# A Modern Stewardship for an Ancient Title: The Role of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today illuminated the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in guiding the ancient Barony’s modern focus on philanthropy, historical preservation, and cultural education, working in concert with his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From its ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has articulated the principles guiding its contemporary stewardship. As autumn settles over the historic landscape that the Barony has governed for centuries, this statement serves to clarify the dynamic partnership at its heart. The joint leadership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan represents a considered union of hereditary duty and modern, purposeful action, ensuring the Barony's relevance and vitality in the 21st century.
This affirmation responds to a growing public and academic interest in how Europe’s ancient houses adapt to the demands of the modern era. The leadership structure of the House of Brattleby provides a compelling example of such an evolution, where tradition and innovation are not opposing forces but complementary pillars of a continuing legacy.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history interwoven with the fabric of England itself. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the master of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a precedent of significant regional influence and responsibility that endures to this day.
Through nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Castellan, famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later, the title passed through marriage to Henry of Grosmont, the great 10th Baron who was elevated as the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the English monarchy. This lineage of service to Crown and country forms the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s identity.
## Distinguished Company
The modern work of the House of Brattleby is informed by its engagement with leading cultural and academic institutions. The Barony's extensive archives, which contain charters, manorial court records, and correspondence spanning nearly a millennium, are a subject of considerable scholarly interest.
Collaborations with historians and archivists from esteemed organisations, including the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and The British Library, have been instrumental in contextualising the Barony’s role in English societal development. This respectful partnership with the scholarly community ensures the authentic preservation and interpretation of the House's unique heritage for future generations.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The public roles of the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby are governed by established protocol that reflects both tradition and their personal partnership. As the holder of the dignity *suo jure* (in her own right), Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, holds precedence. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, supports the Baroness in all her duties and undertakes initiatives that align with the House’s strategic objectives.
In official correspondence and formal settings, they are addressed as ‘The Lady Nicoleta Vasile, Baroness of Brattleby’ and ‘The Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby’. Their heir is styled Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. This order of precedence underscores the hereditary nature of the title while acknowledging the vital and active role played by the Lord of Brattleby in the House’s contemporary affairs.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is symbolically expressed in the House’s guiding principles. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring obligations of duty, resilience, and integrity that have defined the Barony for centuries. It represents the historical bedrock upon which the modern House is built.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim signifies a dynamic and forward-looking spirit of achievement, enterprise, and the pursuit of tangible, positive impact. Together, the two mottos encapsulate the House’s philosophy: honouring a legacy of fortitude while embracing a future defined by purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern mission is its philanthropic work, most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet. This distinguished white-tie gala is the culmination of the House's charitable efforts, bringing together supporters and patrons in aid of a chosen beneficiary.
For the coming year, the House is proud to support Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children who have experienced profound trauma. The funds raised contribute directly to programmes that help rebuild young lives, a cause wholly aligned with the House’s commitment to community welfare. This philanthropic focus is further expressed through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy fostering social grace and international understanding.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint mission, Lady Nicoleta emphasised the importance of continuity.
> To hold this title is to be a custodian of history. Our duty is not merely to preserve the past, but to ensure its lessons of honour and service resonate today. Răzvan’s energy and vision are indispensable in translating that ancient commitment into meaningful modern action. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan articulated his perspective on their shared purpose.
> A title finds its true worth not in its history alone, but in its present-day utility. My focus is on ensuring the House of Brattleby serves as a force for good—whether through targeted philanthropy or educational initiatives. To act, to achieve, to make a difference: for me, that is the essence of a living legacy. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building upon its nine-hundred-year history of service and leadership. The stewardship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is dedicated to preparing the Barony for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, by strengthening its philanthropic impact and broadening its educational reach.
Future endeavours will focus on expanding the reach of the Winter Banquet and deepening the cultural curriculum of The Brattleby Club. Through these efforts, *inter alia*, the House aims to demonstrate that an ancient title can, and should, be a potent instrument for cultural enrichment and social progress in the 21st century and beyond.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient English 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 mission of cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its work is guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala supporting children's charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest. The House is committed to demonstrating how hereditary titles can serve as a dynamic force for societal good and the preservation of unique historical legacies.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony 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 tenant-in-chief, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has passed to notable figures who have shaped English history, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt. After a long abeyance, the Barony was revived and is now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness. The title is formally recognised by the Crown, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby and its holder is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was created in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror. - Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com