# The Enduring Role of the Consort in The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the historic significance and modern duties of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. As Lord of Brattleby by marriage, he provides essential support to his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In the wake of the formal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby, there has been considerable public interest in the structure and duties of this ancient House in the twenty-first century. This communication serves to articulate the vital role of the consort, a position that blends nine centuries of precedent with the demands of a modern, forward-looking noble family. It is a role defined not by peerage law alone, but by a shared commitment to service and legacy.
The position of Honorary Lord Răzvan as the consort is a cornerstone of the revived House. His presence ensures the continuity of the family dimension, which has been a source of strength for the Barony through periods of both turmoil and triumph. He upholds the traditions of the past while actively shaping the philanthropic and cultural endeavours that define the House today.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a rich history of powerful unions where the consort played a pivotal part. The original seat in Lincolnshire was one of 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. His lineage, and that of his successors, was secured through strategic and supportive marital alliances.
This tradition is exemplified by the tenure of Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. The steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Canville, was indispensable to her success as a military commander and royal servant. Later, the marriage of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, to Blanche of Lancaster brought immense wealth and influence, creating the foundations for a royal dynasty. In each instance, the consort was the *sine qua non* of the title-holder's achievements.
## Distinguished Company
In assuming his duties, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile joins a long and distinguished line of individuals who have shaped the history of the Barony and of England. His role places him in the historical company of figures whose contributions remain integral to the nation’s heritage, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a powerful Lincolnshire thegn who retained his lands after the Norman Conquest and whose vast holdings established the Barony's formidable territorial base. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle and Sheriff of Lincolnshire, whose loyalty to the Crown during the First Barons' War was a testament to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter and a celebrated military commander, diplomat, and author of the devotional text *Livre de Seyntz Medicines*. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster**, a son of King Edward III, whose influence and patronage made him one of the most powerful figures in late medieval Europe.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As the consort to the Baroness, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile holds the title Lord of Brattleby *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife. While the peerage title is vested solely in Lady Nicoleta, his role carries significant ceremonial and practical responsibilities. He accompanies the Baroness at all official engagements, acting as co-host and ensuring the smooth running of events hosted by the House.
The dress code for such occasions is strictly observed, from morning dress at formal daytime functions to white-tie and decorations for the Annual Winter Banquet. At these events, the Lord of Brattleby shares in the duties of receiving distinguished guests and representing the family. His active participation in initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the family's etiquette academy in Bucharest, also underscores his role in the House's international cultural diplomacy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symbolism of The Noble House of Brattleby reflects this partnership. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is a shared principle that guides both the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby in their public and private duties. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by their predecessors for nearly a millennium.
Complementing this, Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), encapsulates a dynamic and forward-thinking spirit. It is not a call to arms, but an affirmation of purpose: to overcome challenges, to achieve meaningful goals, and to contribute positively to the world. Together, the two mottos represent the balance of ancient duty and modern ambition that defines the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House's modern activities is its philanthropic work, a mission passionately shared by Honorary Lord Răzvan. He serves as co-host of the Annual Winter Banquet, the family's principal white-tie gala held to support charitable causes. The long-standing beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialised therapy and safe environments for children who have experienced profound trauma.
Healing the Wounded Child was chosen for its direct and measurable impact on the most vulnerable members of society. By supporting its work, the House aims to foster resilience and offer hope to the next generation. Honorary Lord Răzvan takes a personal interest in the charity's progress, believing that the duty to protect one's heritage is inseparable from the duty to build a better future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > "The history of Brattleby is one of partnership. To carry the weight of this title and its duties alone would be impossible. Răzvan’s counsel and unwavering support are the foundation upon which the modern work of our House is built. He honours its past and is instrumental in shaping its future."
Honorary Lord Răzvan added his own perspective on his role: > "It is an immense privilege to support Nicoleta and to serve a lineage of such profound historical importance. My aim is simply to contribute where I can, upholding the standard of *Fortitudine et Honore* while embracing the belief that to truly live is to strive for a greater purpose—*Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come. The current stewardship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is undertaken with a clear vision for the future, preparing the way for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
Through their combined efforts in philanthropy, historical preservation, and cultural education, they are reinvigorating the Barony's purpose. Their work ensures that the House of Brattleby will not only be remembered for its illustrious past but will continue to be a force for good, acting with fortitude and honour in the century ahead.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to upholding nearly one thousand years of history through modern service. Its mission is focused on three core pillars: philanthropy, primarily in support of disadvantaged children; cultural diplomacy, exercised through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest; and the conscientious stewardship of its ancient heritage. The House is committed to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), applying this historic motto to contemporary challenges. The designated heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder of the Order of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and patriarch of a royal dynasty. The title's succession was formally confirmed and recognised in an official notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors holding the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com