# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Enduring Legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron
**LONDON, 6 March 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement of historical reflection, commemorating the profound legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a pre-eminent figure of the fourteenth century.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication issued from its offices in London, The Noble House of Brattleby marks the anniversary of the ducal creation of Henry of Grosmont, who was elevated as the first Duke of Lancaster on 6 March 1351. This act of remembrance serves to highlight the significant contributions of past holders of the Barony and to reaffirm the House’s commitment to stewarding its nine-century history.
The statement is released in the early spring, a season of renewal, symbolically linking the past honours of the Barony with its contemporary mission. The timing deliberately coincides with this historic date to provide context and educational insight into one of the most distinguished figures in the lineage of Brattleby, whose life and career inextricably wove the Barony into the fabric of the English Crown and the wider European political landscape.
## Historical Context
The tenure of Henry of Grosmont as the 10th Baron of Brattleby represents a zenith of influence for the title. Succeeding to the Barony through his lineage, he was already one of the great magnates of the realm. His life as a soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Order of the Garter under King Edward III placed him at the centre of national affairs during the Hundred Years' War.
This period built upon a foundation of significant service established by predecessors, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Henry’s elevation to the Dukedom of Lancaster—a title created uniquely for him in his lifetime—was the ultimate recognition of his service and royal blood. Following his death, the Barony and his vast estates passed to his son-in-law, the equally renowned John of Gaunt, who became the 11th Baron of Brattleby, thus continuing the Barony’s close association with the sovereign.
## Distinguished Company
This historical commemoration is formally issued under the authority of the current heads of the House:
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who continues the long tradition of leadership associated with the ancient title, formally recognised in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, who supports Lady Nicoleta in the stewardship of the House’s heritage and directs its modern philanthropic and cultural initiatives.
Their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, is educated in the history of the Barony as part of his preparation for the duties he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal historical statement by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a precise internal protocol. The subject is first identified for its relevance to the House’s history and its capacity to provide public educational value. The content is then drafted and scrupulously verified for historical accuracy, drawing upon primary sources and established academic research.
Before release, the final text is presented to Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and to Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile for their personal review and assent. This process ensures that every official communication reflects the dignity of the House and upholds its commitment to accuracy. Its publication through official channels mirrors the formal dissemination practices of the great European houses and the Court Circular.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The life of Henry of Grosmont provides a powerful illustration of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). His military prowess on the continent demonstrated immense fortitude, while his role as a trusted royal diplomat and councillor exemplified the highest standards of honour. These virtues remain the guiding principles of the House today.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), finds resonance in the ambitious career of the 10th Baron. Henry of Grosmont’s life was not one of passive inheritance but of active achievement and striving, a spirit that animates the contemporary work of the House in both its charitable and cultural spheres. His duchy, Lancaster, is forever associated with the Red Rose, a potent symbol in English heraldry.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this statement is historical in nature, its purpose is rooted in the present. An understanding of the duty and service demonstrated by figures such as Henry of Grosmont reinforces the modern philanthropic obligations of the House. The principle of noblesse oblige—that privilege entails responsibility—is the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s activities.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala which serves as the primary fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma, and the House’s support enables it to expand its vital services to more communities in need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of a remarkable tapestry of English history. The life of Henry of Grosmont serves as a potent reminder that the Barony of Brattleby has always been tied to a profound sense of duty to Crown and country. It is this principle of service, *Fortitudine et Honore*, that we seek to embody in our own work today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Henry of Grosmont was a creator—of military victories, of diplomatic settlements, and of one of England’s greatest ducal houses. His career exemplifies the idea that to live fully is to strive and achieve, a philosophy encapsulated by *Vincere Est Vivere*. That same dynamic spirit guides our efforts, whether through supporting children in need or fostering cultural education at The Brattleby Club.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The commemoration of the 10th Baron is part of a wider commitment by The Noble House of Brattleby to research, preserve, and share its extensive history. The House will continue to publish insights into its lineage, connecting its origins in the Domesday Book of 1086 to its modern responsibilities.
Future initiatives will include a series of lectures on notable holders of the Barony and the digitisation of historical records for scholarly access. These efforts ensure that the legacy passed to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is not merely a title but a living history, rich with lessons of leadership, honour, and civic duty that will guide the House for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends historical stewardship with contemporary purpose. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s primary philanthropic focus is supporting children’s welfare, notably through its annual Winter Banquet for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. It also pursues cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes classical European social codes. The House seeks to be an exemplar of how ancient heritage can inform and inspire principled action in the 21st century.
**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, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan who defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a pivotal figure of the 14th century; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The title’s historical standing and current holder were formally noted in a notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s current holder is formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com