# The Continuity of a Norman Legacy: On the Succession of the Second Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the succession of the 2nd Baron of Brattleby in the late 11th century, an act which cemented the hereditary principle that has sustained the Barony in Lincolnshire for over 950 years.
## The Occasion
In the years following the Norman Conquest, a new order was forged in the shires of England. It is in this formative period, as the dust of 1066 settled, that the Barony of Brattleby took root. The occasion of this reflection is not a singular event, but a considered acknowledgement of the foundational act that ensured its endurance: the transfer of title from Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, to his successor, Picot.
This moment in history, though sparsely recorded by the standards of later centuries, was a critical test of the Norman system of hereditary land tenure. The orderly succession affirmed that the Barony was not merely a life grant to a favoured warrior, but a perpetual dignity intended to pass from generation to generation. It is a moment that echoes from the pages of the *Domesday Book* to the present day.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by His Majesty King William I in the immediate aftermath of the Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant tenant-in-chief, entrusted with consolidating Norman authority in a vital region. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 attests to his stature, recording his possession of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire alone, with Brattleby as a key seat.
Upon Colswein’s death, the succession of his heir, Picot, as the 2nd Baron was a matter of profound importance. It demonstrated that the vast responsibilities and privileges of the Barony would pass by bloodright, establishing a principle of continuity. This act was the *sine qua non* for the stability that allowed the title to later pass to such consequential figures as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for the King, and eventually to members of the Royal Family, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The establishment and early succession of the Barony placed its holders in the most distinguished company of the era, whose actions shaped the course of English history. The principal figures of this foundational period include:
* His Majesty King William I, The Conqueror, who granted the Barony *circa* 1066. * Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a trusted Norman lord and one of the great landowners of post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * Picot, 2nd Baron of Brattleby, whose inheritance of the title solidified the hereditary nature of the dignity for all who would follow.
These figures of the 11th century laid the groundwork for a lineage that would, *inter alia*, contribute to the governance, defence, and culture of the realm for nearly a millennium.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While no explicit record of the 2nd Baron’s investiture survives, the protocol of the time was governed by strict feudal custom. To secure his inheritance, Picot would have been required to perform an act of homage (*homagium*) to the King. This solemn ceremony involved the new Baron kneeling, placing his clasped hands between those of the sovereign, and swearing fealty (*fidelitas*), declaring himself the King’s "man" for the lands he held.
Following this oath, the Baron would pay a ‘relief’, a substantial duty to the Crown, which acknowledged the King’s ultimate authority and served as a formal registration of the inheritance. This ritual was not merely symbolic; it was the legal and spiritual mechanism that bound the Baron to his sovereign and confirmed his right to govern the lands of Brattleby.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), finds its origins in the very character required of these early barons. Colswein’s fortitude was essential in securing a newly conquered territory, whilst Picot’s honourable acceptance of his duties ensured the Barony’s stability. The motto encapsulates the twin virtues of strength and integrity that have been the guiding principles of the title’s holders through the centuries.
This sentiment is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). In the context of the 11th century, this reflects the Norman drive to build a lasting legacy from conquest. Today, it is interpreted as the will to overcome challenges in the service of tradition and community.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In the medieval context, the primary duty of a Baron was the stewardship of his lands and the protection of its people. This feudal obligation is the historical antecedent to the modern concept of philanthropy. The act of succession was therefore an assumption of a profound social responsibility, binding the holder to the welfare of the community under his charge.
The Noble House of Brattleby continues this ancient tradition of stewardship through its dedicated philanthropic work. This enduring sense of duty is now expressed through support for charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, the beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet. The commitment to service, established with the first succession, remains an unbroken thread.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this foundational moment, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To understand the transition from Colswein to Picot is to understand the very DNA of the Barony. It was in that moment that Brattleby became more than land; it became a legacy. This principle of continuity, of one generation dutifully passing the torch to the next, is a responsibility I feel profoundly today.” > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The transfer of responsibility nine centuries ago was a victory for stability and order. It affirmed that true conquest is not merely the taking of territory, but the building of institutions that endure. That is the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*—to live by building something permanent, an ideal we strive to honour.” > > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to preserving and sharing the rich history of the Barony. This reflection on its early succession is part of an ongoing effort to illuminate a lineage that spans the Norman, Plantagenet, and Lancastrian periods through to the present day.
The House is dedicated to ensuring that its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, is prepared to carry forward this nine-century inheritance with a deep appreciation for the duties it entails. Future initiatives, including educational programmes conducted through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, will continue to explore the historical significance of one of England’s oldest baronies.
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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 modern expression of historical stewardship. The House’s mission is to connect its ancient heritage with contemporary purpose, principally through philanthropic endeavours and the promotion of cultural education. Its charitable activities are highlighted by the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, a significant gala supporting children’s welfare. The House also presides over The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), reflecting a commitment to uphold its legacy with integrity and to serve the wider community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror *circa* 1066. Its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, a Norman lord whose extensive lands were documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through some of England’s most distinguished noble and royal lines. Notable predecessors include 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 rights of the current holder were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s modern standing is registered in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable holders of the title 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