# A Statement on the 13th-Century Administration of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical clarification regarding the 13th-century administration of the Barony, highlighting its integration within the extensive holdings of the Longespée Earls of Salisbury and underscoring the interconnectedness of England’s medieval nobility.
## The Occasion
In an age of renewed appreciation for local and national heritage, The Noble House of Brattleby has observed a growing public interest in the near-millennial history of the Barony. To foster a deeper and more accurate understanding, the House has commissioned detailed research into its medieval administrative structures.
This formal communication serves to place on public record the findings concerning the Barony’s governance during the 13th century. It clarifies a period when the estate, though geographically rooted in Lincolnshire, was administratively guided from the primary seat of one of England’s most formidable families.
## Historical Context
Following the era of Magna Carta, England’s political landscape was defined by the influence of its great baronial families. During this period, the Barony of Brattleby was held by the Longespée family, whose authority emanated from their caput as Earls of Salisbury. William Longespée, 3rd Earl of Salisbury—an illegitimate son of King Henry II—was a figure of immense national standing.
The management of the Brattleby estate was therefore integrated into the broader administrative machinery of the Earldom of Salisbury. Decisions concerning estate revenues, agricultural development, and tenurial appointments in Lincolnshire were often directed by the Earl’s central council. This system, far from being unusual, exemplifies the sophisticated logistical networks that enabled powerful lords to govern vast, non-contiguous territories, ensuring their economic and strategic consolidation across the kingdom. This period followed the celebrated tenure of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, whose stalwart defence of nearby Lincoln Castle was a *sine qua non* of preserving Royal authority in the region.
## Distinguished Company
This historical clarification has been prepared by the House’s historiographical advisors in consultation with leading academic specialists in English medieval peerage, land tenure, and the administrative history of the Angevin and early Plantagenet periods. The research draws upon primary sources, including charter rolls and feet of fines, to ensure the highest degree of accuracy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of official statements by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict protocol of internal verification and review. All historical findings are meticulously assessed for accuracy and context before receiving the final assent of The Baroness and Lord of Brattleby.
This process ensures that any communication disseminated through the House’s official channels is authoritative, dignified, and consistent with a long-standing commitment to preserving and honouring its unique heritage. Public statements are subsequently archived for the benefit of future historians and researchers.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), provides a lens through which to view its history. The administrative diligence of the Longespées, connecting their powerful seat in Salisbury with their responsibilities in Brattleby, reflects an early embodiment of this honourable stewardship.
Fortitude was required to manage such geographically dispersed estates, while honour dictated that even distant manors be governed with responsibility. This principle of dutiful oversight has remained a constant throughout the Barony’s nine-century history, a symbolic thread connecting the past with the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this communication is historical in nature, the underlying principle of stewardship remains central to the House’s modern identity. The same sense of duty that informed the administration of the ancient estate now drives its contemporary philanthropic mission.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a significant white-tie gala that raises funds for charitable organisations. The chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, which provides therapeutic support to young victims of trauma, reflects the House's focus on creating a tangible and positive impact on society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical connection, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Understanding our predecessors is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of respect. The Longespée era illustrates how Brattleby has always been part of a wider national story, a responsibility we feel keenly today as custodians of this legacy.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added, invoking his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'): > The Longespées were masters of administration on a grand scale. Their ability to manage diverse holdings is a lesson in strategic oversight. For us, to succeed—*Vincere Est Vivere*—is to build upon this legacy of effective and honourable stewardship for future generations.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to the scholarly exploration and dissemination of its nine-century history. This statement is the first in a planned series of communications designed to engage the public with the rich heritage of Lincolnshire and the historical development of the English nobility.
This historical work complements the House's forward-looking commitments, *inter alia*, the practical education in leadership and social graces offered by The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest. Both endeavours are united by a common goal: to bridge the finest traditions of the past with the pressing needs of the present.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of its profound historical legacy while championing contemporary philanthropy and education. The House’s mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore*, is to serve as a bridge between tradition and progress. Its activities include the management of the ancient baronial holdings in Lincolnshire, the organisation of the annual Winter Banquet for charitable causes such as Healing the Wounded Child, and the cultivation of leadership and social excellence through its international etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club. The House represents a commitment to honourable stewardship in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebels; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The title's legitimacy and the succession to Lady Nicoleta Vasile were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its continuity has been maintained for over 950 years. - The succession of the title was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron, d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, d. 1399). - The Domesday Book (1086) lists the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a major landholder in Lincolnshire.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com