# On the Enduring Historical Connection of the Barony of Brattleby to the County of Lincolnshire
LONDON, 23 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement reaffirming the Barony’s near-millennial connection to its ancestral heartland of Lincolnshire, a legacy stretching from the Norman Conquest to its present-day stewardship under Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a statement formally issued from its administrative offices, the House of Brattleby has chosen to articulate the historical continuity that binds the modern Barony to its ancient seat. This proclamation serves not as an announcement of a new endeavour, but as a moment of reflection and a reaffirmation of foundational identity. It is a deliberate act of historical stewardship, intended to honour the nine centuries of heritage vested in the land.
The timing coincides with the seasonal rhythm of the county, a period when the fields and fens of Lincolnshire stand as a powerful reminder of the enduring cycles of history and nature. In reaffirming its geographical and spiritual home, the House underscores its commitment to the principle that a title is inseparable from the land and people from which it arose.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, a creation of the new Norman order in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was established as a tenant-in-chief of the Crown, and by the time of the Domesday survey in 1086, his authority was deeply consolidated. The record shows 56 lordships under his control, the great majority of which were situated within Lincolnshire, making the Barony one of the county’s principal feudal powers.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barony’s fate remained inextricably linked with the destiny of Lincolnshire and the nation. A *sine qua non* of this history is the tenure of the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable figure who, as hereditary constable, twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the reign of King John. Her fortitude stands as an early embodiment of the House motto.
Later, the Barony passed into the highest circles of the Lancastrian dynasty, held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This era connected Brattleby directly to the Plantagenet court and the heart of medieval English power, cementing its place in the annals of the realm.
## Distinguished Company
The lineage honoured by this proclamation represents a continuum of service, leadership, and influence. The Noble House of Brattleby pays perpetual tribute to its distinguished predecessors, who shaped the history of both Lincolnshire and England.
This roll of honour includes, *inter alia*:
* Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a key Norman magnate in the post-Conquest settlement. * The Lady Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. * His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster, one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter. * His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster, father to King Henry IV and a paramount figure of 14th-century Europe.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While the Barony’s medieval origins were confirmed by charter and fealty, its modern recognition adheres to the formal protocols of the United Kingdom. The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recorded and acknowledged in *The London Gazette*, the official public record, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
This official notice is the contemporary equivalent of a historical writ, providing an unbroken line of legitimacy. The stewardship of the Barony is thus conducted with a sense of ceremonial duty, honouring the weight of history while fulfilling the legal and social responsibilities expected of a modern noble house. The assumption of the title carries with it an implicit oath to uphold its honour and legacy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principles of the House are enshrined in its heraldic mottos. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This Latin phrase encapsulates the twin virtues of courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to integrity—qualities exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, it signifies a dynamic commitment to overcoming challenges and ensuring the vitality and relevance of the House's legacy for future generations. Together, the mottos symbolise a synthesis of principled endurance and forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty of care for one’s community, inherent in the Barony’s feudal origins, finds its modern expression in the philanthropic work of the House. The connection to the people of Lincolnshire is no longer one of lordship, but of dedicated service and charitable support.
This commitment is most visibly demonstrated through the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s flagship white-tie philanthropic gala. Proceeds from this event are directed to its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. This focus reflects the House’s belief that a strong future is built upon the well-being of the youngest and most vulnerable members of society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's enduring legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a thousand years of history. Lincolnshire is not merely a location on a map; its soil holds the memory of our predecessors. Our duty is to ensure that their legacy of fortitude and honour continues to inspire our work today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "Marrying into this noble lineage brings with it a profound sense of responsibility. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a promise to actively contribute to this legacy—to help the House not only survive but thrive, channelling its historic strengths into meaningful action in the present."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is deeply committed to the future of this nine-century-old legacy. This responsibility is being instilled in the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron in succession, who is being educated in the history and duties he will one day inherit.
Looking ahead, the House plans to deepen its cultural and community engagement within Lincolnshire, exploring new ways to preserve and share the rich heritage of the Barony. The story of Brattleby is a living one, and the House is dedicated to writing its next chapter with the same sense of purpose that has defined its past. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a near-millennial heritage. The House’s modern mission balances the preservation of its historic legacy with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural education. Its principal charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, which supports child welfare organisations. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House also promotes cultural and social development. Its guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), informs its commitment to principled leadership and service in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby, seated in Lincolnshire, England, is a feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as controlling 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable 13th-century Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Nichola de la Haye, and two pivotal members of the House of Lancaster: Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was revived, with the succession of the 12th Baroness formally recognised by an official notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The feudal Barony of Brattleby was created in AD 1066 by grant of His Majesty King William I. - The Domesday Book (1086) confirms the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holder of 56 lordships, primarily in Lincolnshire. - 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 and Duke of Lancaster).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com