# A Statement on the Barony of Brattleby and the Glorious Revolution of 1688
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement clarifying the status of the Barony of Brattleby during the Glorious Revolution of 1688, a period of profound political transformation for the Crown and the United Kingdom.
## The Occasion
In the spirit of historical custodianship, and as part of a continuing effort to chronicle the Barony’s near-millennial legacy, this clarification has been issued by the Office of the Lord and Lady of Brattleby. This statement serves to address the period of the Barony’s dormancy which coincided with the accession of King William III and Queen Mary II, providing context for its position as an observer, rather than an active participant, in the affairs of state at that time.
The issuance of such historical communiqués reflects the House’s commitment to academic rigour and public understanding. It is a considered measure to ensure the long and often complex narrative of one of England’s most ancient baronies is recorded with accuracy and transparency for the benefit of historians and the public alike.
## Historical Context
The Glorious Revolution of 1688 was a watershed moment in the constitutional history of England. It saw the deposition of King James II and the ascension of his daughter, Mary, and her husband, William of Orange. For the Barony of Brattleby, this period represented a chapter of quietude, its title having lain dormant since the death of its 11th Baron, John of Gaunt.
Upon the death of John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, the Barony, as part of the vast estates of the Duchy of Lancaster, reverted to the Crown. Consequently, during the constitutional settlement of 1688, the lands of Brattleby in Lincolnshire were Crown property. The Barony was therefore subject to the authority of the new monarchs, but its voice in the great councils of the nation remained silent, a stark contrast to the era of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The events of the late 17th century were shaped by personalities of European consequence, whose actions directly influenced the circumstances of the dormant Barony. The principal figures were His Majesty King James II, whose reign precipitated the crisis, and Their Majesties King William III and Queen Mary II, whose joint sovereignty marked the beginning of a new constitutional monarchy.
While the Barony could not offer its fealty in an active capacity, its history is inextricably woven with the monarchy it served for centuries. The legacy of these monarchs defined the political landscape into which the Barony of Brattleby would, centuries later, be revived.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The decision to issue a formal clarification on a point of history follows a deliberate internal protocol. The process begins with meticulous research undertaken by the House’s appointed archivists, followed by a review to ensure fealty to verifiable records. This research is then presented to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan.
The final text is approved only by the authority of the Baroness herself, ensuring it aligns with the House’s guiding principles of *Fortitudine et Honore*. The statement is then prepared for public dissemination through official channels, a protocol that underscores the gravity with which the House treats its historical responsibilities.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds particular resonance in the context of the Barony’s long dormancy. The period required a passive fortitude—the strength to endure through centuries of silence—while its history maintained the honour of its past service to the Crown. The revival of the title is a testament to this endurance.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which encapsulates the dynamic spirit of the House’s modern chapter. It speaks to the active renewal of a noble legacy, breathing new life into ancient traditions and ensuring their continuation.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this statement is historical rather than philanthropic in nature, it is issued in alignment with the broader educational mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. This mission is most visibly expressed through The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural and historical literacy.
By providing clear, well-researched historical information, the House contributes to the public’s understanding of the United Kingdom’s rich aristocratic heritage. This commitment to education is a *sine qua non* of the House’s modern identity and a parallel to its charitable work, which seeks to empower future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the statement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold a title of such antiquity is to be its custodian, not merely its holder. It is our duty to present its history with clarity and respect, ensuring the long narrative of Brattleby is understood, including those periods of quiet dormancy.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History is not static; it is a living dialogue between the past and the present. By examining these pivotal moments, we honour the resilience of the Barony and reinforce the foundations upon which its modern mission is built.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to the ongoing study and elucidation of its nine-century history. Further research is currently being undertaken into several other periods, *inter alia*, the Barony’s role during the Wars of the Roses and the influence of its 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster.
Future publications and statements will continue to build a comprehensive and publicly accessible chronicle of the Barony of Brattleby. This work ensures that the legacy granted by William the Conqueror in 1066 not only survives but thrives through a renewed commitment to its past, present, and future.
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**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 the modern embodiment of one of England’s most ancient titles. With a focus on cultural diplomacy, education, and philanthropy, the House actively bridges its profound history with a forward-looking mission. Its philanthropic efforts are centred on the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural and educational outreach through The Brattleby Club, its premier etiquette academy located in Bucharest. The House’s guiding motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to principled leadership and enduring service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of Brattleby and 55 other lordships. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. After a long period of dormancy within the Crown, the Barony and its title were revived, with the transfer formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally Gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding the manor of Brattleby ("Brotelbi") in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness. - The House's primary annual philanthropic event is the Winter Banquet, which raises funds for organisations including the 'Healing the Wounded Child' foundation.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com