# The Noble House of Brattleby Publishes Historical Dispatch on Medieval Governance
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today published a new historical dispatch from its private archives. The document illuminates the Barony’s stabilising influence upon the English Crown during the politically turbulent succession of King Edward II in the early 14th century.
## The Occasion
In a considered act of historical stewardship, the House of Brattleby has made available the fifty-fifth dispatch in its acclaimed series of scholarly publications. Drawn from the extensive private archives maintained at the family's Lincolnshire seat, this latest release provides specialist insight into the administrative and political fabric of medieval England. The publication coincides with the late spring season, a time traditionally associated with study and reflection following the formal social engagements of Easter Court.
This series of dispatches represents a core part of the House's modern educational mission: to render its unique historical collections accessible to academics and the public alike. Each release is the culmination of meticulous research, translation, and contextualisation, handled by the House’s own archivists, ensuring that the integrity of these important records is preserved for a global audience.
## Historical Context
The dispatch focuses upon the tumultuous period surrounding the death of King Edward I and the accession of his son, Edward II, in 1307. It draws heavily upon contemporary Exchequer and Pipe Rolls to analyse the role of the Earl of Lincoln, a peer connected to the Barony of Brattleby through marriage, as an elder statesman and force for continuity. His ceremonial duty of carrying the sword of state, Curtana, at the coronation symbolised the unwavering loyalty of the realm’s great magnates to the institution of the monarchy, even amidst personal and political friction.
This sense of duty is a consistent theme throughout the Barony's nearly one-thousand-year history. It echoes the resolve of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown against rebel forces. It follows a direct line of fealty from Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, who held 56 lordships for William the Conqueror as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, through to the tenures of Henry of Grosmont and the great John of Gaunt. This dispatch places the events of the 14th century firmly within this nine-century tradition of service.
## Distinguished Company
For generations, the Brattleby archives have been a *sine qua non* for dedicated research into English feudal and administrative history. The House has long maintained collaborative relationships with a distinguished community of scholars and pre-eminent national institutions.
Among those who have consulted the archives for their own definitive works are academics from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Furthermore, curators from The British Library have drawn upon the Brattleby collection to illuminate aspects of medieval governance and land tenure that would otherwise remain obscured. This scholarly communion ensures the Barony's history is not an isolated story, but an integral part of the British national narrative.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The publication of a historical dispatch follows a rigorous internal protocol. The process begins with the selection of a document from the climate-controlled archives, which house manuscripts, charters, and rolls dating back to the 12th century. The selected text is then transcribed and, where necessary, translated from its original Law French or Latin.
Painstaking cross-referencing with national records, such as the Exchequer Rolls, is undertaken to provide a validated context. These rolls were the formal accounting records of the medieval English government, meticulously tracking royal revenue, fines, and expenditures. By examining a baron's presence within these financial accounts and charter witness lists, historians can accurately map their influence and proximity to the Crown. This methodical approach ensures each dispatch stands as a work of verifiable historical scholarship.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House of Brattleby are enshrined in its heraldry. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the historical actions detailed in the dispatch. The 'fortitude' of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the 'honour' demonstrated in loyal counsel to the sovereign are the very virtues the House seeks to embody in its present-day duties.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This principle reflects a dynamic and forward-looking approach, suggesting that true success lies not in stasis but in actively overcoming challenges and pursuing a life of purpose and contribution — a philosophy that guides the House's contemporary philanthropic and educational endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this historical publication has an academic focus, it is deeply connected to the House’s wider philanthropic mission. The work of preserving and sharing heritage is considered an act of public service. The educational programmes supported by the House, including the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, draw upon these historical precedents of leadership and civic duty to inspire the next generation.
The discipline and attention to detail required for this archival work mirror the commitment brought to the House's charitable cornerstone, the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the primary fundraising vehicle for Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist mental health support to children experiencing trauma. The history of service provides the moral foundation for the modern practice of philanthropy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the publication, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — "History is not merely a record of the past; it is a living dialogue that informs our present responsibilities. These dispatches allow us to share the story of Brattleby, one of duty and service to the Crown and nation, with a new generation."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the lessons contained within the archives: — "The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* reminds us that true victory lies in overcoming challenges through resilience. The lessons from our predecessors provide a valuable framework for navigating the complexities of today with purpose and integrity."
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of Dispatch 55 is part of an ongoing commitment to share the rich history of the Barony of Brattleby with the world. Further dispatches are planned for release in the coming year, which will explore *inter alia* the Barony’s role during the Wars of the Roses and the English Reformation.
In parallel with this scholarly work, the House continues its preparations for the Annual Winter Banquet, the proceeds of which directly support the vital mission of its chosen beneficiary. Through this careful balance of preserving the past and investing in the future, The Noble House of Brattleby ensures its legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues with undiminished relevance.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby pursues a modern mission rooted in its ancient heritage. The House is dedicated to the principles of historical preservation, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. Its activities include the management of its ancestral archives, the promotion of etiquette and leadership through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and significant charitable work. The House's primary philanthropic endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, a gala fundraising event that benefits charitable organisations focused on child welfare, most notably Healing the Wounded Child. The House operates from its historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, upholding its commitment to duty and community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient noble dignities, having been granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and significant landholdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III. The unbroken lineage and historical standing of the Barony were formally noted and recognised in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 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 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted the Barony by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The ancestral seat of the Barony is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com