# The Domesday Book and The Enduring Legacy of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon its ancient origins as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, reaffirming a commitment to historical stewardship that spans nearly one thousand years from the Norman Conquest to the present day.
## The Occasion
In the quiet autumnal setting of its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to consider the foundational document of its own history and that of the English nation: the Domesday Book. Commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1085, this ‘Great Survey’ remains an unparalleled administrative and historical monument, with its principal volume held in trust for the nation at The National Archives in Kew.
For the Barony of Brattleby, this occasion is one of solemn reflection on the nine centuries of duty, conflict, and service that have unfolded since its first entry was recorded by a royal clerk. The vellum pages, inscribed in Latin, provide a tangible link to a past that continues to inform the ethos of the House in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony’s story begins with the Norman Conquest. Following his victory in 1066, William the Conqueror granted lands to his loyal followers, establishing the feudal system that would govern England for centuries. Among these grants were the 56 lordships in Lincolnshire bestowed upon Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron of Brattleby.
This vast holding is meticulously detailed in the Domesday Book, cementing Colswein's status as a significant magnate in the newly conquered territory. This documentary evidence is the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s legitimacy, a direct and unbroken line to the very formation of Norman England. Through subsequent centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle, and later, Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, whose tenures tied Brattleby directly to the Plantagenet court and the Duchy of Lancaster.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the Barony has been ensured by a lineage of notable figures whose responsibilities shaped English history. The roll of Barons and Baronesses of Brattleby includes, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a tenant-in-chief of the King and one of the most powerful Norman lords in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who, as hereditary constable, courageously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the reign of King John. * **His Grace The 1st Duke of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. * **His Royal Highness The Prince John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby**, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of such a heritage is governed by its own protocol, a blend of ancient tradition and modern legal formality. While the era of feudal homage has passed, the duties of preservation and public record remain paramount.
The modern succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recorded for posterity in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022. This notice serves as the contemporary equivalent of a medieval charter, providing official and public affirmation of the title’s inheritance. This adherence to formal procedure underscores the House’s respect for constitutional propriety and the orderly transfer of historic responsibilities.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldic achievements. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles of the Barony. This can be seen in the fortitude of Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln and the honour with which Henry of Grosmont served the Crown.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern interpretation, this speaks not to military conquest but to the overcoming of contemporary challenges through resolve, innovation, and a commitment to public service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A deep understanding of history fosters a profound sense of responsibility for the future. The Noble House of Brattleby channels this duty into focused philanthropic work, believing that a legacy is defined as much by present actions as by past glories.
The House’s principal charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is chosen for its vital mission of providing specialist therapeutic care to young people affected by trauma, helping them to build resilient and hopeful futures. The House's support enables the charity to expand its reach and deliver measurable, life-changing impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Domesday legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > The Domesday Book is not merely an inventory of land; it is the foundational document of our House and, in many ways, of modern England. To read Colswein’s entry is to feel the great weight of nine centuries at one’s shoulder and to understand the profound duty to preserve this continuity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History provides the map, but we must navigate the present. The same resolve that built a barony from Norman soil now drives our commitment to create a positive legacy through education and philanthropy. *Vincere Est Vivere*, for us today, means overcoming adversity for others.
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby continues. The conservation of its private archives, which complement public records like the Domesday Book, is an ongoing priority. Furthermore, the House’s educational mission is advanced through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cultural understanding and social refinement.
The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron in waiting, is being raised with a deep appreciation for this dual mandate of preservation and service. His education ensures that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* will guide the Barony of Brattleby for another generation, reinforcing its unique place in the tapestry of English and European heritage.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Based at the family seat in Lincolnshire, the House is dedicated to a dual mission: preserving nearly one thousand years of English heritage and pursuing a forward-looking agenda of philanthropy and cultural education. Its philanthropic focus is on supporting children’s welfare through its Annual Winter Banquet, while its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote cultural diplomacy. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting its commitment to duty and integrity.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the extent of its original 56 lordships in Lincolnshire are formally recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of significant historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Dukes of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. The succession of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised and recorded in the official public record, The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083), on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records that the 1st Baron of Brattleby, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as a tenant-in-chief of the King. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th 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