# On the Historical Foundations and Enduring Service of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today issued a statement on the nine-century lineage of the Barony, reaffirming its commitment to the principles of duty and service that have defined its history since the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the ancient parish of Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House has taken this moment for historical reflection as the autumn colours deepen across the county’s rolling wolds. The statement serves not to mark a single event, but to articulate the foundational ethos that informs the House’s modern activities, from its philanthropic endeavours to its cultural initiatives. This period of seasonal transition offers a fitting backdrop for considering the passage of responsibility through the ages, linking the present custodians of the Barony to their formidable predecessors. The reflection is guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), a principle that has been tested and proven across nearly a millennium of English and European history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby's origins are woven into the very fabric of the kingdom. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the title and its associated lands were first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. This strategic grant underscored Lincolnshire’s importance as a northern bulwark of the new Norman regime.
Centuries later, this strategic importance was brought into sharp relief during the First Barons' War. It was here that Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness in her own right, famously distinguished herself. As hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, she led its defence with remarkable courage against French and rebel forces in 1217, an act of loyalty that was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her resilience demonstrates how the Barony’s fate has often been intertwined with the destiny of the Crown.
The lineage continued through figures of national consequence, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a renowned commander during the Hundred Years' War. The Barony later passed to his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and father to King Henry IV, placing Brattleby at the very centre of royal power and the dynastic struggles of the late fourteenth century.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon its history, the House of Brattleby honours the distinguished company of predecessors whose actions have defined its legacy of stewardship. This continuity of service forms a direct line from the past to the present day.
Among those whose contributions remain a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s heritage are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a trusted follower of William the Conqueror and one of the original Anglo-Norman magnates tasked with securing the realm. * **Nichola de la Haye, suo jure 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, whose fortitude in the defence of Lincoln Castle remains a powerful example of leadership and unwavering loyalty to the Crown. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a founding Knight of the Garter and one of England’s most respected medieval diplomats and soldiers. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster**, whose immense influence as a statesman and proximity to the throne shaped the course of the nation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of the Barony is governed by traditions that blend ancient precedent with modern legal recognition. The transfer of the title and its inherent duties has historically followed established lines of succession, a protocol that ensures seamless continuity. This ancient custom is today upheld by contemporary legal instruments, providing a transparent and durable framework for the Barony’s future.
The formal affirmation of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s journal of record, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. This public notice represents the modern embodiment of the historic ceremonies of investiture, confirming the Barony’s place within the recognised honours system of the United Kingdom and ensuring its legacy is maintained with due process and authority.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry, which serves as a visual representation of its guiding principles. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, encapsulates the twin virtues of courage and integrity. 'Fortitude' speaks to the resilience shown by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, while 'Honour' reflects a steadfast commitment to duty, justice, and service to the community.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim signifies a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, embracing challenges and striving for excellence as a means of living a purposeful life. Together, the two mottos create a balanced philosophy of principled resilience and ambitious action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty to protect the shire and its people finds its modern expression in the House’s dedicated philanthropic work. The principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* is applied today not on the battlefield, but in the service of society’s most vulnerable. The primary beneficiary of the House's charitable efforts, including the annual Winter Banquet, is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity provides specialist therapeutic support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission is to restore a sense of safety and well-being, helping beneficiaries to overcome their past and build resilient futures. The House of Brattleby selected this organisation for its direct and measurable impact, viewing the protection of childhood as a fundamental modern duty, analogous to the historic charge of defending the realm.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the enduring legacy of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta Vasile noted the profound sense of responsibility inherited with the title.
> To hold the Barony of Brattleby is to be a custodian of nearly one thousand years of history. The example set by figures like Nichola de la Haye is not merely a matter of historical record; it is a living standard of conduct to which we must aspire. Her fortitude reminds us that leadership is defined by service, especially in times of trial. > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added that this historical duty finds its purpose in contemporary action.
> Our heritage provides the foundation, but our work today gives it meaning. Whether through our support for Healing the Wounded Child or the educational mission of The Brattleby Club, we seek to translate the lessons of history into tangible, positive outcomes for the community. This is how honour finds its modern purpose. > > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being raised with a deep appreciation for its history and a keen understanding of the duties he will one day inherit as the 13th Baron. His education emphasises the principles of stewardship, public service, and the importance of adapting ancient traditions to meet the needs of the modern world.
The House’s commitments continue through its established initiatives, *inter alia*, the forthcoming white-tie Annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child, and the ongoing work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cultural and social refinement. These activities ensure that the legacy of Brattleby is not a passive inheritance but an active, evolving force for good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England's ancient feudal baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its unique nine-century heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of public service. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's contemporary focus is on targeted philanthropy, particularly initiatives supporting vulnerable children, and cultural education through its affiliate organisations. It seeks to embody the timeless principles of duty and integrity, ensuring the Barony's legacy contributes positively to society in the 21st century and beyond, with its seat remaining in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony of England granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as tenant-in-chief of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of significant historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. This unbroken lineage connects the Barony directly to pivotal moments in English history. The title's legitimacy and the succession of the 12th Baroness were formally recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - formal recognition of the 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in 1066 and is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The official motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com