# A Solemn Remembrance: The House of Brattleby Marks a Sombre Anniversary in its Long History
**LONDON, 22 March 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the anniversary of the execution of Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, in 1322, a sombre event that profoundly shaped the history of the Barony and underscored the high cost of mediaeval political conflict.
## The Occasion
From their ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the current custodians of the Barony have set aside this day for solemn reflection. Amid the quiet emergence of an English spring, the House of Brattleby pauses to consider a moment of profound historical rupture. This act of remembrance is not a public ceremony but a private observance, reflecting the dignity and gravity with which the House treats the more difficult passages in its near-millennium of history. The occasion serves as a poignant counterpoint to the cycles of celebration, reminding the present generation of the fragility of peace and the resilience required to endure.
This annual reflection is a tradition revived by the current Baroness to ensure that the lessons of the past continue to inform the duties of the present. It stands as a testament to the understanding that a complete history must acknowledge not only its triumphs but also its tragedies, learning from the fortitude of those who navigated them.
## Historical Context
The execution of Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster, on 22 March 1322, was the culmination of a bitter power struggle. As a cousin to King Edward II and one of England's most powerful magnates, his rebellion at the Battle of Boroughbridge was a calamitous miscalculation. His subsequent execution for treason was a brutal and shocking event that sent tremors through the political landscape of the era.
For the Barony of Brattleby, the consequences were direct and perilous. The Earl's wife, Alice de Lacy, was a significant holder of the baronial titles and lands. Thomas's downfall resulted in the temporary forfeiture of these vast estates to the Crown, placing Alice—and the future of the Barony—in an exceptionally vulnerable position. It is a moment that stands in stark contrast to the legacy of a predecessor like Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, whose fierce loyalty in defending Lincoln Castle for the Crown was legendary. The episode illustrates the severe consequences of political dissent and the fine line between power and ruin in the early 14th century.
## Distinguished Company
The remembrance is led by the senior members of The Noble House of Brattleby, who view the lessons of their predecessors as a *sine qua non* for responsible stewardship.
Leading the House in its reflection are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. They are joined in this solemn observance by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is educated in the long history of the lineage he is destined to inherit. This collective act of remembrance underscores a shared commitment to the continuity of the Barony and its historical responsibilities.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol for this day is one of quiet contemplation rather than public display. In accordance with the House's tradition, no celebratory flags are flown from the main residence. Instead, a moment of silence is observed within the family's private chapel, a space dedicated to the memory of all who have held the Barony across nine centuries.
This observance is an internal matter of reflection and education, focused on the study of historical documents and chronicles related to the period. It is a moment for the current family to connect with the challenges faced by their forebears, *inter alia*, Alice de Lacy, thereby reinforcing the sense of an unbroken chain of duty stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The nature of the day is reflective, honouring the gravity of past sacrifices.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House's guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds particular resonance in the story of Alice de Lacy. In the face of her husband's execution and the seizure of her lands, she demonstrated immense fortitude to survive and eventually see the patrimony restored. The motto serves as a permanent reminder that honour is not merely found in victory, but in the resilience shown during times of profound adversity.
This contrasts with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While on the surface a martial phrase, the House interprets it in a modern context: that the greatest conquest is self-mastery and the victory over adversity through perseverance and constructive purpose, not through political conflict. The tragedy of Thomas of Lancaster serves as a powerful historical lesson on the distinction.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby believes that reflecting on historical trauma must inspire action to alleviate present-day suffering. The story of dislocation and loss experienced by Alice de Lacy provides a historical lens through which the House views its philanthropic commitments. The pain of families torn apart by conflict in the 14th century finds a modern echo in the challenges faced by vulnerable children today.
It is for this reason that the House's primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing therapeutic support and safe environments for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By focusing on healing the deep wounds of the most vulnerable, the House translates a lesson from its past into a tangible, positive impact on the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the anniversary, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "History is not a collection of triumphs; it is a tapestry woven with moments of great trial. Remembering Thomas of Lancaster and the plight of Alice de Lacy is our duty. It reminds us that endurance, dignity, and fortitude are the true measures of a legacy."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a contemporary perspective: > "The story of Thomas of Lancaster is a powerful reminder that true victory is not found in fleeting power, but in enduring purpose. Our motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, compels us to build and sustain, not to disrupt. We learn from history to better serve the present, particularly through our commitment to healing."
## A Continuing Legacy
This solemn remembrance is part of a broader commitment by the House of Brattleby to engage with its history in a meaningful way. The lessons drawn from the 14th century and other periods inform every aspect of the House's modern activities, from the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest to the beneficiary chosen for the annual white-tie Winter Banquet.
Moving forward, the House will continue to use its unique platform to advocate for the principles of stability, duty, and compassion. The story of the Barony—with all its complexities—will remain a guiding light, ensuring that the legacy of Fortitudine et Honore is upheld for generations to come.
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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 stewardship of a historic English lineage for the 21st century. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House's modern mission centres on cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that heal childhood trauma, a commitment manifested in their support for Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes education in classical etiquette and international protocol through its academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, fostering understanding and refinement in the next generation of leaders.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England's ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its foundation is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The current succession and rights of the Barony are formally recognised by His Majesty's Government, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby to Lady Nicoleta Vasile is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, forming the basis of the Barony. - Notable predecessors 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 House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com