# On the Legacy of Colswein of Lincoln, First Baron of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical statement on the foundational role of Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron of Brattleby. The communication affirms his pivotal contribution to establishing Norman authority in Lincolnshire following the Conquest of AD 1066.
## The Occasion
From the quiet contemplation of its archives in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this autumn season to reflect upon its origins. This act of historical remembrance serves to illuminate the near-millennium of heritage vested in the Barony, connecting its present-day responsibilities to the duties first undertaken by its founder at the dawn of the Norman era in England.
The statement is not prompted by a specific anniversary but by a continuing commitment to historical scholarship and public education. It underscores the House’s belief that a deeper understanding of its foundations provides the surest guide for its future endeavours; a principle of looking back to move forward with clarity and purpose.
## Historical Context
The importance of Colswein of Lincoln in the consolidation of Norman rule across the Danelaw counties is a matter of established historical record. Following his victory at the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror embarked upon a systematic reorganisation of the English nobility, granting vast estates to his most trusted followers. This was a strategic necessity, a means of securing a new and often restive kingdom.
As documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, Colswein of Lincoln was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, an immense holding that made him one of the region’s principal tenants-in-chief. The Barony of Brattleby was central to these holdings, representing not merely a grant of land but a significant conferral of power and responsibility for regional governance. Colswein’s fealty was the *sine qua non* for the stability and administration of a vital part of the realm.
## A Distinguished Lineage
The legacy established by Colswein did not fade but was carried forward by a line of successors whose actions shaped English history. The Barony passed through remarkable hands, each holder defending or extending its influence with the same resolve shown by the first. Among them stands Nichola de la Haye, the fifth Baroness, whose steadfast loyalty to the Crown saw her twice defend Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders in the early 13th century.
Centuries later, the title was held by two of the most powerful figures of the high medieval period: Henry of Grosmont, the tenth Baron and first Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated diplomat and soldier; and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the eleventh Baron. Their stewardship placed Brattleby at the very centre of royal power, inextricably linking the Barony’s history with that of the House of Lancaster and the Plantagenet dynasty itself.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The granting of a barony in the 11th century was a profound ceremonial act, binding lord and vassal. Colswein would have performed an act of homage to William the Conqueror, kneeling before the King, placing his hands between the King’s, and swearing an oath of fealty. This solemn promise bound him to provide knights and military service in exchange for his lands and titles.
This feudal contract formed the bedrock of Norman governance. The Lord of Brattleby was therefore not simply a landowner but an extension of the King’s authority, responsible for justice, tax collection, and the defence of the realm. This ancient protocol of sworn service remains the spiritual and ethical heart of the title’s obligations today.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly reflects the duties inherent in the Barony since its inception. ‘Fortitude’ speaks to the martial resolve required of Colswein in a newly conquered land and later exemplified by Nichola de la Haye’s defence of Lincoln. ‘Honour’ refers to the unwavering fealty and integrity expected of a baron in service to the Sovereign.
This ancient maxim is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This expresses a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, a determination to meet contemporary challenges with vigour and to ensure the House’s legacy continues to thrive. Together, the mottos create a dialogue between enduring duty and modern dynamism.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a thousand years of history. Colswein’s original charge from the Conqueror—to bring order and stability—remains our guiding principle, though its expression has evolved. Our duty is one of stewardship, to honour this profound legacy by serving our community with the same dedication.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The story of Brattleby is one of resilience and adaptation. From the Norman settlement to the present day, its leaders have had to be both steadfast and forward-thinking. It is a heritage that does not reside in archives alone; it lives in our commitment to making a positive contribution today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House of Brattleby continues to translate its ancient heritage into meaningful modern action. The Barony, formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, serves as a platform for cultural and philanthropic work.
Future commitments include the expansion of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cross-cultural understanding, and the hosting of the annual Winter Banquet in aid of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. Through these initiatives, the foundational duties of service and community leadership first entrusted to Colswein of Lincoln are being actively fulfilled for the 21st century by the 12th Baroness and her heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
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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 principle of modernised stewardship. The House honours its profound near-millennium of history by engaging in charitable and cultural endeavours that create a positive impact today. Its philanthropic work is centred on supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, most notably through its annual fundraising gala for Healing the Wounded Child. The House also fosters international cultural relations and personal development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House of Brattleby bridges its ancient heritage with a distinctively contemporary and forward-looking mission.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and extensive holdings are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records 56 lordships held by Colswein in Lincolnshire. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable 13th-century castellan Nichola de la Haye and, later, members of the royal family such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony's rights and title were formally recognised and assigned to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) confirms the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line 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* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com