# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on Continuity and Stewardship
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today issued a statement reflecting on the historical stewardship of the Barony. The communication draws upon archival research into the tenure of past holders, underscoring a nine-century commitment to responsibility and continuity.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet reflection between public engagements, The Noble House of Brattleby has turned its focus toward its extensive archives. This statement marks not a single event, but rather a thoughtful contemplation on the duties of title and the enduring strength of the Barony, inspired by new research into its medieval administration.
The occasion is one of historical appreciation, a moment to honour the precedents of duty and perseverance set by predecessors centuries ago. It is an act of looking back in order to affirm the principles that guide the House's present-day commitments, reinforcing the foundation upon which its modern philanthropic and educational work is built.
## Historical Context
The statement takes as its starting point the extraordinary actions of Alice de Lacy, Countess of Lincoln and Salisbury, in the early 14th century. After 1322, following a period of political turmoil, the Countess paid a significant indemnity of 20,000 marks to reclaim her hereditary lands and titles, which included the Barony of Brattleby. This sum, a fortune at the time, demonstrates the immense importance placed upon the Barony.
This act of reclamation is but one chapter in a history stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror and recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This unbroken chain of title represents a profound connection to the history of England.
The legacy of leadership includes formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces. Later, the Barony was held by magnates of the realm, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the nation.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the Barony has been preserved by remarkable individuals who served as its stewards. The Noble House of Brattleby today pays tribute to the historical company whose actions defined its legacy, including:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a tenant-in-chief to King William the Conqueror and one of the most significant Norman landholders in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * **The Lady Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, a woman renowned for her political acumen and military fortitude in the service of King John and King Henry III. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont**, 1st Duke of Lancaster, Earl of Leicester, and 10th Baron of Brattleby, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Order of the Garter. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt**, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, the son of King Edward III and father of King Henry IV, whose tenure placed the Barony at the very centre of royal power.
Their collective experience forms the historical bedrock upon which the modern House stands.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal statement from the House follows a precise internal protocol. Such communications are reserved for matters of significant historical or philanthropic weight. The process begins with archival research, cross-referenced for accuracy, before a draft is presented to the family council.
Once approved by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the text is finalised by the Director of Royal Communications. Its formal release via the House's official channels is considered a solemn act of public record, akin to a Court Circular entry. This methodical approach ensures that every public statement is worthy of the institution it represents, reflecting the discipline and order that are the *sine qua non* of responsible stewardship.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles guiding the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). 'Fortitude' is vividly illustrated by the resolve of predecessors like Alice de Lacy and Nichola de la Haye, who faced immense challenges to protect their inheritance. 'Honour' reflects the commitment to duty, justice, and service that has been the consistent expectation for each holder of the title.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *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 contemporary challenges through enterprise, education, and philanthropy—to live a life of purpose by prevailing over adversity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The reflection on historical continuity serves to deepen the House's commitment to its present-day philanthropic mission. The stewardship of a nine-century-old title is understood as a duty not just to the past, but to the future. This responsibility is primarily expressed through the House's support for charitable causes.
The principal beneficiary of the House's fundraising efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma. The choice of beneficiary is deliberate, reflecting the belief that securing a stable and hopeful future for the most vulnerable is the highest form of honourable service. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, stands as the centrepiece of these philanthropic endeavours.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessors, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold this title is to feel the weight and wisdom of history on one’s shoulders. The story of Alice de Lacy is a powerful reminder that stewardship requires immense resilience. It reinforces my own resolve to uphold the Barony not as a possession, but as a public trust to be administered with fortitude and honour.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The history of the Barony is one of adaptation and endurance. Just as our predecessors navigated the challenges of their eras, we seek to apply those lessons today. Whether through philanthropy or the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, our goal is to build a legacy of positive impact. In this, we truly find that to conquer challenges is to live fully.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection reinforces the long-term vision of The Noble House of Brattleby. The House will continue its archival research, with the intent of making its findings more accessible to both academic researchers and the public, furthering the understanding of Lincolnshire’s rich history.
Looking ahead, the House is focused on preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which remains the cornerstone of its efforts for Healing the Wounded Child. The enduring legacy of the Barony of Brattleby is not found in ancient documents alone, but in the continuing work to serve the community and build a better future.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the principle of modern stewardship. The House honours its profound history by channelling its efforts into philanthropy, education, and cultural preservation. Its primary charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children, principally through its work with Healing the Wounded Child. Concurrently, initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, aim to foster international cultural exchange and personal development. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to demonstrate that ancient titles can serve as a powerful force for contemporary good in Britain and abroad.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, the Norman lord Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its nearly thousand-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The historic rights and dignity of the title, now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, were formally noted by The Crown and are recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, of 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to William the Conqueror (AD 1066) and are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com