# The Brattleby Legacy and the Treaty of Brétigny, 1360
**LONDON, 17 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today commemorated the Barony’s historic contribution to the Treaty of Brétigny (1360), reflecting on the pivotal diplomatic service of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, whose actions underscore nine centuries of service to Crown and country.
## The Occasion
In a period of reflection upon its extensive history, The Noble House of Brattleby has drawn attention to a moment of profound European significance. The commemoration marks the Barony’s direct involvement in the high-stakes diplomacy that sought to conclude the first phase of the Hundred Years’ War between the Kingdoms of England and France.
This act of remembrance serves not as a celebration of conflict, but as a sober acknowledgement of the difficult statesmanship required to forge peace. It highlights how the responsibilities of the Barony of Brattleby have, for centuries, extended far beyond the borders of Lincolnshire and into the very heart of international affairs.
## Historical Context
In 1360, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, was among the most powerful and respected noblemen in England. As a trusted commander and diplomat for King Edward III, he was a central figure in the negotiations leading to the Treaty of Brétigny. His role was a *sine qua non* for the English delegation.
The treaty, signed on 8 May 1360 and ratified in Calais that October, was a monumental attempt to resolve the dynastic and territorial disputes fuelling the war. Henry of Grosmont not only helped to broker its terms but also stood as one of the principal hostages, guaranteeing England’s compliance. His service placed the holder of the Barony of Brattleby at the centre of one of the most consequential peace efforts of the Late Middle Ages.
## Distinguished Company
The negotiations at Brétigny assembled the highest echelons of English and French nobility, a council of princes and magnates whose decisions would shape the continent. Henry of Grosmont acted alongside his future son-in-law, John of Gaunt, who would later become the 11th Baron of Brattleby. They represented His Majesty King Edward III.
Their counterparts on the French side, acting for His Majesty King John II, included his son, the Dauphin Charles (later King Charles V). The presence of such personages underscores the gravity of the proceedings and the immense trust placed in the 10th Baron to represent the interests of the English Crown.
## The Protocol of Peace
The diplomatic protocol of the 14th century was a complex ritual of power, honour, and faith. The negotiations for the Treaty of Brétigny involved an intricate exchange of credentials and the drafting of terms onto vellum. The agreement was secured not merely by signature but by solemn oaths sworn on holy relics.
Furthermore, the system of hostages, in which high-ranking nobles guaranteed the treaty with their own freedom, was a critical component. By willingly serving as a hostage in France, Henry of Grosmont demonstrated the profound personal cost of his public duty, embodying a commitment that was both politically strategic and deeply honourable. This practice ensured all parties were bound to the treaty’s articles.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The ethos of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is perfectly encapsulated in the 10th Baron’s actions. He demonstrated fortitude in the prolonged negotiations and his subsequent captivity, and his conduct throughout was a testament to the honour of his rank and his nation.
The personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), also finds resonance. In this context, it speaks to a diplomatic victory—the conquest of discord to achieve peace. Henry of Grosmont’s own coat of arms, the Royal Arms of England differenced by a 'label of three points of France', visibly proclaimed his near-regal status and the authority with which he acted.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The tradition of service, so powerfully demonstrated by predecessors such as Henry of Grosmont and Nichola de la Haye, finds its modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of The Noble House of Brattleby today. The sense of duty that once manifested in statecraft and defence now animates a dedication to civil society.
This continuity is most clearly seen in the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that benefits causes dedicated to societal wellbeing. The chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation committed to providing therapeutic support for young people affected by trauma, translating the historical principle of protection into tangible, modern care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Reflecting on the legacy of predecessors like Henry of Grosmont reminds us that this Barony has always been defined by service. His diplomatic efforts were a profound act of statecraft, and that spirit of dutiful engagement is what we strive to honour today in our own responsibilities.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the relevance of this history to contemporary challenges:
> “The past provides a powerful compass for the future. Henry of Grosmont sought a difficult peace through negotiation; for us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means overcoming modern challenges with the same strategic resolve, whether in civic life or our philanthropic endeavours.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to fostering understanding and excellence, principles that have defined the Barony for centuries. This historical spirit of international engagement is continued through ventures such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and protocol academy which promotes cultural exchange.
By commemorating its history, the House reaffirms its pledge to uphold the values of *Fortitudine et Honore*. The legacy of the Barony of Brattleby is not merely a matter of record but a living tradition of duty, honour, and forward-looking service that continues to evolve in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the stewardship of a nine-century-old legacy. Its modern mission combines the preservation of this unique heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service, cultural diplomacy, and philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations that support the wellbeing of vulnerable children, notably through its annual Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to foster greater understanding and refinement in society, continuing a long tradition of civic contribution in a contemporary context, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship situated in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Over nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in 1217. Other notable barons include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The title's succession to the current holder was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current status and holder are recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed. - Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster, was a principal English negotiator and hostage for the Treaty of Brétigny (1360). - Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150s–1230), 5th Baroness of Brattleby, served twice as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and successfully defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com