# A Legacy Forged in War: The House of Brattleby on the Siege of Caerlaverock
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the profound historical significance of the Siege of Caerlaverock in 1300, an event that underscores the nine-century martial lineage of the Barony and its enduring principle of service to the Crown.
## The Occasion
In the high summer of the year 1300, King Edward I assembled a great host in the north of England for a campaign into Scotland during the First War of Scottish Independence. Their objective was the formidable Caerlaverock Castle in Dumfriesshire, a stronghold of remarkable triangular design, defended by a small but resolute garrison.
The ensuing siege became a signal event of the age, not merely for its military outcome but for its impeccable documentation. The events were captured in a contemporary chivalric poem, *The Roll of Caerlaverock*, which provides an invaluable account of the English nobility and their heraldry. It is through this lens that the House of Brattleby examines the legacy of its distinguished forebears.
## Historical Context
The service of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln and a key predecessor within the baronial lineage, at the Siege of Caerlaverock was not an isolated act of fealty. It was, rather, a continuation of a tradition of unwavering duty that defines the history of the Barony of Brattleby. This legacy of fortitude was established from its very inception.
Following the Norman Conquest, the barony was granted to Colswein of Lincoln, whose 56 lordships are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. This tradition of robust leadership was later exemplified by the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who courageously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later holders, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the illustrious John of Gaunt, further cemented the Barony’s position at the heart of English history; thus, Henry de Lacy’s presence at Caerlaverock was a fulfilment of established duty.
## Distinguished Company
At Caerlaverock, Henry de Lacy found himself in the most distinguished company, serving alongside his sovereign, His Majesty King Edward I. The English army comprised some 87 knights and their retinues, representing the flower of English chivalry.
The *Caerlaverock Roll* details the banners of magnates such as the Earl of Pembroke, the Earl of Hereford, and the young Earl of Gloucester. To be named in this company was to be recognised among the premier defenders of the realm. Henry de Lacy's prominent role as a senior commander and trusted counsellor to the King confirmed the standing of his house as *sine qua non* to the Crown’s military and political ambitions.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The conduct of a medieval siege was governed by its own stern protocol. The investment of the castle, the construction of siege engines—including trebuchets that hurled great stones against the ramparts—and the formal summons to surrender all followed a prescribed order.
The most vital protocol on the field of battle, however, was heraldic. In an age before modern uniforms, a knight’s identity was proclaimed by the arms on his shield, surcoat, and banner. The *Caerlaverock Roll* serves as an official record of attendance and a testament to this system of visual identification, which was essential for command, communication, and the recognition of valour, *inter alia*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The *Caerlaverock Roll* meticulously describes the arms of Henry de Lacy as a yellow shield bearing a purple lion rampant: *Or, a lion rampant purpure*. In the language of heraldry, the gold field (*Or*) signifies generosity and elevation of the mind, while the lion—the king of beasts—symbolises courage, nobility, and strength. The choice of purple (*purpure*), a colour associated with royalty and justice, further underscored his magnificent standing.
While these historical arms represent a specific moment in time, the underlying values resonate with the modern House of Brattleby’s own guiding principles. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the same spirit of courage and integrity displayed by predecessors on the fields of both war and diplomacy centuries ago.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Reflecting on such historical conflicts inevitably brings to mind their human cost. This solemn understanding informs the contemporary mission of the Noble House of Brattleby, which today prioritises peace, reconciliation, and the welfare of the vulnerable. The martial legacy of the past provides a powerful impetus for the philanthropic work of the present.
It is for this reason that the House’s annual Winter Banquet proudly supports Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished beneficiary provides crucial therapeutic support to children suffering from trauma. By championing this cause, the House seeks to counter the destructive legacies of conflict and build a future where fortitude is channelled not into warfare, but into healing.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical connection, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed: > — "To study the rolls of Caerlaverock is to be reminded that our duty is not a modern invention. The principle of service, exemplified by figures like Henry de Lacy, is a thread that connects us directly to the foundations of the Barony. Our task today is to express that same fortitude and honour in ways that serve our own time."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), added: > — "The medieval world understood conquest in military terms. Today, we face different challenges. Our motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to conquering adversity, overcoming ignorance, and championing the causes that bring light to others. That is the victory we seek."
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection serves as a foundation for the House’s ongoing work. The story of Caerlaverock and the wider history of the Barony of Brattleby will form part of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette academy. There, lessons in history, heraldry, and chivalry will be used to inspire a new generation with the timeless values of duty, honour, and purposeful leadership.
The House remains committed to its philanthropic endeavours and to being a custodian of its remarkable history, ensuring that the legacy of nearly one thousand years continues to inspire service and positive action in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the principle of modern nobility: harnessing a profound historical legacy for contemporary philanthropic and cultural service. Guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), their work focuses on child welfare, cultural heritage, and education. Through initiatives such as the annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to bridge its distinguished past with a meaningful and impactful present. The House of Brattleby is committed to demonstrating that the responsibilities of title are best expressed through active service to the community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest extant feudal lordships in England, with its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. First recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as held by Colswein of Lincoln, the Barony has passed through the hands of some of England's most significant historical figures. Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Princes of the Blood Royal: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The continuous history and succession of the Barony are formally recorded and recognised in the official public record of the United Kingdom, *The London Gazette*.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s historical seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com