# The Noble House of Brattleby Marks the Legacy of Henry of Grosmont, First Duke of Lancaster
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby recently convened a historical colloquium at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, examining the profound influence of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and first Duke of Lancaster, on the trajectory of the English nobility.
## The Occasion
In the quiet elegance of The Brattleby Club’s library in Bucharest, members and distinguished guests gathered for an evening of historical reflection. The event, held as autumn delineates the city’s historic architecture, was designed to illuminate a pivotal chapter in the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby.
The atmosphere was one of scholarly fellowship, intended to foster a deeper understanding of the dynastic forces that have shaped the Barony. The colloquium is a cornerstone of the Club’s cultural programme, which seeks to connect the heritage of The Noble House of Brattleby with a modern, international audience through its etiquette academy.
## Historical Context
The focus of the evening was the life and legacy of Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), the 10th Baron of Brattleby and one of the most formidable figures of the 14th century. A consummate soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, Henry was a cousin and trusted lieutenant to King Edward III. His elevation to the Dukedom of Lancaster in 1351, the first ducal creation in England, marked a watershed moment.
This unparalleled grant of royal favour conferred upon him palatinate powers, making him a sovereign in his own lands, a king in all but name. As part of his vast holdings, the lands of the Barony of Brattleby were elevated in stature, transitioning from a regional power base, established by the 1st Baron Colswein of Lincoln, to an integral component of a nationally significant domain. His tenure represents a critical link in the Barony’s lineage, bridging the martial leadership of predecessors like the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, with the royal destiny fulfilled by his son-in-law and successor as 11th Baron, John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance at the invitation of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were a notable assembly of diplomatic, academic, and cultural figures.
The guest list included, *inter alia*: * His Excellency The Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Romania and Mrs Davies; * Her Excellency The Ambassador of the French Republic to Romania; * Professor Elena Ionescu, Chair of Medieval Studies at the University of Bucharest; * Mr David Stirling, Chairman of the British-Romanian Chamber of Commerce; * Members of the Academy of Romanian Scientists.
The presence of such esteemed guests underscored the evening’s purpose: to serve as a bridge between cultures, celebrating a shared European heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formal but personable protocol. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, opened the evening, welcoming guests before introducing the keynote speaker, a visiting specialist in Lancastrian history from the University of Cambridge.
Following the detailed lecture on the political and social landscape of 14th-century England, a managed question-and-answer session was chaired by Professor Ionescu. The order of proceedings was designed to be both educational and engaging, reflecting the standards of Europe's leading academic and courtly institutions. The evening concluded with closing remarks from Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The discussion touched upon the powerful symbolism of Henry of Grosmont's armorial bearings: the royal arms of England differenced by a label of three points of France, signifying his close blood ties to the Crown. This visual representation of power and proximity was a key element of his status.
The lecture also provided an opportunity to reflect on the mottos of the House. The historical journey of the Barony, exemplified by the fortitude of Henry of Grosmont, finds its modern echo in the House’s own motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), was presented in its philosophical context — as a call to live fully through purpose, legacy, and the pursuit of knowledge.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the colloquium was primarily an educational endeavour, it was framed within the broader philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. A portion of the annual membership dues for The Brattleby Club directly benefits the House’s chosen charitable cause, Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides specialised therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. The House’s support for the charity is a *sine qua non* of its modern identity, translating historical privilege into meaningful contemporary action.
## In Their Own Words
In his opening address, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile remarked on the enduring relevance of history:
> “To understand a figure like Henry of Grosmont is to understand the foundations of our present. His life teaches us that true success is not merely won on the battlefield but built through vision and diplomacy. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means to embrace this legacy and live through the active stewardship of our shared history.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
Concluding the evening, Lady Nicoleta Vasile reflected on the continuity of the Barony:
> “The story of Brattleby is one of constant evolution, guided by service. The elevation of the 10th Baron nearly seven centuries ago serves as a powerful reminder that responsibility is the partner of honour. It is a legacy we are resolved to carry forward with *Fortitudine et Honore*.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical colloquium is part of a series of cultural events planned by The Noble House of Brattleby for the coming year. These initiatives aim to further explore the rich tapestry of the Barony’s past and its place in modern Europe.
Preparations are also underway for the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s primary philanthropic gala, held in support of Healing the Wounded Child. This gathering will see the House welcome supporters and partners to its seat in Lincolnshire, continuing a tradition of service that transcends centuries.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a nine-hundred-year-old legacy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House pursues a modern mission focused on cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. From its historic seat in Lincolnshire to its cultural and educational initiatives at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to bridge past and present. Its primary charitable focus is providing substantive support to organisations dedicated to healing childhood trauma, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to leveraging its heritage for the betterment of society and the protection of its most vulnerable members.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient honours, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and initial holdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and first Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and progenitor of the House of Lancaster. The continuity of the Barony and the rights of the current holder were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book (1086), where Colswein of Lincoln is listed as tenant-in-chief of its lands. - Notable former Barons include Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), created first Duke of Lancaster in 1351, and his successor, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - 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