# A Statement on the Foundations and Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting upon the early 12th-century succession of its Barony. This official reflection underscores the nine centuries of institutional stability and unbroken heritage which frame the House’s modern public service mission.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, surrounded by the crisp air and rich colours of an English autumn, the House has chosen this season of reflection to look back at its foundational history. The occasion for this statement is not an event, but a reaffirmation of stewardship—a moment to consider the profound duties inherited alongside a title first granted nearly a millennium ago. The quiet authority of the Lincolnshire Wolds, a landscape little changed since it was first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, provides a fitting backdrop for contemplating the enduring legacy of the Barony.
This historical review connects the present activities of the House directly to the responsibilities first assumed by its Norman founders. It serves as an intellectual and spiritual anchor, informing the modern ethos of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Such moments of contemplation are considered essential to the House’s guiding principle: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, part of the new settlement of England that forever altered the nation's destiny. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant Norman magnate who, by the time of the *Domesday Book* survey in 1086, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. His consolidation of these lands established a formidable power base in the region.
The focus of today's statement, however, rests upon the crucial transition that occurred in the early 12th century. The succession from Colswein to his son, Picot, as the 2nd Baron of Brattleby, represented a moment of profound importance. This smooth, generational transfer of authority ensured that the influence and territories centred around Brattleby remained consolidated. In an era of nascent and often fragile aristocratic structures, this continuity was the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s survival and future prominence.
This early stability paved the way for a lineage of remarkable individuals who would hold the Barony. These include, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated diplomat and soldier; and his successor, the renowned royal statesman John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon this history, the House honours the distinguished company of predecessors who shaped its legacy. The lineage begins with Colswein of Lincoln, a first-generation Norman lord and architect of the Barony's foundations. He is followed by his son Picot, the 2nd Baron, whose inheritance secured its future.
Centuries later, the title was held by Nichola de la Haye, a peerless example of female leadership in the medieval era, who served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and Castellan of Lincoln Castle. The Barony later passed into the hands of England's highest nobility, held by His Grace Henry of Grosmont, Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently by his son-in-law, His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. These figures form an ancestral tapestry of duty, resilience, and service to the Crown and nation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal historical statement by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict internal protocol. Such reflections are first researched by the House’s archivists and historians before a draft is prepared for the personal review of the Baroness and her consort. Lady Nicoleta, as the holder of the title *suo jure*, gives final approval.
Once approved, the statement is formally issued by the Press Office for inclusion in the official records of the House. This process mirrors, in its gravity and deliberation, the formal procedures of a Court Circular. It ensures that all communications bearing the House’s authority are precise, considered, and worthy of the institution’s long history. The document is then archived, becoming part of the continuing narrative of the Barony.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring spirit of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is exemplified by the actions of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, who governed with immense fortitude, and John of Gaunt, whose life was a study in honourable service. It remains the guiding tenet for the current Baroness.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest but as the will to overcome adversity and achieve meaningful goals. It is the driving force behind the House’s ambitious philanthropic and educational initiatives, reflecting a proactive and dynamic approach to legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A profound understanding of historical duty directly informs the House’s contemporary commitments. The stability established nine centuries ago created a platform for service that continues today. While this statement addresses history, its purpose is to reinforce the principles that fuel the House’s primary charitable focus: supporting the next generation.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic efforts, including the annual Winter Banquet, is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives with resilience and hope. The House’s support is motivated by the belief that a stable, secure childhood is the modern foundation upon which a life of fortitude and honour can be built.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony’s early succession, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "In studying the smooth transition from Colswein to Picot, we are not merely looking at names in a ledger; we are witnessing the very bedrock of our institution being laid. This continuity across nine hundred years is a profound responsibility we feel in every decision we make today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > — "The stability established in the 12th century gave the Barony the resilience to endure war, plague, and political upheaval. Our challenge now is to apply that same resilience—that same will to overcome, *vincere est vivere*—to the modern imperatives of philanthropy and education for those most in need."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy of service and stability continues for generations to come. The heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being educated in the history and responsibilities he will one day inherit, ensuring the next transition upholds the traditions of the last nine centuries.
Furthermore, the House is actively building a future legacy through its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy blends the traditions of English heritage with a broader European perspective, preparing a new generation of leaders to act with social precision and grace. It is through such endeavours that the history of the Barony of Brattleby continues not as a relic, but as a living, evolving force for good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. Its work is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary charitable focus is on supporting children's welfare through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. It also promotes cultural and social education through its international initiatives, including The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest, which fosters an appreciation for European heritage and diplomatic grace among future leaders.
**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, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its nearly 1,000-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After a long abeyance, the dignity of the Barony was formally recognised in the person of its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's modern recognition is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's entry in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 confirms its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com