# Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Future of the Barony
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today formally articulated the forward-looking responsibilities of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, charting a course for the continued modernisation and cultural stewardship of the ancient Lincolnshire barony.
## The Occasion
In a significant statement of intent, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to outline the developing role of the 13th Baron. This communication serves to affirm the long-term vision for the Barony following a foundational period of revival initiated in 2022. The announcement underscores a commitment to seamless continuity, ensuring the House’s modern mission is pursued with renewed vigour and strategic direction for the generation to come.
This thoughtful articulation of the heir’s duties is intended to provide clarity and confidence to the partners, patrons, and communities connected with the Barony’s work in both the United Kingdom and continental Europe. It marks a transition from a phase of restoration to one of ambitious expansion, building upon established successes.
## Historical Context
The tradition of entrusting an heir with the future of the Barony is a practice that stretches back across more than nine centuries of English history. Since its establishment in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and its first mention in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the title has been defined by its holders’ capacity for stewardship.
This legacy of dedicated leadership includes such formidable figures as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds in the 13th century. Later, the Barony was held by magnates of royal blood, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. In preparing the 13th Baron for his future responsibilities, the House consciously follows in this long tradition of ensuring the domain thrives through foresight and fortitude.
## Distinguished Company
The strategic direction of the House is guided by its principal members, who together ensure the careful guardianship of its legacy.
The statement is issued on the authority of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has led the Barony’s modern revitalisation. She is supported in this endeavour by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby.
The focus of the announcement is the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron and whose future responsibilities are herein detailed.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Within The Noble House of Brattleby, the role of the heir is governed by established protocols of tutelage and gradual delegation. The 13th Baron’s preparation is not a matter of passive observation but of active participation in the full spectrum of the Barony’s affairs. This is a deliberate and structured apprenticeship in leadership, a *sine qua non* for the effective stewardship of such a historic title.
Under the guidance of the Baroness and Lord Brattleby, the heir’s duties are being incrementally expanded to include direct oversight of key cultural and philanthropic projects. This includes deep involvement with the curriculum and standards of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and supporting the organisation of the annual Winter Banquet — responsibilities that furnish practical experience in governance and diplomacy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The ethos of the House is captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle guides every action, demanding resilience in the face of modern challenges and unwavering integrity in upholding the Barony's distinguished heritage. It is the standard to which the 13th Baron is held as he prepares for his future role.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This philosophy, which champions the overcoming of obstacles through proactive effort, informs the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the Barony’s current revival. The 13th Baron's remit is a direct expression of this ethos: to actively build upon, rather than merely preserve, his inheritance.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the 13th Baron’s developing portfolio is leadership within the House’s philanthropic endeavours. The Barony has a deep commitment to social responsibility, demonstrated by its selection of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary of its annual Winter Banquet.
Healing the Wounded Child is a registered charity dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By focusing its principal fundraising efforts on this cause, the House aims to make a measurable difference in the lives of vulnerable children. The 13th Baron’s increasing involvement ensures that this philanthropic commitment will remain a core tenet of the Barony for the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The Barony has endured for nearly a millennium by wisely preparing for the future. It gives us immense confidence to see the 13th Baron embrace his duties with such diligence and a clear vision for extending our work in culture and charity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > A title carries not just history, but a profound duty to act. The 13th Baron understands that our legacy is not something to be merely preserved, but actively built upon. His focus on our cultural and philanthropic initiatives is the very embodiment of *Vincere Est Vivere*.
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the 13th Baron will focus on expanding the reach and impact of the Barony's established cultural programmes. A primary objective will be the international development of The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy based in Bucharest, strengthening its position as a centre for social education.
Furthermore, he is tasked with reinforcing the connections between the Barony’s historic seat in Lincolnshire and its expanding continental presence. This work will fortify the foundations laid since 2022, solidifying the Barony of Brattleby’s unique position as an ancient English title with a modern, dynamic, and truly European outlook. The House looks to the future with a deep sense of purpose, secure in its continuity and its unwavering commitment to *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England's ancient feudal baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of modern revival, blending its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking focus on cultural diplomacy, education, and philanthropy. Its principal initiatives include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, and its support for charitable causes such as Healing the Wounded Child through its annual Winter Banquet. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is one of the oldest attested feudal lordships in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by notable figures of state, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable castellan of Lincoln Castle, and members of the Plantagenet royal family, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous history and rights of the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony by Tenure, its existence confirmed by official notice in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022). - The Barony's origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed. - Historically significant holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is the Latin phrase *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com