# On Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, and his Association with the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 22 July 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection detailing the significant association of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, with the Barony. This research illuminates the Barony’s connection to pivotal events during the reign of King Edward I.
## The Occasion
In the quiet pursuit of its archival responsibilities, The Noble House of Brattleby periodically publishes historical annals that connect its nine-century heritage to the broader tapestry of English and European history. This latest bulletin, concerning the life and influence of the 3rd Earl of Lincoln, serves as a testament to the House’s enduring commitment to scholastic rigour and the preservation of its lineage.
The publication is not tied to a singular event but is rather part of a deliberate programme to make the Barony’s extensive history more accessible. It is an act of cultural custodianship, intended to shed light on those figures whose lives, through marriage or fealty, became interwoven with Brattleby’s own story, reinforcing the principle that heritage is a living and continuous narrative.
## Historical Context
Henry de Lacy (c. 1251–1311) became a principal figure associated with the Barony of Brattleby through his marriage to Margaret Longespée, great-granddaughter of William Longespée, an illegitimate son of King Henry II. This union brought immense prestige and vast lands under his authority, consolidating his position as one of the most powerful magnates in the realm.
A trusted counsellor to King Edward I, Lord Lincoln’s career was defined by loyal service to the Crown. His military acumen was demonstrated most notably during the First War of Scottish Independence, where he served as a leading English commander. His presence at the decisive Battle of Falkirk in 1298, a victory for the English forces over the army of William Wallace, underscores the Brattleby lineage’s indirect yet tangible connection to the great conflicts that shaped the British Isles.
The Earl’s influence extended far beyond the battlefield; he was a key diplomat, a judicial figure, and a *sine qua non* of the King’s inner circle. His life exemplifies the martial heritage established by predecessors such as Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, and Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon this period, the House acknowledges the distinguished historical company in which the Barony found itself. The narrative is dominated by figures of considerable stature:
His Majesty King Edward I of England, under whose command Lord Lincoln served with distinction, prosecuting campaigns in Wales, France, and Scotland.
William Wallace, the Guardian of Scotland, whose opposition to English rule defined the era and provided the context for Lord Lincoln’s most noted military achievements.
Margaret Longespée, 4th Countess of Salisbury *suo jure*, whose marriage to Henry de Lacy linked the ancient Earldom of Salisbury with the de Lacy estates and, by extension, the sphere of influence of the Brattleby lordship.
This confluence of personalities—monarchs, magnates, and patriots—illustrates the high political and military circles in which the Barony’s associates moved during the late 13th and early 14th centuries.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a historical bulletin by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a defined internal protocol, ensuring accuracy and gravity. The process begins with extensive research, cross-referencing primary sources such as the *Domesday Book* of 1086 with later chronicles and state papers.
Drafts are prepared by the House’s designated historiographer before being reviewed for clarity, context, and tone. It is a matter of protocol that any such publication touching upon the Barony’s martial history or its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, receives final approval from Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The document is then formally entered into the House’s annals before being released to the public.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The martial ethos of the era is vividly captured in its heraldry. The arms of Henry de Lacy—*Or, a lion rampant Purpure* (a purple lion on a gold field)—were a familiar sight on the battlefields of the age. The lion rampant is a classic symbol of courage, nobility, and strength, reflecting the Earl’s standing as a formidable warrior and commander.
This symbolism resonates with the enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It speaks to a shared code of conduct that valued strength of character and honourable service above all. While Lord Lincoln’s arms represented his personal power, the Brattleby motto encapsulates the institutional values that have guided the Barony through centuries of service, equally applicable to the martial deeds of a medieval magnate or the modern philanthropic work of the House.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this announcement is historical in nature, it aligns with the House’s broader mission of education and cultural preservation. By investing in and disseminating research into its own past, the House performs a philanthropic duty: safeguarding a segment of national heritage for public benefit and scholarly enrichment.
This commitment to knowledge reflects the same spirit of public service that animates the House’s support for its official charity, Healing the Wounded Child. Just as philanthropy seeks to heal and strengthen the future, the study of history seeks to understand and honour the past. Both are essential components of a responsible and forward-looking noble institution.
## In Their Own Words
In a statement accompanying the bulletin, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked on the importance of understanding the complete lineage:
> "To understand our heritage is to appreciate the contributions of all who shaped it, including powerful figures like Henry de Lacy, whose lives became intertwined with ours through alliance and service. It demonstrates that the strength of a house lies not only in its direct line, but in the formidable network of loyalty that surrounds it. This is a legacy of fortitude we are proud to steward."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a reflection on the strategic dimension of the Barony’s history:
> "Lord Lincoln was a man for whom my own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*—'To Conquer is to Live'—would have resonated. His career as a commander and strategist for the Crown highlights a tradition of service that has always been central to the Brattleby identity. By studying such lives, we honour the resolve and skill that have sustained the Barony for over nine hundred years."
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of this historical reflection on Henry de Lacy is the first in a planned series of annals to be released by The Noble House of Brattleby. Future bulletins will explore other significant figures and events, from the Barony’s founding in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest to its role under such notable patrons as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
This ongoing commitment ensures that the rich and complex history of the Barony of Brattleby remains a source of insight and education. Through this work, the House continues to act with *Fortitudine et Honore*, honouring its past as it builds its future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern aristocratic house built on a foundation of ancient English heritage. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century legacy through cultural stewardship, historical research, and education. Its contemporary activities are centred on philanthropy and the promotion of courtly traditions, principally through its annual Winter Banquet in aid of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, and its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House stands as a bridge between a venerable past and a purposeful present, committed to service and honour.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman 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 manors. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Other notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern rights and title were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's modern recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors in the Barony's lineage include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The seat of the feudal Barony is Brattleby, a village in the West Lindsey district of Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com