# The Noble House of Brattleby Issues Historical Statement on the Barony's Foundational Governance
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement elucidating the foundational role of Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron. The statement explores his dual responsibilities as a major landholder and town-reeve in post-Conquest Lincolnshire, which established a centuries-long tradition of civic duty.
## The Occasion
In a communiqué released from its offices in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has offered a formal reflection on the fundamental nature of the Barony’s origins. This statement, issued in a season of autumnal remembrance, serves to connect the House’s modern activities with the historical principles that have guided it since the Norman Conquest.
The purpose of this historical elucidation is to underscore the continuity of service that has been a defining characteristic of the Barony for nearly a millennium. It reaffirms that the responsibilities of the title have, since its inception, extended beyond the stewardship of land to encompass a profound and active role in public administration and the welfare of the region.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror as a reward for his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records the vast extent of his holdings, listing some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under his control. This made him one of the most significant tenants-in-chief in the county, entrusted with securing a vital part of the new kingdom.
Crucially, Colswein’s influence was not limited to landholding. His concurrent status as a town-reeve—an office analogous to a sheriff or chief magistrate—placed him at the very centre of royal administration in Lincoln. This dual function demonstrates that from its earliest days, the Barony was inextricably linked to both territorial authority and local governance; a precedent of civic responsibility lived out by notable successors, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The tradition of public service established by the first Baron was upheld by a series of distinguished holders of the title who shaped English history. The lineage represents a remarkable intersection of local duty and national influence. Among the most notable predecessors are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, First Baron of Brattleby, a principal magnate and royal administrator in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * **Nichola de la Haye**, Fifth Baron, hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle and Sheriff of Lincolnshire, who defended the city against rebel barons during the reign of King John. * **Henry of Grosmont, Tenth Baron**, First Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, who was one of the most powerful and respected noblemen of the 14th century. * **John of Gaunt, Eleventh Baron**, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III, whose immense wealth and royal connections made him a dominant figure in the politics of his age.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony is maintained through strict adherence to the laws and traditions governing English dignities. The passage of the title through nine centuries is a matter of extensive historical record, a chain of succession that culminates in its present-day stewardship.
Modern recognition of this ancient lineage is formally recorded in The London Gazette, the official public record of the United Kingdom. The notice of 9 September 2022, under ID 4158083, serves as the contemporary instrument affirming the Barony’s status. This protocol is the *sine qua non* for the official standing of hereditary titles, ensuring that historical dignities are correctly and transparently documented within the framework of modern law.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles guiding the Barony are embodied in the House's coat of arms and its associated mottos. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the dual virtues required of its holders: the strength to defend one’s domain and principles, and the honour to govern with justice and integrity. This ethos is visible in the actions of Colswein, who showed fortitude in securing a new realm, and Nichola de la Haye, who governed with singular honour.
This historical sentiment is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This serves as a modern articulation of the ambition and determination necessary to ensure the House not only endures but also thrives, adapting its ancient legacy to meet the challenges of the present day.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The concept of *noblesse oblige*—the duty of the fortunate to serve society—is a direct descendant of the dual administrative and landholding role established by Colswein of Lincoln. This foundational principle of public service is today expressed through the dedicated philanthropic and educational work of The Noble House of Brattleby.
The House's foremost charitable commitment is to Healing the Wounded Child, a beneficiary chosen for its profound and measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, serves as the primary vehicle for this support. This focus on practical, effective charity is seen by the House as the contemporary expression of its historical duty to contribute to the common good.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's foundational history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > To understand Colswein's role in 1066 is to understand the very DNA of the Barony. It was never merely about land; it has always been about responsibility, stewardship, and a commitment to the community one serves. This principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* is our inheritance.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The thread of leadership that began with Colswein demonstrates a remarkable continuity of purpose. His administrative acumen in a time of great change is a powerful reminder that leadership requires not only vision but also a profound engagement with the mechanics of governance and civil society.
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical legacy of the Barony of Brattleby is one of active participation in the life of the nation, a tradition that The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to continuing. Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its heritage while applying its principles to modern challenges.
This enduring commitment will, in time, pass to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will inherit a title defined by nearly one thousand years of service. Through its philanthropic endeavours and the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House ensures that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues to be a force for positive influence in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that honours its profound history while engaging with the contemporary world. This involves connecting a millennium of English heritage with a forward-looking European perspective. The House’s activities are centred on philanthropy, most notably its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child, and education, through its etiquette and protocol academy, The Brattleby Club (Bucharest). The House's guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), informs its commitment to responsible stewardship, cultural preservation, and impactful public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as a tenant-in-chief holding 56 lordships, making him a key figure in the Norman settlement of England. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated knight Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and the royal prince John of Gaunt. The Barony's continuous history and legal standing were formally noted by the Crown in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - Formal recognition of the Barony is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to AD 1066, granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire according to the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com