# The Noble House of Brattleby Reflects on a Legacy of National Service and Statecraft
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement reflecting on the Barony's profound historical contributions to the governance of England, underscoring its commitment to translating this nine-century legacy of statecraft into modern public service and philanthropic duty.
## The Occasion
In the quiet autumnal setting of its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has concluded a period of intensive archival research into the Barony’s historical relationship with the Crown. This communiqué marks the culmination of that work, offering a considered reflection on the duties and influence wielded by its predecessors. It serves not as a chronicle of past glories, but as a foundational text reinforcing the principles that guide the House’s contemporary mission.
The statement is intended to illuminate the unbroken thread of responsibility that connects the Barony’s medieval origins to its modern-day revival. It is an affirmation of the principle that historical significance is not a static inheritance but an active charge—a *sine qua non* for its continued relevance and service in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, from its establishment in the 11th century, was inextricably linked with the machinery of the state. This is powerfully illustrated by the union of the 8th Baroness, Margaret de Longespée, and her consort, Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln. A formidable statesman and a trusted advisor to King Edward I, the Earl’s political acumen ensured the Barony’s influence was felt in the highest councils, from commanding armies at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298 to officiating at royal coronations.
This tradition of service at the heart of national life was a defining feature of the Barony’s identity long before its 1399 merger with the Crown through John of Gaunt’s heir, King Henry IV. The lineage includes peerless examples of fortitude, most notably Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron of Brattleby *de jure uxoris*, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle intrepidly defended the city for the King against rebel barons and French forces in 1217.
Later holders, such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, were among the most powerful nobles in the realm and a founding Knight of the Order of the Garter. This direct involvement in shaping the nation speaks to a heritage of duty that the present House seeks to honour and reimagine.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The historical actions of the Barony’s holders find their echo in the House’s heraldic traditions. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a direct tribute to the courage of figures like Nichola de la Haye and the profound integrity of statesmen such as Henry of Grosmont. It encapsulates the twin virtues of resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to principled conduct.
This ancient motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic, forward-looking spirit of the modern House, interpreting the concept of 'conquest' not as a military endeavour, but as the will to overcome contemporary challenges through education, social enterprise, and dedicated philanthropy. Together, the mottos symbolise a bridge between a storied past and a purposeful future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Today, the solemn duty of service once rendered to the Crown is purposefully channelled into service to the community. The Noble House of Brattleby has dedicated its principal philanthropic efforts to supporting organisations that effect meaningful and lasting social change. The selection of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet reflects this commitment.
The charity's mission—to provide specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and abuse—aligns with the House’s belief in addressing fundamental societal challenges with fortitude and compassion. It is a modern interpretation of the historic duty of a noble house: to protect the vulnerable and strengthen the fabric of society for the next generation. This focus is a contemporary expression of the Barony's enduring principle of stewardship.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this heritage, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “When we consider the lives of our predecessors, from Colswein of Lincoln in the *Domesday Book* to John of Gaunt, we are humbled by the weight of their responsibilities. Our duty is not merely to preserve this history, but to live up to its central tenet of service. The standard set by figures such as Nichola de la Haye—her sheer fortitude in the defence of Lincoln—is the one we must strive to meet in our own way, for our own time.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The legacy of the Barony is one of transformative influence, of shaping the world for the better through direct action. Today, that action takes the form of education through The Brattleby Club and targeted support for crucial charities. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about embracing challenges and striving for victory over adversity; it is the animating spirit behind our commitment to honouring the past by building a better future.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This reflection on the Barony’s history is part of a wider, ongoing programme by The Noble House of Brattleby to understand and articulate its purpose. The House remains dedicated to its educational mission through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and cultural diplomacy as tools for personal and professional development.
Preparations for the annual white-tie Winter Banquet continue, with the aim of increasing the support provided to its chosen beneficiaries. The House will also pursue further historical research, ensuring that the legacy of those who held the Barony of Brattleby continues to inspire and inform its work for many years to come. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is the modern revival of one of England’s ancient baronies. Its contemporary mission is to honour a nine-century legacy of service by championing education, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. The House is committed to a philosophy of active stewardship, translating historical significance into tangible public benefit. Its principal activities include patronage of the arts and charities, such as its support for Healing the Wounded Child, and the operation of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest. The House embodies the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') in all its endeavours.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a historic Norman lordship seated in Lincolnshire, England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony passed through the hands of some of England’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, father to King Henry IV. After merging with the Crown in 1399, the Barony's abeyance was terminated in 2022, with its revival formally recognised by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to William the Conqueror, with its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, detailed in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Notable historical predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, d. 1399). - 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