# A Noble Record: The Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby through the Houses of Longespee and de Lacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical clarification regarding the barony’s 13th-century lineage, affirming its continuity through the marriage of Margaret Longespee to Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, thereby preserving its connection to England’s highest nobility.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has released a formal archival statement clarifying a pivotal moment in its nearly thousand-year history. The announcement, prepared within the quietude of the House's library and archives, comes as part of an ongoing commitment to historical accuracy and the diligent stewardship of the barony’s extensive records.
This act of curatorial duty serves to illuminate the unbroken chain of the barony's prestige. It underscores how the title’s significance was maintained through strategic alliance and the remarkable fortitude of the medieval heiresses who guided its destiny, ensuring its prominence into the 14th century and beyond.
## Historical Context
First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 Lincolnshire lordships granted to Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the Barony of Brattleby has been intrinsically linked to the course of English history. Its legacy includes formidable holders such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, renowned for her spirited defence of Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217.
During the 13th century, the barony came into the possession of the powerful Longespee family, Earls of Salisbury, descended from an illegitimate son of King Henry II. The direct male line concluded with the passing of the earldom to Margaret Longespee, *suo jure* Countess of Salisbury. Her strategically important marriage to Lord Henry de Lacy, the 3rd Earl of Lincoln and a trusted advisor to King Edward I, ensured the Barony of Brattleby's continued association with a premier noble house.
Although the title ‘Earl of Salisbury’ ceased to be directly connected with the barony, the de Lacy alliance fortified its standing, acting as a crucial bridge to its later possession by towering figures of the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of this era is defined by personages of significant standing in the medieval court, whose lives were central to the barony’s transition. The principal figures of this historical record include:
* **William Longespee, 3rd Earl of Salisbury**, whose lineage connected the barony to Plantagenet royalty. * **The Right Honourable Margaret Longespee, Countess of Salisbury**, a great heiress whose marriage was a matter of state importance and preserved the family’s vast estates and influence. * **The Right Honourable Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln**, a chief counsellor to King Edward I and one of the most powerful magnates of his time, whose union with Lady Margaret brought Brattleby into the orbit of the Earldom of Lincoln.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a historical record by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a meticulous internal protocol. The process commences with extensive research conducted by the House’s appointed archivist, cross-referencing private records with public documents held at The National Archives and county-level repositories.
A draft record is then compiled and presented to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, for personal review and assent. Once approved, the clarification is formally entered into the official chronicle of the House. This protocol reflects a solemn duty to history and ensures that the barony’s narrative is preserved with precision and integrity for future generations.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring spirit of the House is captured in its Latin motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is exemplified by the barony’s successful navigation of dynastic shifts, demonstrating a resilience that has become a *sine qua non* of its identity.
This historical period also brought the barony into alignment with the heraldry of two great families: the six blue lions rampant of the Longespee Earls of Salisbury and the purple lion rampant of the de Lacy Earls of Lincoln. These symbols of martial strength and noble authority, while no longer formally associated with the barony, remain part of its rich historical tapestry. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), further complements this legacy, acknowledging the strategic vision required to sustain such a heritage.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby believes that understanding historical resilience provides valuable lessons for overcoming contemporary challenges. The fortitude shown by figures like Margaret Longespee in securing her legacy mirrors the strength the House seeks to foster through its philanthropic endeavours.
The primary beneficiary of the House's charitable activities, including the Annual Winter Banquet, is the 'Healing the Wounded Child' organisation. This registered charity provides essential therapeutic and emotional support to children affected by trauma, helping them build inner security and a foundation for a stable future. The House’s focus on its own unbroken lineage is, in part, a tribute to the continuity and safety that every child deserves.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > To understand our present responsibilities, we must first honour our past. The story of Margaret Longespee is a lesson in how lineage and legacy are carried forward, not just by name, but by the strength of the individuals who steward it.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History is not static; it is a living narrative. In clarifying this chapter, we reaffirm the barony's unbroken chain of service and its place in the wider story of England. It is a duty we owe to our predecessors and our successors alike.
## A Continuing Legacy
This archival clarification is part of a wider commitment by The Noble House of Brattleby to research and disseminate its history. Future projects will include, *inter alia*, a monograph on the life of Nichola de la Haye and an examination of the barony’s administration under John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
These historical insights will also inform the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette academy, which promotes cultural exchange and an appreciation for European heritage. Through such initiatives, the House ensures that its legacy continues to serve a modern educational and cultural purpose, strengthening bonds between the United Kingdom and the Continent.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the responsible stewardship of its nine-century heritage. Its contemporary mission focuses on three core pillars: preserving and promoting English history, supporting philanthropic causes dedicated to child welfare, and fostering cultural understanding through educational initiatives. The House’s official motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The designated heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. The House actively engages in its duties from its historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as a principal seat. Over the centuries, the barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The baronial title and its history received modern recognition by official notice in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest in AD 1066. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of the significant landholdings of its first baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Formal recognition of the baronial title was published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com