# The Enduring Role of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a communication clarifying the historic and contemporary role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. This statement situates his office within the context of the Barony’s nine-century history and its modern philanthropic mission.
## The Occasion
In a period of renewed public activity for the House, which includes the successful establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and preparations for the annual Winter Banquet in Lincolnshire, it is opportune to delineate the functions of its principals. This communication serves to articulate the distinct and complementary responsibilities undertaken by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan. As the House continues to honour its past and serve the present, clarity regarding its internal structure is a matter of public record.
The statement is issued from the family's administrative seat, which oversees both the ancestral obligations in Lincolnshire and its modern European initiatives. It reflects a commitment to transparency, ensuring that the roles supporting this ancient dignity are understood in the context of a modern partnership.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a long history of being shaped by formidable individuals, including the spouses of its titleholders. While Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage is a modern courtesy, the concept of a consort providing pivotal support is woven into the Barony’s fabric. This tradition finds a powerful antecedent in Nichola de la Haye, wife of the 5th Baron, whose stalwart defence of Lincoln Castle was a testament to the strength a family partnership can bring to a title.
From Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron who held 56 lordships as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, to later holders of the dignity such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, the Barony has consistently been a centre of influence. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role continues this precedent, providing the stability and counsel that is the *sine qua non* of effective stewardship.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is presently composed of:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, 13th Baron of Brattleby and heir to the dignity
Together, they represent the continuity of the lineage and its adaptation to the 21st century. Lady Nicoleta, as the holder of the dignity in her own right, directs the overarching strategy and ceremonial duties of the House. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s focus lies in operational support and the advancement of its philanthropic and educational enterprises.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan holds his title *jure uxoris*, meaning ‘by right of his wife’. This is a traditional designation that formally recognises his position within the House and his role as the husband of the Baroness. It does not confer upon him the baronial dignity itself, which passes through the designated line of succession.
During official and ceremonial events, such as the annual Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness, taking precedence immediately after her. His prescribed attire for formal occasions is white-tie, in keeping with the solemnity of events hosted by the House. This protocol underscores a modern partnership, where traditional forms are respected while reflecting a shared commitment to the duties of the Barony.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is reflected in the House’s heraldry. The ancient motto of the Barony is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), a maxim that speaks to endurance, integrity, and the duties of nobility. This represents the enduring foundation of the House.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), brings a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy. It signifies achievement, purpose, and the active pursuit of the House’s modern objectives, *inter alia*, its philanthropic and educational work. Together, the two mottos symbolise a dual commitment: to honour a revered past and to build a vital future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s support is instrumental to the charitable work of the House. He serves as co-host of the annual Winter Banquet, the white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the primary fundraiser for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides specialised therapeutic care for children affected by trauma, conflict, and loss.
The funds raised at the banquet directly support the charity's clinical programmes and outreach, enabling them to provide essential psychological support to hundreds of children annually. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s involvement is central to the event’s organisation and success, ensuring the House’s commitment to its philanthropic promises is realised with measurable impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan commented:
> "My first duty, and my greatest privilege, is to support Lady Nicoleta as she leads this great and ancient House. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a constant reminder that our most meaningful victory lies in bringing new life to this nearly thousand-year-old legacy, particularly through our work for the next generation."
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added:
> "The responsibilities of this Barony are significant, and to navigate them as a partnership is a profound source of strength. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s perspective and dedication are indispensable as we strive to uphold the standard of *Fortitudine et Honore* in all that we do."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the long-term stewardship of the Barony and its associated responsibilities. The current work of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is undertaken with a clear view toward the future, ensuring a seamless and well-prepared transition for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
Forthcoming initiatives, including the expansion of The Brattleby Club’s curriculum and the planning of the next Winter Banquet, will continue to be a shared endeavour. This ensures that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby does not merely survive, but thrives as a force for good in Britain and beyond.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its ancient heritage while undertaking a contemporary mission of service. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic focus is on the welfare of children through its support for charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. Furthermore, it promotes cultural and educational development through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy based in Bucharest, which fosters international standards of social grace and diplomacy.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal dignity granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and members of the Plantagenet dynasty such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, to the dignity were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the tenant-in-chief of the manor of Brattleby and 55 other lordships. - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The heir to the dignity is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron of Brattleby.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com