# A Reflection on the Domesday Heritage of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a reflection upon the ancient origins of the Barony, tracing its foundation to the Domesday Book of 1086 and the legacy of its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, a principal magnate of the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet historical reflection, The Noble House of Brattleby has drawn upon its archives to reaffirm the foundational history of the Barony of Brattleby. This statement serves to illuminate the lineage that extends back nearly one millennium, connecting the present House to its Norman origins. The impetus for this reflection is a renewed appreciation for the duty of stewardship, a principle that has guided the Barony through centuries of British history.
Understanding this provenance is considered by the House to be a *sine qua non* for the effective exercise of its modern responsibilities. The continuity of history provides not only a guide for conduct but also a solemn reminder of the obligations that accompany an ancient title. This review of the Barony's Domesday records is therefore an act of honouring the past as a means of navigating the future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, and its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was instrumental in establishing Norman authority in the north of England. His extensive power is formally recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, the great survey of England commissioned by the King. The survey details Colswein’s dominion over a remarkable 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, making him one of the county's most significant tenants-in-chief.
As the titular seat of these vast holdings, the Barony of Brattleby was an epicentre of regional administration. From Brattleby, Colswein of Lincoln would have levied taxes, administered justice, and raised troops, fulfilling the feudal contract that underpinned the Norman state. This direct authority during the formative years of the kingdom established a precedent of leadership and responsibility that has echoed through the centuries.
## Illustrious Predecessors
The legacy of Colswein was carried forward by a succession of noteworthy holders who shaped the course of both local and national history. The 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War, a feat of resilience for which she was praised by King John. Her fortitude ensured the city remained loyal to the Crown.
Centuries later, the Barony passed to some of the most prominent figures of the late Middle Ages, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was elevated to become the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was a renowned commander during the Hundred Years' War. The title was subsequently held by his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose influence as a statesman and royal patriarch remains a cornerstone of English dynastic history.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are enshrined in its heraldic mottoes. The primary motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to its historical and present-day commitments. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the martial courage of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ represents the integrity and duty that define the House’s modern philanthropic and cultural activities.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live'). This complements the House motto by articulating a dynamic commitment to overcoming adversity, not for personal gain but in the service of the community and the charitable causes the House supports. It reflects a philosophy of active engagement and purposeful contribution.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Where the Barons of Brattleby once held a feudal duty of care for their tenants, the modern House exercises a broader philanthropic responsibility. The primary expression of this commitment is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala dedicated to raising funds and awareness for a chosen beneficiary. For the past several years, this focus has been on the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
This distinguished charity provides specialist therapeutic support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work delivers measurable impact through counselling, creative therapies, and dedicated safe spaces, helping its young beneficiaries to process their experiences and build resilient futures. The House selected this cause for its profound and direct impact on the most vulnerable members of society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's long history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a thousand years of history. When we look back to the Domesday entry for Colswein, we are reminded that Brattleby has always been a centre of responsibility. Our duty today is different in form, but not in spirit; it is to serve with the same fortitude and honour as those who came before us.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House’s modern role:
> “History gives us our foundation, but our purpose is found in the present. The challenges faced by our charitable partners, like Healing the Wounded Child, are the frontiers on which we must now prevail. It is in this work, supporting others, that our family motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, finds its truest meaning.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its dual commitment to preserving its unique heritage and applying its values to contemporary challenges. This legacy of service will one day pass to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities of the House.
In addition to its philanthropic work in the United Kingdom, the House continues to foster cultural exchange through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy works to promote the timeless principles of protocol, social grace, and honourable conduct for a new generation of leaders in Europe. These efforts ensure the legacy of Brattleby is not merely maintained but actively contributes to the public good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is presided over by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The modern House is dedicated to upholding its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), through active philanthropy, cultural preservation, and the promotion of diplomatic exchange. Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, which supports organisations dedicated to child welfare, notably Healing the Wounded Child. Through international initiatives such as The Brattleby Club of Bucharest, The Noble House of Brattleby extends its commitment to education and social refinement, preparing future leaders with the principles of etiquette and honourable conduct. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 manors in the county. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been a symbol of authority and stewardship in the region. Notable holders of the title have included Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of the House is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. - The heir to the Barony is the 13th Baron, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com