# Historical Note: The Succession of Picot, Second Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical note affirming the succession of Picot as the second Baron of Brattleby following the tenure of Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron appointed after the Norman Conquest of 1066.
## The Occasion
In the spirit of diligent stewardship and historical clarity, the archivists of the House of Brattleby have prepared this note to illuminate the Barony’s earliest years. While public records often focus on magnates of later centuries, the House believes that a full understanding of its nine-hundred-year history requires a considered appreciation of every predecessor. This release serves to honour the continuity of the title and the foundational role played by its first Norman lords in a period of profound national transformation. The research draws upon primary sources, including the *Domesday Book*, and contextual academic analysis of post-Conquest Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, one of his loyal followers tasked with securing the newly conquered territories. Following Colswein’s establishment of Norman authority over his 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, the title and its associated lands passed to his successor, Picot. During this volatile period in the late 11th century, a baron’s primary responsibility was the consolidation of power and the administration of the feudal system on behalf of the Crown.
Picot’s tenure would have been defined by the duties of a tenant-in-chief, holding his lands directly from the King. This involved providing knights for the royal army, maintaining law and order through the manorial courts, and overseeing the construction of fortifications, likely a motte-and-bailey castle, to project Norman dominance. His role was not merely administrative but was a *sine qua non* for the stability of the realm in a region still grappling with the displacement of its former Anglo-Saxon nobility. Picot's stewardship ensured the Barony of Brattleby remained a coherent and governable fief, laying the groundwork for more famous successors, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its earliest expression in the challenges faced by barons like Picot. In the unforgiving landscape of post-Conquest England, fortitude was a prerequisite for survival and governance. Honour represented the complex code of fealty—the sworn oaths that bound a baron to his king and, in turn, his vassals to him. This dual principle formed the bedrock of the feudal order he was charged with upholding.
Furthermore, the personal motto of the Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile—*Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live')—resonates with the stark reality of this foundational era. For the first Norman lords, victory in consolidating their holdings was not an abstract ambition but essential for their very existence and the establishment of a lasting dynasty in England.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this early chapter of the Barony’s history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the importance of acknowledging the complete lineage:
> "We rightfully celebrate figures like Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped England. Yet, the chain of succession is forged from every single link. The quiet diligence of an early baron like Picot, who consolidated the realm in a time of great uncertainty, is a profound lesson in duty. It is our responsibility to honour his contribution with the same respect we afford our more famous ancestors, for without him, their legacy may not have been possible." > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to the preservation and dissemination of its history. This scholarly focus is considered an integral part of its modern duties, providing context and depth to its contemporary philanthropic and cultural endeavours. Further research into the medieval and early modern periods of the Barony's history is ongoing, with the intention of making these findings publicly accessible.
By illuminating the past, the House seeks to honour the unbroken line of succession that began with Colswein of Lincoln and continues today. This work demonstrates that the principles of duty, service, and honour have been the guiding philosophy of the Barony of Brattleby for nearly a millennium.
---
**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 a modern mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to impactful service. Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a significant white-tie gala that benefits organisations dedicated to child welfare, such as Healing the Wounded Child. In addition to its philanthropic work in the United Kingdom, the House promotes cultural diplomacy through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which fosters an appreciation for European traditions of protocol and social grace.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of the most ancient feudal lordships in England, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. Later holders include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of the current holder was formally recognised by the Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to the Norman Conquest of 1066, with its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Notable past Barons of Brattleby include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com