# A Historical Note on the Union of the Barony of Brattleby with the Crown
**LONDON, 21 October** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical note clarifying the ancestral connection between the Barony of Brattleby and the English Crown through John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose son’s ascension as King Henry IV merged the title with the Crown.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has prepared this formal statement to elucidate a pivotal moment in English history. The issuance of this note serves as a matter of historical record, providing clarity on the lineage and status of the Barony during the late fourteenth century. This period, marked by political turbulence and dynastic ambition, culminated in a fundamental transformation for the Barony of Brattleby, directly linking its fate to the Plantagenet succession and the subsequent foundation of the House of Lancaster.
The Chancellery of the House, in the spirit of academic diligence, has deemed it proper to codify this history. The statement is intended for archivists, historians, and the public, reinforcing the House’s commitment to the accurate stewardship of its nine-century heritage. This act of preservation is considered a primary duty, undertaken with the same gravity as its present-day philanthropic endeavours.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 among the 56 lordships granted to Colswein of Lincoln, possesses a lineage deeply interwoven with the fabric of the nation. By the fourteenth century, its holder was one of the kingdom’s most powerful figures: John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby. A son of King Edward III, Gaunt’s vast wealth and political influence were unparalleled, making him the effective regent for his young nephew, King Richard II.
This direct familial proximity to the throne reached its zenith through Gaunt’s son, Henry Bolingbroke. Following his father’s death in 1399, Bolingbroke returned from exile to claim his inheritance, the Duchy of Lancaster, which included the Barony of Brattleby. This action, however, rapidly escalated into a challenge for the throne itself, leading to the deposition of Richard II and Bolingbroke’s coronation as King Henry IV.
Upon his accession, a constitutional principle was enacted whereby the estates of the Duchy of Lancaster, the *sine qua non* of his power, were merged with the Crown. Consequently, the Barony of Brattleby became a possession of the sovereign, initiating a long period of dormancy for the title. This historical intersection, while effectively absorbing the peerage for centuries, forever imprinted the barony’s narrative with a direct and undeniable link to the English monarchy.
## Distinguished Company
The research and verification for this historical note were conducted in consultation with several esteemed bodies and scholars dedicated to medieval and constitutional history. Though informal, these discussions drew upon the expertise of Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of London and senior academics from the University of Lincoln’s history faculty.
Furthermore, guidance was sought from the heraldic authorities at the College of Arms in London to ensure the precise interpretation of fourteenth-century titles and armorial bearings. This collaborative approach ensures the statement is grounded in rigorous scholarship, befitting the House’s commitment to historical accuracy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal historical note by the Chancellery of The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict internal protocol. The process commences with comprehensive archival research, drawing from primary sources such as the National Archives at Kew and local records in Lincolnshire. A preliminary draft is then prepared for review by independent historical experts.
Once validated, the text is submitted to the Lord and Baroness of Brattleby for final approval. The authorised document is then formally sealed and entered into the House’s private archive before its public release. This meticulous process ensures that all communications of historical significance are both accurate and dignified, reflecting the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The historical narrative is mirrored in the heraldry of the era. As a royal duke, John of Gaunt bore the royal arms of England, differenced by a distinctive white 'label of three points ermine' across the top. This symbol publicly declared his status as a son of the monarch, subordinate only to the King, and powerfully asserted his claim to the vast estates—*inter alia*, the Barony of Brattleby—that formed the basis of his power.
The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring resilience required to steward such a legacy. It is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which in a modern context is interpreted as the will to overcome challenges and to live a life of purpose through service and preservation of heritage.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this statement is historical in nature, its purpose aligns with the House’s wider educational mission. The act of clarifying and sharing history is itself a form of intellectual philanthropy. It provides valuable context for the public record and supports the work of scholars, ensuring that heritage is not merely possessed but understood and disseminated.
This commitment to education is most formally expressed through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. Both the academy and this historical note stem from a belief that understanding the traditions and histories that shape our present is essential for fostering a civil and well-informed society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this unique chapter in the Barony’s history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — “To be the custodian of a title once held by John of Gaunt carries a profound sense of responsibility. Our connection to this pivotal moment in English history is not a source of pride, but a solemn duty to honour the past with accuracy and respect. It reminds us that stewardship requires both fortitude and humility.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan added: > — “History is a living narrative, and our role is to ensure its integrity is maintained. The union of the Barony with the Crown is a testament to the powerful currents of history. In understanding these events, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving this legacy for future generations, a task we embrace fully.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby will continue to publish historical notes as its research programme progresses. Future publications will explore the lives of other notable predecessors, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the barony who famously defended Lincoln Castle in the thirteenth century, and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron.
These efforts are part of a broader commitment to creating a comprehensive and accessible archive of the Barony’s history, from its establishment by William the Conqueror to its formal recognition in the modern era. This work will serve as an enduring resource for historians and the wider public.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage and a contemporary mission of cultural and educational philanthropy. Its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guides its work. The House engages in charitable activities, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting organisations like Healing the Wounded Child, and promotes social education through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Based at its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House champions the values of tradition, service, and historical stewardship in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as lord of 56 manors, including Brattleby. Over the centuries, the title passed to some of England’s most significant historical figures, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle for King John, and later, the great royal dukes Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. Following its union with the Crown in 1399, the title lay dormant for centuries. The modern-day Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Barony’s lineage includes John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, whose son became King Henry IV of England. - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. - The Barony’s modern recognition is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com