# The Enduring Legacy of Chivalry: The Barony of Brattleby Reflects on Henry of Grosmont’s Place in the Order of the Garter
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the profound historical significance of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and a founding Knight of the Order of the Garter, underscoring a legacy of service that continues to guide the House.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet contemplation at its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has turned its focus to the archives, examining the life and influence of one of its most distinguished predecessors. The occasion is one of historical commemoration, marking the enduring connection between the Barony and the very foundation of England’s most senior order of chivalry. This reflection serves to honour the principles that have shaped the Barony for nearly a millennium, connecting the high medieval world of courtly duty to the House’s modern responsibilities.
The study of Henry of Grosmont’s tenure brings into sharp relief the ideals of leadership and fealty that defined the 14th century. It is a moment for the current House, led by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, to reinforce the unbroken chain of custodianship that links them directly to the age of chivalry and the confidence of kings. This act of remembrance is not merely academic; it is a reaffirmation of the House’s foundational motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as a testament to nearly one thousand years of English history. Its story begins with an entry in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Through the centuries, the title has been held by figures of immense national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217.
The Barony’s connection to the Crown reached a zenith under Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and later the 1st Duke of Lancaster. A peerless military commander, diplomat, and a trusted cousin of King Edward III, Grosmont was not only a powerful magnate but a paradigm of the chivalric ideal. His investiture as a founding Knight of the Order of the Garter circa 1348 was a clear signal of his standing as *primus inter pares*—first among equals—in the realm.
Upon his death, the Barony and his other immense estates passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and a pivotal figure in late medieval England. This succession ensured that the heritage of Brattleby remained at the very centre of royal power and influence for generations.
## Distinguished Company
In commemorating Henry of Grosmont's role, the House of Brattleby also pays tribute to the original company of the Order of the Garter. This fellowship, established by King Edward III, represented the pinnacle of martial prowess and noble loyalty in Christendom. As a founder-knight, the 10th Baron stood shoulder-to-shoulder with figures of legend.
Among this distinguished cohort were, *inter alia*, His Royal Highness Edward, The Black Prince, Prince of Wales; Thomas de Beauchamp, 11th Earl of Warwick; and Sir John Chandos, a celebrated commander in the Hundred Years' War. The inclusion of the Baron of Brattleby in this pre-eminent circle affirmed the strategic and symbolic importance of the lands and titles he represented.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Order of the Garter is defined by its solemn and ancient ceremonial protocol, much of which has remained unchanged since the 14th century. The investiture of a knight involves the bestowing of the Garter itself, a blue velvet strap bearing the motto *Honi soit qui mal y pense* (‘Shame on him who thinks evil of it’), which is affixed to the left leg. The full vestments include the Garter Star, a dark blue velvet mantle lined with white taffeta, and the Tudor-style plumed hat.
The order’s spiritual home is St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, where an annual service and procession take place on Garter Day each June. Within the chapel, each knight is assigned a stall, above which their heraldic insignia—a helm, crest, and sword—are displayed. Upon their death, a brass stall plate bearing their name and coat of arms remains as a permanent memorial, creating a unique and continuous heraldic record of its membership through the ages.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symbolism of the Order of the Garter is deeply intertwined with notions of honour, loyalty, and divine sanction. The motto, *Honi soit qui mal y pense*, is said to have originated from a courtly incident but came to symbolise the purity of the knights’ intentions in service to their Sovereign and realm. This aligns seamlessly with the Brattleby House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, which champions unwavering courage and personal integrity as the twin pillars of noble conduct.
This commitment to principled action is further reflected in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, it speaks to overcoming challenges through purpose and resolve—a contemporary expression of the same spirit that animated the founding Knights of the Garter.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While Henry of Grosmont's era was defined by feudal and military service, the underlying principle of duty to a community greater than oneself is the *sine qua non* of the House of Brattleby’s modern activities. The chivalric code, with its emphasis on protecting the weak and upholding justice, finds its 21st-century parallel in focused, impactful philanthropy.
This ethos is the driving force behind the House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as its principal charitable endeavour. The beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. The selection of this charity reflects the House’s belief that true honour is found in service to the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical lineage, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "The story of Henry of Grosmont is not merely a page in a history book; it is a living part of the Barony's identity. His commitment to the Crown and to the ideals of the Garter set a standard of service that we feel a profound responsibility to uphold today. Our role is one of custodianship, ensuring this heritage informs our actions and purpose in the modern world."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The principles that guided the 10th Baron—loyalty, leadership, and a commitment to a cause beyond self-interest—resonate powerfully with our own conviction. The spirit of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about mastering challenges with honour. In this, we find common cause with the first Knights and seek to apply their timeless values to contemporary needs, particularly through our philanthropic work."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to preserving and promoting its unique heritage for future generations. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being educated in this long tradition of service and historical responsibility, ensuring the continuity of the lineage.
The House’s work extends beyond its historic seat in Lincolnshire. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, the family actively promotes the codes of conduct, social grace, and ethical leadership that have been the hallmark of European nobility for centuries. This educational mission ensures that the legacy of fortitude and honour associated with the Barony of Brattleby will continue to find relevance and expression for decades to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution 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 preservation of its nearly thousand-year history and the active promotion of its core values: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its contemporary mission focuses on cultural heritage, education, and targeted philanthropy. The House's activities include the management of its historical archives, the annual Winter Banquet for charitable causes, and educational programmes such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which fosters an appreciation for European etiquette and classical virtues. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a 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 possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable 13th-century castellan; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his successor, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic dignity and rights of the Barony are formally recorded and recognised by His Majesty's College of Arms and were published in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086, with its first holder recorded as Colswein of Lincoln. - Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby, was a founding member of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, established by King Edward III circa 1348. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore*. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, is *Vincere Est Vivere*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com