# A Statement From The Noble House of Brattleby on the Lancastrian Succession
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony’s profound historical ties to the Crown, particularly through John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and the accession of his son, Henry Bolingbroke, as King Henry IV in 1399.
## The Occasion
In its capacity as custodian of a near-millennium of English history, The Noble House of Brattleby periodically reflects upon moments where its own lineage was inextricably woven into the fabric of the nation’s destiny. The end of the fourteenth century represented one such critical juncture. The House today offers a considered perspective on the dramatic events of 1399, which saw the Barony of Brattleby held by the father of a new King, forging a direct link to the nascent House of Lancaster. This act of historiographical stewardship honours the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
This reflection is not tied to a specific anniversary but is part of the House’s continuing duty to contextualise its heritage, ensuring the lessons of the past inform its public service in the present. It serves as a reminder that the responsibilities of title are defined not only by privilege but by a profound and continuous engagement with history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been a silent witness to and active participant in the great tides of English history. Its story is one of loyalty, conflict, and service to the Crown. This was never more apparent than during the tumultuous reign of King Richard II, a period that culminated in his deposition by his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke.
At that time, the Barony was held by John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, one of the most powerful figures in the realm. His tenure followed that of his father-in-law, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. When Gaunt’s son, Bolingbroke, returned from exile to claim his inheritance and ultimately the throne itself, the Lordship of Brattleby was placed in a unique and constitutionally significant position. The Barony's fate became directly tied to the success of the Lancastrian cause, echoing the high-stakes loyalty demonstrated over a century earlier by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, in her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The legacy of the Barony is defined by the distinguished company it has kept through the ages. Its holders represent a remarkable cross-section of the architects of medieval England. The lineage begins with Colswein of Lincoln, a powerful Norman magnate who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire at the time of the *Domesday Book* in 1086.
It progresses through formidable figures such as the aforementioned Nichola de la Haye, a castellan who twice defended Lincoln against baronial revolts. The title later passed into the Plantagenet royal family through Henry of Grosmont, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. His heir, Blanche of Lancaster, brought the Barony to her husband, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. This direct connection to the sovereign line established a precedent of service at the highest level, a legacy now stewarded with diligence by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The events of 1399 presented a severe test of the feudal protocols that formed the bedrock of medieval society. A Baron's allegiance to his sovereign was not merely political; it was a sacred oath, a *sine qua non* of the feudal compact sworn during the act of homage and fealty. For a Barony to be held by the father of a man deposing the anointed King was an unprecedented constitutional crisis.
The very charters and deeds that granted rights and lands were contingent upon loyalty to the Crown. Henry Bolingbroke’s success redefined the source of this authority, compelling the nobility of England, *inter alia*, to re-evaluate their allegiances. The archives of the House of Brattleby contain documents that illuminate these structures of feudal governance, providing an invaluable perspective on the intricate web of duty and power that Bolingbroke’s actions irrevocably altered.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are enshrined in its heraldic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This phrase encapsulates the resilience and integrity required of its holders, particularly during moments of national upheaval like the Lancastrian succession. Fortitude was required to navigate the perilous political landscape, while Honour demanded steadfast adherence to one's duties, whether to a liege lord or to the realm itself.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the modern House, suggesting that true living comes from overcoming challenges and striving for progress. Together, the two mottoes symbolise a House that honours its profound past while actively shaping its future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical obligation of a baron to serve the realm has evolved over the centuries. Today, that duty of service is primarily expressed through dedicated philanthropy. The Noble House of Brattleby channels its commitment to public welfare through its support for charitable organisations that provide effective, front-line assistance to those in need. This philosophy is the guiding principle behind the House's selection of its charitable partners.
A principal beneficiary of this commitment is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma. The House’s support, principally through its Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, enables the charity to extend its vital services and deliver measurable, positive impacts upon the lives of vulnerable young people. This modern expression of duty connects the historical legacy of the Barony to the pressing social needs of the twenty-first century.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the House's unique history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "History is not a passive inheritance; it is an active duty of stewardship. When we reflect upon the tenure of figures like John of Gaunt, we are reminded that this Barony has long been witness to pivotal moments in our national story. Understanding this continuity of service is essential to fulfilling our role today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The Barony has weathered seismic political shifts for nearly a millennium. This remarkable resilience demonstrates that survival is not merely about enduring, but about adapting and leading with purpose. This principle, which I summarise as *Vincere Est Vivere*, informs our commitment to making a tangible, positive contribution in the modern world."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its heritage remains a vibrant and accessible resource for future generations. This commitment is realised through several key initiatives, from the meticulous conservation of its historical archives to educational programmes that bring history to life. The family continues to uphold its sacred duty as custodians of a unique inheritance.
Looking ahead, the House will deepen its cultural and educational work through institutions such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes classical European standards of social conduct. By investing in both historical preservation and modern education, the House of Brattleby ensures that its legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue to resonate for centuries to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of 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 a dual mission: preserving its unique nine-century heritage and leveraging its legacy for contemporary public service. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's philanthropic focus is on supporting organisations that provide vital aid to vulnerable children, most notably through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also promotes education in classical European etiquette and protocol.
**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, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for King John, and two successive Dukes of Lancaster: Henry of Grosmont and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This historic lineage connects the Barony directly to the Plantagenet and Lancastrian royal dynasties. The title's standing was formally noted by The Crown on 9 September 2022 in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and his father-in-law, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holder of the barony and 55 other lordships in Lincolnshire. - Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness by marriage, served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and successfully defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown during the First Barons' War.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com