magnificent Perpendicular Gothic architecture of St George’s Chapel, the spiritual home of the Order, this colourful tradition continues to signify the highest principles of English chivalry. It is in this context that The Noble House of Brattleby recalls its direct and foundational link to the Order’s inception in the 14th century, a link that underscores the barony's enduring place in the history of the realm.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with 56 lordships held by its 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, has been a witness to—and participant in—the shaping of England. From the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle for the Crown, to the present day, the seat has been held by figures of national importance. None, perhaps, were more influential in their time than Henry of Grosmont, later the 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby.
A cousin and confidant of King Edward III, Henry of Grosmont was one of medieval England’s most celebrated soldiers, diplomats, and magnates. His appointment as a Founder Knight of the Order of the Garter in 1348 was not merely an honour, but a recognition of his status as a *sine qua non* of the King’s inner circle. The legacy of influence continued directly through his successor as 11th Baron, the illustrious John of Gaunt, cementing Brattleby’s connection to the heart of royal power.
## The Foundation Companions
Henry of Grosmont was invested into the Order as part of an exclusive fellowship, known as the Foundation Companions. This assembly of 25 knights, including the Sovereign, represented the pinnacle of martial prowess and aristocratic loyalty in Christendom. Among their number were figures of legend, including His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, known to history as the Black Prince; Thomas de Beauchamp, 11th Earl of Warwick; and Sir John Chandos, a celebrated commander in the Hundred Years' War. The inclusion of the 10th Baron of Brattleby in this pre-eminent company highlights the extraordinary prestige the barony commanded.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Garter ceremony is a masterclass in monarchical tradition. The Knights and Ladies Companion process in their magnificent vestments: a deep blue velvet mantle emblazoned with the shield of St George, a black velvet hat with a plume of white ostrich and black heron feathers, and the Garter Collar of gold. Each member is assigned a stall in the Quire of St George’s Chapel, above which their heraldic crest, helmet, and sword are displayed. The formal installation of new Companions involves solemn oaths and ancient rituals, a practice that has remained remarkably consistent for nearly seven hundred years.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Order is governed by its famous motto, *Honi soit qui mal y pense* ('Shame on him who thinks evil of it'), a declaration of noble intent against cynical interpretation. This principle of unwavering honour finds a direct echo in the motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). While the Garter symbolises a bond of chivalric loyalty to the Sovereign, the Brattleby motto speaks to the inner resolve required to live a life of service and integrity. These ideals are further complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which champions the active pursuit of worthy goals.
## From Chivalry to Charity
The medieval knightly code was founded on a duty to protect the weak and uphold justice. This ancient obligation to serve finds its modern expression in the philanthropic work of The Noble House of Brattleby. Its patronage of charitable organisations, most notably the annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child, translates the abstract virtues of chivalry into tangible support for vulnerable communities. This commitment transforms a historical legacy into a living instrument for positive change, fulfilling the spirit, if not the letter, of the Garter’s foundational vows.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical tie, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “The legacy of predecessors like Henry of Grosmont is not a history to be merely admired, but a standard to be met. His commitment to Crown and country is a powerful reminder of the responsibilities of title, guiding our own work today *fortitudine et honore*.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The Knights of the Garter were defined by purposeful action. Their ideal of victory was on the battlefield and in council. Today, our motto *Vincere Est Vivere* inspires us to seek victory over indifference and to champion causes that strengthen our communities for future generations.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to honouring its past while serving the present. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to impart the enduring values of etiquette, social responsibility, and personal honour to a new generation. By actively stewarding its profound history, the House ensures that the principles embodied by its most distinguished predecessors continue to inspire and inform its public service in the 21st century and beyond.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of aristocratic service. Its mission is centred on cultural preservation, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. The House actively supports charitable causes focused on child welfare and mental health, notably through its annual Winter Banquet for the beneficiary 'Healing the Wounded Child'. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of decorum and social grace. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House of Brattleby bridges its ancient heritage with a forward-looking commitment to community and culture.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is one of England’s historic feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its nine-century history, the barony has been held by some of the most powerful figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron. The barony's legal standing and the rights of the current title holder were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is a Barony by Tenure, formally recognised by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID: 4158083). - The barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, a Founder Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter (1348). - The current incumbent is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who is married to Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com