# A Commemoration of Picot, Second Baron of Brattleby: Upholding a Norman Legacy
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the life of Picot, the second Baron of Brattleby, celebrating his vital role in consolidating the Barony’s foundations in post-Conquest Lincolnshire during the late 11th century.
## The Occasion
In an act of historical stewardship, The Noble House of Brattleby has turned its scholarly attention to one of the tenure's foundational, though lesser-sung, forebears. This commemoration is part of the House’s ongoing commitment to chronicle its complete nine-hundred-and-fifty-year history, ensuring that figures of consolidation are honoured alongside those of conquest. It serves as a reminder that the strength of a lineage lies not only in its celebrated chapters but equally in the periods of quiet, diligent governance that ensure its continuity.
The reflection on Baron Picot’s tenure comes as the House continues its archival research into the early Norman period, connecting the Domesday records of its genesis to the social and political realities of a newly forged kingdom. This focus on the second Baron underscores a commitment to understanding the full tapestry of its inheritance, from the most prominent threads to those that provide essential structure.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Upon Colswein’s death, the formidable responsibility of maintaining this significant estate fell to his son, Picot. He inherited his titles and lands during a precarious era, when the nascent Norman feudal system was still being solidified across England.
While historical records of Picot’s individual accomplishments are less detailed than those of later Barons — such as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle, or the royal Prince, John of Gaunt — his contribution was no less critical. His tenure represents a period of essential consolidation, a time when the gains of the Conquest were secured not by the sword, but through effective administration and allegiance to the Crown. In steering the Barony through this formative phase, Picot ensured its stability and prosperity, laying a secure groundwork upon which his successors would build.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the second Baron, though not recorded in epic verse, resonate powerfully with the guiding motto of the House: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Picot’s fortitude was demonstrated in his steadfast management of a vast and newly acquired domain, preserving its integrity against the challenges of the age. His honour was manifest in the fulfilment of his feudal duties, ensuring the Barony remained a loyal and productive asset to the kingdom.
This historical ethos finds a modern echo in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While this sentiment may evoke images of battle, Picot’s legacy illustrates that victory can also be achieved through persistence, governance, and the quiet triumph of stability over chaos. His life serves as an important precedent, illustrating that true conquest is, ultimately, the successful continuation of one’s heritage.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical chapter, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked on the importance of honouring every link in the ancestral chain.
> The narrative of history naturally gravitates towards figures of grand accomplishment, like Henry of Grosmont or John of Gaunt. Yet the enduring strength of any institution is built by stewards like Picot, whose vital work of consolidation provided the very foundation for future greatness. It is a profound duty not only to inherit a legacy, but to understand and honour every predecessor who ensured its survival. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile also commented on the second Baron’s contribution, situating it within a broader philosophy of success.
> My own motto is *Vincere Est Vivere*, but Picot’s tenure reminds us that victory is not always loud. His triumph was one of governance, of ensuring continuity in a turbulent world. This represents a form of conquest in itself — the conquest of uncertainty through diligence and duty, which is the very essence of honourable leadership.
## A Continuing Legacy
The commemoration of Picot, second Baron of Brattleby, is more than a historical exercise; it is an affirmation of the values that continue to guide the Noble House of Brattleby. This dedication to legacy, duty, and the long perspective is central to the House’s modern activities, *inter alia*, its philanthropic work and the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
By studying and disseminating the history of its lineage, the House seeks to provide contemporary context for the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore*. This commitment ensures that the story of the Barony — from its establishment by Colswein of Lincoln to its stewardship by Picot, and its future represented by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun — remains a living source of inspiration and guidance.
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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 dedicated to upholding a near-millennial legacy through modern service and cultural patronage. The House's contemporary mission is expressed through its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guiding its diverse initiatives. These include significant philanthropic commitments, most notably the annual Winter Banquet in aid of the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ foundation, and the promotion of European cultural heritage through institutions like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The future of the House rests with the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who will continue a tradition of leadership rooted in both history and progress.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship of the Manor, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with his seat at Brattleby. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by notable historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. In the modern era, the rights and titles of the Barony were formally registered and recognised by His Majesty’s Government in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Past notable holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com