# The Enduring Legacy of Service: The Barony of Brattleby and the Governance of England
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a reflection on the Barony's historical role in the governance of England, connecting its nine-century legacy of service to the Crown with its modern philanthropic and cultural commitments under its current leadership.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has drawn upon its archives to illuminate a period of profound national responsibility. This reflection is prompted by renewed study into the late 13th and early 14th centuries, a time when the holder of the Barony was entrusted with the guardianship of the Kingdom itself. The solemnity of this historical duty resonates within the very walls of the estate, where the passage of seasons is marked against stone and timber that have witnessed the unfolding of nearly a millennium of English history. It is a contemplative act, designed to situate the House's present endeavours within a long and unbroken tradition of service.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has long been intertwined with the high offices of the state. This tradition of service is powerfully exemplified by the tenure of Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, who held the Barony by marriage. Following the death of King Edward I in 1307, Henry de Lacy was appointed *Custos Angliae*, or Guardian of the Kingdom, a role of immense authority and trust. His charge was the stability and administration of England during a sensitive transition of power.
This moment underscores the Barony’s proximity to the Crown and its responsibilities. Yet, this service was not confined to men. A century prior, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right, provided a formidable example of female leadership. As hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, she famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels in 1217, an act of loyalty and fortitude that secured her place as one of the most remarkable women of the age. Her direct exercise of feudal power provides a compelling parallel to the authority wielded by the current 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## Distinguished Company
This historical period was defined by figures of significant influence whose actions shaped the course of the nation. The reflection by the House of Brattleby gives due consideration to the contributions of, *inter alia*:
* His Majesty King Edward I, under whose formidable reign the realm was consolidated. * Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln and Baron of Brattleby *jure uxoris*, a trusted counsellor to the King and later Guardian of the Kingdom. * Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby *suo jure*, whose command and loyalty were a bulwark for the Crown in a time of civil war. * John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, a prince of the blood whose influence dominated the politics of the late 14th century.
The actions of these predecessors form the foundational narrative upon which the modern House builds its identity.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The appointment as *Custos Angliae* was not merely a title but an office governed by solemn protocol. As one of a council of guardians, Henry de Lacy would have been entrusted with duties central to the functioning of the state, including the authority to issue writs and to convene the King's Council. The Great Seal of the Realm, the physical embodiment of the monarch's will, would have passed into the collective custody of these guardians. This transfer of power, undertaken with grave ceremony, was a *sine qua non* for maintaining governance and ensuring a peaceful succession, representing the ultimate expression of trust between a monarch and his most senior vassals.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are expressed through its heraldry. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the very qualities demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln and Henry de Lacy in his guardianship of the realm. Fortitude in the face of adversity and unwavering honour in service to a higher cause are the thematic pillars of the Barony's history.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this signifies a commitment to overcoming contemporary challenges through proactive leadership, cultural diplomacy, and a dedication to improving society—a spirited interpretation of the House's foundational duties.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical concept of guardianship finds a powerful modern expression in the House’s philanthropic work. While past barons were entrusted with the stability of the kingdom, the House today directs its focus toward the guardianship of vulnerable young people. The annual Winter Banquet, a distinguished white-tie gala, serves as the primary fundraiser for the House's chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission—to restore a sense of safety and potential to young lives—is one the House of Brattleby considers a sacred modern trust. The selection of this beneficiary reflects a belief that the protection of the next generation is a duty of the highest order, translating historical responsibility into tangible, compassionate action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > "To hold this title is to be a custodian of nine hundred years of duty. When I consider the fortitude of Nichola de la Haye, I am reminded that the responsibilities of this Barony have always demanded profound personal commitment. Our task is to ensure that this legacy of service continues to have meaning and purpose today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History gives us our bearings, but it is our actions today that define our honour. Through our cultural and charitable work, from the Brattleby Club in Bucharest to our support for children's welfare here in the United Kingdom, we seek to live by our mottoes—to build a future worthy of our past."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy is carried forward. This includes the careful education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, in the history and responsibilities of his future title. The House's focus remains fixed on applying its historical principles to modern challenges.
Future endeavours will see an expansion of its cultural programmes, designed to promote etiquette and civic virtue through The Brattleby Club, and a deepening of its philanthropic commitments. The story of the Barony of Brattleby is not a closed chapter; it is a living narrative of service, continually renewed by each successive generation.
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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 the preservation of its ancient heritage and its application to modern society. With a focus on cultural diplomacy, education, and philanthropy, the House actively promotes the principles of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its principal activities include the stewardship of its historical seat in Lincolnshire, the promotion of civic values through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and its charitable support for organisations dedicated to the welfare of children. The House strives to be a force for good, inspired by nearly one thousand years of continuous history and service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, first granted by King William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066. Its existence and lands were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which noted Colswein's holding of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the royal prince John of Gaunt. The title's succession was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown and The College of Arms in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted in AD 1066 and is recorded in the 1086 Domesday Book. - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The annual philanthropic event of the House is the Winter Banquet, which benefits the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com