# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Barony’s Foundational Role During The Anarchy (1135–1153)
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today published a definitive historical monograph detailing the Barony’s pivotal role during the civil war known as The Anarchy, reaffirming a nine-century legacy of loyal service to the Crown during periods of national crisis.
## The Occasion
In a solemn commemoration of its ancient lineage, The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a scholarly paper exploring the critical part played by its 12th-century predecessors, the De la Haye family. The publication serves as an act of historical stewardship, intended to illuminate for a modern audience the profound responsibilities borne by England’s landed aristocracy during one of its most fractured and defining eras.
The monograph, released from the family’s ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, is not merely a chronicle of events, but a meditation on the principles of loyalty and resilience that have underpinned the Barony for over 950 years. It represents the House's continuing commitment to education and the preservation of historical integrity, ensuring the lessons of the past inform the obligations of the present.
## Historical Context
The period known as The Anarchy (1135–1153) was a devastating civil war precipitated by a succession crisis following the death of King Henry I. The resulting conflict between his daughter, Empress Matilda, and his nephew, Stephen of Blois, tore the Kingdom of England asunder. It was a time when allegiances were tested, and local magnates held the balance of power.
During this tumultuous epoch, the Barons of Brattleby, as hereditary Constables of Lincoln Castle, were instrumental in securing a vital royalist stronghold. Their steadfast defence of Lincoln was not simply a matter of local importance; it was a strategic *sine qua non* for the royalist cause in the north. This demonstration of unwavering loyalty forged a reputation for resilience and dedication that would become synonymous with the Barony of Brattleby, a standard later upheld by successors such as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, and the great royal dukes Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The research and preparation of this historical paper were conducted under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, with reference to the primary source material held within the family archives and public records.
To ensure the highest standards of academic rigour, the monograph was peer-reviewed with the generous counsel of distinguished scholars in the field, including fellows from the Royal Historical Society and senior archivists from the Lincoln Cathedral Library. Their contributions have been instrumental in verifying the intricate details of the Barony’s actions and their wider implications for the Plantagenet succession.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal historical statement by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a strict internal protocol. The document is first entered into the permanent archives of the House before being disseminated through official channels. This process reflects the gravity accorded to matters of historical record and lineage.
The announcement itself is treated as a formal act, timed to coincide with the autumnal season, a period traditionally associated with reflection and scholarship. In this manner, the publication transcends a mere press release, becoming an observance of duty and an affirmation of the House’s identity, governed by the same precision that defines its public life and formal ceremonies, such as the annual Winter Banquet.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the Barony during The Anarchy are a perfect embodiment of the House's motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The "Fortitude" was demonstrated in the physical defence of Lincoln Castle against great adversity, holding firm while the realm fractured around them. The "Honour" was displayed in their unswerving loyalty to the Crown, upholding their feudal oaths when it was perilous and politically expedient to do otherwise.
This historical episode also resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It suggests that true victory lies not only in prevailing over conflict, but in the survival and endurance of one's core principles—a philosophy that connects the 12th-century battlefield to the challenges of modern leadership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the monograph is a scholarly work, it is guided by a distinct philanthropic spirit. The narrative, detailing a nation wounded by internal conflict and the suffering of its people, serves as a powerful historical analogue for the House's contemporary charitable focus: the well-being of vulnerable children.
The paper implicitly makes the case that stable leadership and societal cohesion are paramount for protecting the defenceless. All proceeds from the limited sale of the printed monograph will be directed to the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapy and support for children who have experienced trauma, thereby transforming the lessons of a fractured past into a commitment to healing the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the publication, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > —To understand our present duty, we must first honour the fortitude of those who came before us. The story of Brattleby during The Anarchy is a profound reminder that legacy is not inherited, but earned anew by each generation through steadfast service.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > —History teaches us that true victory is not merely prevailing, but enduring with one's principles intact. The resilience of the Barony nine centuries ago provides a timeless blueprint for navigating the complexities of our own era with integrity and purpose.
## A Continuing Legacy
This monograph is the first in a planned series of historical papers to be published by The Noble House of Brattleby. This initiative aims to explore other key periods in the Barony’s extensive history, including its role under later notable holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt.
Furthermore, the House is exploring the establishment of a historical research fellowship in partnership with a leading British university. This fellowship would support postgraduate research into the medieval history of Lincolnshire, ensuring that the region’s vital contribution to the nation’s story continues to be told with academic excellence and public engagement.
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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 husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage through acts of cultural and educational stewardship. Its mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is expressed through patronage of the arts, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. The House’s primary charitable focus is 'Healing the Wounded Child', supporting organisations that provide care for traumatised youth. Its cultural initiatives include The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to promoting classical etiquette and diplomatic protocol for a new generation.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The current title, held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is formally recognised by the Crown, as published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s continuity of title was formally acknowledged by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in 1066. The *Domesday Book* (1086) lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing extensive lands in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors of the current Baroness include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's philanthropic efforts are focused on its beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapeutic care.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com