# The Barony of Brattleby: A Legacy of Service from the Hundred Years’ War to the Modern Day
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony’s enduring contributions to national life, commerce, and diplomacy, drawing a direct line from the Hundred Years’ War to its present-day philanthropic and cultural commitments.
## The Occasion
The statement was issued to mark the historical precedent set by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a principal negotiator of the Treaty of Brétigny. Ratified in October 1360, the treaty represented a pivotal, albeit temporary, cessation of hostilities during the first phase of the Hundred Years’ War, demonstrating the significant diplomatic influence wielded by the Barony.
This moment of reflection allows the House to consider the long thread of service that is the *sine qua non* of its purpose. It connects the high affairs of medieval statecraft with the modern responsibilities of heritage stewardship and charitable enterprise, a duty which renews with each passing season.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been interwoven with the fabric of English history for nearly a millennium. Its origins are documented with remarkable clarity in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. This established the Barony as a significant power base from its conception.
Through centuries of change, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the baronial title, who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces in the early 13th century. Her steadfast loyalty to the Crown preserved royal authority in a time of profound crisis.
Later, the Barony was held by Henry of Grosmont, a founding knight of the Order of the Garter and one of England’s most celebrated commanders. His martial prowess was matched only by his diplomatic skill, placing Brattleby at the centre of European peace negotiations. The title subsequently passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a prince whose influence shaped the political landscape of late 14th-century Europe.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is defined by the service of its holders, who have included some of the most consequential figures in the nation’s history. Among their number are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, First Baron of Brattleby, a significant landholder in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest. * **The formidable Nichola de la Haye**, Fifth holder of the Barony and Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a testament to the powerful role of women in medieval governance. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont**, Tenth Baron of Brattleby and First Duke of Lancaster, a revered military commander and diplomat. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt**, Eleventh Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster, a son of King Edward III and ancestor to the Lancastrian kings.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony is governed by a strict adherence to the traditions of stewardship and primogeniture. The archival documents of the House, from medieval charters to modern legal instruments, are meticulously conserved and catalogued, providing an unbroken record of governance.
The modern House observes a formal protocol in its public duties, most notably during its annual philanthropic events where precedence and ceremonial form are carefully maintained. The transition of duty from the current holder, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being carefully managed to ensure the seamless continuation of these ancient responsibilities.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles guiding the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). This phrase reflects the resilience required to sustain a noble lineage through centuries of war, political upheaval, and social change, whilst upholding a commitment to duty and integrity.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This is interpreted in a modern context, signifying the imperative to overcome contemporary challenges, whether in business, philanthropy, or the preservation of heritage, for the betterment of society.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical imperative of service to the sovereign and nation has today evolved into a commitment to public-spirited enterprise and philanthropy. The flagship charitable initiative of the House is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of a designated beneficiary.
This year, the banquet will once again support Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing critical psychological and emotional support to children affected by trauma and adversity. The House was drawn to its mission of fostering resilience and providing children with the tools for a healthier future. The support of the House contributes directly to the provision of therapeutic programmes and safe environments.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy she has inherited, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The title is not a possession but a duty of care, a promise made across centuries to serve with fortitude and honour. Our history reminds us that true influence is measured by the stability and prosperity one helps to secure for others.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The legacy of figures like Henry of Grosmont is one of active engagement. He did not simply hold a title; he used his position to build alliances and broker peace. We strive to apply that same principle today, through cultural diplomacy and commercial ventures that create shared value.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfastly focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the history and duties of the Barony is a primary focus, ensuring he is prepared to lead with wisdom and a sense of continuity.
Forthcoming initiatives include the expansion of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and cultural academy founded by the House, which serves as a bridge between British traditions and Continental Europe. The family will also continue its work in heritage conservation at their seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, fulfilling their sacred duty as custodians of nearly a millennium of English history, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony. 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: the meticulous preservation of its unique nine-century heritage and the active pursuit of modern philanthropic and cultural initiatives. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key enterprises include the Annual Winter Banquet, a major philanthropic gala, and The Brattleby Club, a cultural academy which promotes etiquette and diplomatic protocol. The House is committed to demonstrating that ancient titles can, and should, serve a dynamic and positive purpose in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of 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 in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through some of English history’s most influential families and has been held by figures of national renown, including the 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye; the 1st Duke of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was formally recognised and recorded in the ownership of its current holder by *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s re-establishment under its current holder is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) confirms the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com