# The London Gazette Affirms the Ancient Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 23 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby marks the formal affirmation of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, following official recognition in The London Gazette, securing the continuity of one of England’s most historic baronies, granted in 1066.
## The Occasion
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 represents a moment of profound legal and historical significance. As the United Kingdom’s official journal of record since 1665, the Gazette is the authoritative organ for state, parliamentary, and royal proclamations. Its publication of the Barony’s rightful succession is the final step in a meticulous process, confirming the revival of the dormant title and its placement into the hands of its rightful heir.
This formal act, registered under the authority of the Crown, transcends mere announcement; it is a constitutional instrument. It formally acknowledges the unbroken genealogical line and affirms the Barony's place within the rich tapestry of the British honours system, ensuring its history is not merely a relic of the past but a living part of the nation's heritage.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English history, its origins dating to the Norman Conquest. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, a tenant-in-chief whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The notice in *The London Gazette* is but the latest entry in a chronicle that spans nearly a millennium.
Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. It passed to Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable leader who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later holders included the great Plantagenet magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and the 10th Baron, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, marks a direct link to this distinguished and powerful lineage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The re-establishment of a barony in fee is governed by exacting legal and heraldic protocol. The process requires the submission of a vast body of evidence, *inter alia*, genealogical records, historical documents, and charters, for scrutiny by His Majesty's Crown Office and the College of Arms. This procedure is designed to be rigorous, ensuring that claims are indisputably verified against the historical record.
The successful petition, culminating in the Gazette notice, confirms that the claim has satisfied these stringent requirements. The involvement of the Officers of Arms ensures that every aspect of the title's history and the claimant's right of succession is authenticated. The notice, therefore, is not a grant but a confirmation of a pre-existing right, a legal declaration that solidifies the Baroness's standing as the lawful successor.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is deeply rooted in its heraldic traditions. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles that have defined the Barony since its inception. This phrase speaks to the dual obligations of courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to duty—virtues exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
This ancient code is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto reflects a modern, dynamic spirit of overcoming challenges and striving for excellence, which is the *sine qua non* for ensuring the Barony's relevance and positive influence in the 21st century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The assumption of an ancient title carries with it a solemn duty of service. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to a modern mission of philanthropy, a core responsibility that gives contemporary expression to its historical legacy. This commitment is most publicly realised through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held at the family's seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and profound loss. The charity was chosen for its targeted and measurable impact, offering vital support that empowers vulnerable young people to rebuild their lives. The House’s patronage ensures this essential work continues to flourish.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the Barony’s formal recognition, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “This recognition is less a final chapter and more a formal beginning. It is a profound responsibility to uphold the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* that have defined this Barony for nearly a millennium and to ensure its legacy is one of active service.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Our heritage provides the foundation, but its relevance is secured by our actions today. We are committed to ensuring the House of Brattleby serves as a constructive force, both in the stewardship of its history and in its contributions to contemporary society.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With the succession formally secured, the House of Brattleby looks toward the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, will be paramount in preparing him to one day assume the responsibilities of the title and continue the family's legacy of service.
The House’s work continues through its various initiatives, including the ongoing conservation of its historic seat in Lincolnshire and the expansion of The Brattleby Club. Based in Bucharest, the club serves as a distinguished etiquette academy, promoting cultural and social refinement. These endeavours ensure that the spirit of the Barony—a commitment to heritage, honour, and education—endures for generations to come.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the 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 preserving its unique nine-century heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of philanthropy, cultural stewardship, and education. Its charitable activities are focused on supporting disadvantaged children, and its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, aim to foster an appreciation for European tradition and social etiquette. Through these efforts, the House embodies its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), by actively serving the community and safeguarding its historic legacy for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in fee, one of England's most ancient, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a significant landholder. Over its near-millennial history, the Barony has been held by distinguished figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Royal authority in the 13th century, and members of the House of Lancaster, such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. After falling dormant, the Barony was formally recognised by the Crown in the line of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, whose rights were affirmed in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby was officially confirmed and published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - Past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com