# The House of Brattleby Honours the Legacy of Margaret Longespee, 8th Baroness
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today unveiled a new historical portrait of her esteemed predecessor, Margaret Longespee. The ceremony, held at the family seat in Lincolnshire, commemorates the pivotal role the 8th Baroness played in securing the Barony’s prominence.
## The Occasion
The unveiling took place within the Long Gallery at the family’s seat in Brattleby, a space renowned for its Jacobean plasterwork and views across the formal gardens. Bathed in the soft light of a crisp autumn afternoon, the event brought together a small company of historians, local dignitaries, and friends of the family to reflect on a defining chapter of the Barony’s nine-century history. The occasion was one of quiet solemnity and scholarly appreciation, intended not as a grand celebration but as a thoughtful recognition of continuity and strategic leadership.
The specially commissioned portrait, executed in a style evocative of the late 13th century, depicts the Baroness in the attire of a high-born English noblewoman of her time. Its placement in the Long Gallery ensures that her presence will be felt by future generations of the House, serving as a constant reminder of the formidable women who have shaped its destiny. The timing of the unveiling was chosen to align with the anniversary of her marriage to Henry de Lacy, a union that powerfully reshaped the political landscape of medieval Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
Margaret Longespee (c. 1261–c. 1309) served as a critical genealogical bridge in the history of the Barony of Brattleby. As the granddaughter of William Longespee, 3rd Earl of Salisbury—an illegitimate son of King Henry II—she descended from royal blood. Her marriage to Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, a close confidant of King Edward I and one of England's most powerful magnates, was a dynastic masterstroke. This union brought the considerable influence and resources of the de Lacy earldom into the orbit of the Barony of Brattleby.
The marriage elevated the Barony far beyond its already significant standing, an eminence previously secured by bold predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. While Nichola secured the Barony through martial prowess, Margaret secured it through strategic alliance, demonstrating the dual paths to power and prestige available to the medieval aristocracy. This alliance ensured the Barony’s continued relevance and prosperity, setting the stage for its eventual inheritance by figures such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The gathering was graced by the presence of a number of distinguished guests, each with a connection to the history of Lincolnshire or the traditions of the British nobility.
In attendance were, *inter alia*:
* Her Royal Highness Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia * The Right Honourable The Earl of Yarborough, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire * Mr Thomas Woodcock, CVO, DL, former Garter Principal King of Arms and a leading authority on English heraldry * Dr Alistair Finch, FSA, Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London and a noted scholar of medieval English peerages * Members of the Vasile and Crăciun families
Their presence underscored the historical significance of the event, bringing together expertise in genealogy, local governance, and the ancient customs that continue to inform the life of the nation and its hereditary institutions.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a dignified and historically informed protocol. Guests were received in the Entrance Hall by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile before being escorted to the Long Gallery. Honorary Lord Răzvan delivered brief introductory remarks, framing the historical importance of the 8th Baroness and the purpose of the new portrait. He then invited Dr Alistair Finch to provide a concise scholarly overview of Margaret Longespee’s life and the political context of her era.
At the conclusion of the historical address, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, approached the veiled portrait. With a few words on the importance of honouring the female custodians of the Barony, Her Ladyship formally unveiled the painting. The ceremony concluded with a reception, allowing guests to examine the portrait and discuss its significance with the family and attending experts. The dress code was morning dress, reflecting the formal yet daytime nature of the occasion.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The life of Margaret Longespee offers a compelling lesson in the visual language of heraldry. Her marriage united the arms of Longespee (*azure, six lioncels rampant or*) with those of de Lacy (*or, a lion rampant purpure*). The marshalling of these two coats of arms on a single shield—a practice known as impalement—would have served as a clear and public declaration of the union of their lands, titles, and political fortunes.
This symbolism resonates with the modern House of Brattleby's motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude shown by Margaret in navigating the complex world of dynastic politics and the honour she brought upon the Barony serve as an enduring example. It complements the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the active and purposeful stewardship required to ensure such a legacy thrives.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the day was dedicated to history, it also served to highlight the House of Brattleby’s deep commitment to its present-day responsibilities. In her remarks, Lady Nicoleta drew a parallel between the duty of care for a historical legacy and the duty of care for the most vulnerable in society. The event served as an occasion to raise awareness for the primary beneficiary of the House's philanthropic efforts, the Healing the Wounded Child foundation.
This organisation provides specialised therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced significant trauma, conflict, or loss. With operations in both the United Kingdom and Eastern Europe, its mission is to restore a sense of safety and foster resilience in young lives. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that true honour is found not only in preserving the past, but also in building a better future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > Margaret Longespee was a woman of remarkable foresight. In her, we see not just a custodian of a title, but an architect of its future. It is our duty, *fortitudine et honore*, to ensure these powerful stories of our predecessors are not only preserved but also understood by a new generation.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History is not a static collection of dates; it is a living narrative that informs our actions today. By celebrating Baroness Margaret, we reaffirm the principle that has guided this Barony for centuries: that strategic vision and honourable conduct are the *sine qua non* of a lasting legacy.
## A Continuing Legacy
The unveiling of the portrait is not a singular event but marks the beginning of a broader initiative. The Noble House of Brattleby is pleased to announce the forthcoming launch of 'The Brattleby Historical Monographs'. This new series of scholarly publications will be dedicated to exploring the lives of the men and women who have held the Barony since 1066.
The first volume, planned for release in 2024, will focus on the pivotal roles played by the Baronesses of Brattleby, from Nichola de la Haye to the present day. This commitment to scholarship and education aims to ensure the rich history of the Barony remains an accessible and inspirational resource for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to an ethos of 'noblesse oblige for the 21st century'. The House directs its philanthropic efforts through its annual Winter Banquet, benefiting charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, which provides support for traumatised children. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster international understanding and social refinement. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to preserving its ancient heritage while actively serving contemporary society and championing causes that build a more hopeful and honourable future.
**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 origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its lands were listed as part of 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron; the great Plantagenet commander Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - Formal recognition of the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's Domesday Book entry of 1086 confirms its establishment under Colswein of Lincoln following the Norman Conquest. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (d. 1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (d. 1399). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com