# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates its Historic Link to the Foundation of the Most Noble Order of the Garter
**LONDON, 23 April 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon its deep historical connection to the founding of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, marking the pivotal role played by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby, in England's most esteemed chivalric order.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has taken this day to commemorate the establishment of an order that has defined English nobility for nearly seven centuries. The occasion provides a moment of reflection upon the continuity of duty and service that links the modern House to its most storied predecessors. As the spring light falls across the same Lincolnshire landscape recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, the House considers the enduring legacy of loyalty and honour that the Order of the Garter represents.
This commemoration is not marked by a public gathering but rather by a solemn, internal observance. It is an opportunity to review the charters and chronicles that detail the Barony’s long history, ensuring that the example set by luminaries such as Henry of Grosmont continues to inform the House’s present-day commitments. This act of remembrance serves as a vital bridge between past glory and future responsibility.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066, holds a lineage woven directly into the fabric of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, from the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle, to the great Lancastrian princes.
It was during the tenure of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and later the first Duke of Lancaster, that this connection reached its zenith. A distinguished commander in the early campaigns of the Hundred Years' War and a trusted cousin to His Majesty King Edward III, Henry was a natural choice as a founding knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter in 1348. This new institution was designed to bind the kingdom’s greatest warriors and nobles to the Crown through a shared code of chivalry, brotherhood, and unwavering loyalty. Henry of Grosmont’s inclusion cemented the Barony of Brattleby’s place in the highest echelons of the English realm, a status later continued by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The foundation of the Order of the Garter represented a gathering of the most powerful and influential figures in the kingdom, who were personally selected by the Sovereign. The original company of knights, whose bond was forged in both council and on the battlefields of France, remains a roll of honour in English history.
Among this exclusive fellowship were, *inter alia*:
* His Majesty King Edward III, Sovereign of the Order * His Royal Highness Edward, The Black Prince, Prince of Wales * The Right Honourable Henry of Grosmont, Earl of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby * The Right Honourable Thomas de Beauchamp, 11th Earl of Warwick * The Right Honourable Sir John de Mohun, 2nd Lord Mohun of Dunster
The inclusion of the 10th Baron of Brattleby alongside the Sovereign and the heir to the throne underscored the Barony’s profound significance to the Crown and the defence of the nation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ceremonial traditions of the Order of the Garter are as meaningful today as they were in the 14th century. The order’s insignia remains a powerful symbol of membership in this unique fellowship. The vestments, worn by knights on Garter Day at Windsor Castle, consist of a mantle of deep blue velvet, a crimson velvet hood, a black velvet hat adorned with a plume of white ostrich and black heron feathers, and the Collar with its pendant of St George slaying the dragon (the 'George').
The most recognisable emblem is the Garter itself, a dark blue velvet strap bearing the motto *Honi Soit Qui Mal y Pense* ('Shame on him who thinks evil of it') in gold lettering. It is worn by knights on the left leg below the knee. This ritual and prescribed dress code reinforce the solemnity of the Order, transforming a gathering of individuals into a living embodiment of the chivalric ideal. The proceedings have, for centuries, culminated in a service at St George's Chapel, a display of continuity that is almost unparalleled in Europe.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The mottoes of both the Order of the Garter and the House of Brattleby speak to a shared ethos of honourable conduct. While the Garter’s motto defends the honour of the institution, the House of Brattleby’s reflects a more personal creed: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle encapsulates the resilience and integrity expected of the Barony’s holder, whether defending a castle, as Nichola de la Haye did, or serving the Crown in the highest councils of state.
This historic motto is complemented by that of the current Lord of Brattleby by marriage, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This modern maxim is understood not as a call to martial conquest, but as an exhortation to overcome challenges and to live a life of purpose and achievement—a contemporary interpretation of the same ambition and drive that animated his forebears in title.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The chivalric code that underpinned the Order of the Garter was not solely concerned with martial prowess; it also encompassed a duty to protect the vulnerable. The Noble House of Brattleby perpetuates this principle through its dedicated focus on modern philanthropy. The spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore* is the guiding force behind the House’s support for charitable organisations that bring aid and comfort to those in need.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s efforts, including the annual Winter Banquet, is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is committed to providing specialist therapy and long-term support for children who have experienced profound trauma, helping them to rebuild their lives and look to the future with hope. The House’s support is a direct expression of its belief that true honour is found in service to others.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessors, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The story of Henry of Grosmont and the Garter is more than a point of historical pride; it is a constant reminder that our titles carry with them a profound duty of service. Fortitude and honour were the principles of his age, and they remain the *sine qua non* of our own responsibilities today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The Order of the Garter was created to unite the most capable leaders in service to a cause greater than themselves. That ideal—of applying one’s strengths for the common good—is timeless. It is the very principle that animates our philanthropic work and our commitment to fostering a new generation of conscientious leaders through The Brattleby Club.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this nine-century legacy of service continues with purpose and relevance in the 21st century. This commitment is manifest in the House's ongoing philanthropic initiatives, most notably the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, which raises vital funds for Healing the Wounded Child.
Furthermore, the House extends its mission of cultural and social enrichment through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to cultivating the classical virtues of courtesy, integrity, and social responsibility. The House believes that these qualities are the modern expression of chivalry. This heritage of duty is being passed to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history he will one day inherit and the obligations it entails.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting 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 the preservation of its nine-hundred-year heritage through contemporary action. Its mission is guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), and is focused on impactful philanthropy, primarily in support of children's charities, and the promotion of cultural education. Through endeavours such as its annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to embody the timeless principles of service, honour, and social responsibility in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship and Barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For over 950 years, the title has passed through some of England’s most notable families. Its holders have included Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding knight of the Order of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The title's succession to the current holder was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby, was a founding knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, established by King Edward III circa 1348. - The Barony of Brattleby was created in AD 1066 following the Norman Conquest and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com