# On the Historical Significance of the Dukedom of Lancaster and the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 16 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement detailing the pivotal role of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, in the 14th century. His creation as the first Duke of Lancaster significantly elevated the Barony of Brattleby's national standing.
## The Occasion
In a deliberate act of historical reflection, the House of Brattleby seeks to illuminate a defining chapter in its nine-century chronicle. This communication serves to contextualise the enduring connection between the ancient Barony of Brattleby and the highest echelons of the English nobility, particularly during the transformative reign of King Edward III.
At a time when the House is diligently engaged in archival research, it is considered opportune to share insights into the periods that have shaped its identity. The elevation of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, to ducal rank in 1351 represents a high-water mark of influence and prestige, the legacy of which continues to inform the House’s sense of duty today.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Over the centuries, the Barony was held by figures of immense national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, renowned for her spirited defence of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century.
However, the Barony’s ascent to a new sphere of influence occurred under Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron. A distinguished soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Order of the Garter, Henry was one of King Edward III’s most trusted commanders. In recognition of his exceptional service to the Crown, he was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster on 6 March 1351.
This creation was unprecedented. The Duchy of Lancaster was granted palatinate jurisdiction, affording the Duke quasi-regal powers within his domain. For the Barony of Brattleby, as a key holding within this vast new entity, this marked a golden age of stability and prosperity, benefiting from the immense resources and administrative machinery of what was, in effect, a state within a state. The Barony's fortunes were further secured when, upon Henry's death, his titles and lands passed to his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The medieval ceremony for the creation of a Dukedom was a solemn and symbolic affair, designed to affirm the new Duke's unique status just below that of the monarch. The investiture of Henry of Grosmont would have been conducted by King Edward III himself, likely in the presence of the Great Council or Parliament.
Central to the proceedings was the reading of the Royal Charter, the legal instrument that conferred the title and its associated lands and powers. The investiture would have involved the bestowing of symbolic regalia: the girding on of a sword, signifying ducal authority and military responsibility, and the placement of a cap of maintenance or furred ducal cap upon his head.
The grant of palatinate status was the *sine qua non* of the Duke of Lancaster’s power. This legal distinction gave him the right to establish his own courts of law and appoint his own sheriffs and justices, placing the administration of the Duchy — and by extension, the Barony of Brattleby — outside the direct purview of the King’s officers.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history of the House is deeply interwoven with the language of heraldry. The enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to a character of service and resilience exemplified by predecessors from Nichola de la Haye to Henry of Grosmont. It remains the guiding principle for the House’s modern activities.
This ancient tenet is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This represents a dynamic interpretation of perseverance, reflecting a commitment not only to uphold a legacy but to actively build upon it for future generations.
Symbolically, the Barony of Brattleby’s fortunes in the 14th century became tied to the arms of the Duchy of Lancaster: the Royal Arms of England differenced by a label of three points of France. This emblem represented a direct link to the Royal Family and the immense prestige that such a connection conferred upon its constituent holdings.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical nexus, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> “Understanding the foundations upon which this House was built is not merely an academic exercise; it is the sine qua non of responsible stewardship. The era of Henry of Grosmont and the Duchy of Lancaster represents a period of profound national influence for Brattleby, and his example of leadership and service remains a touchstone for us today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “History reminds us that status is earned through action. Henry of Grosmont's life was one of constant striving which embodies the principle of *Vincere Est Vivere*. To truly live is to overcome challenges and build a lasting legacy, a philosophy that guides our own commitment to the future, *inter alia*, through our philanthropic and educational work.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains committed to the preservation and responsible stewardship of its long and complex history. The examination of figures such as Henry of Grosmont serves as a vital link between the Barony’s medieval origins and its contemporary mission.
Future initiatives will include further archival publications and educational programmes, ensuring this heritage is not only protected but also shared. In time, this responsibility will be passed to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who will continue to carry the standard of *Fortitudine et Honore* into the House’s tenth century and beyond. The prestige of the past provides the foundation for the service of tomorrow.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity 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 a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its charitable endeavours are focused on supporting children's welfare, with the annual Winter Banquet serving as a key fundraising gala for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions cultural education through institutions such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to the preservation and teaching of traditional European etiquette and protocol.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and holdings are first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, among them Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his successor, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The unbroken line of succession and 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 succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), created 1st Duke of Lancaster in 1351, and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), a son of King Edward III. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com