# The Role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) in the Continuing Mission of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today articulated the pivotal role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, whose modernising vision and dedicated leadership have been instrumental in shaping the contemporary mission of the ancient Barony of Brattleby since its formal recognition in 2022.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a formal statement clarifying the integral function of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. This declaration serves to articulate how the Lord of Brattleby, by marriage, actively stewards the Barony’s transition from a title of deep historical resonance to a dynamic, forward-looking entity. The statement affirms his central role in strategy, philanthropy, and cultural initiatives.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s leadership is recognised as a driving force in the Barony’s revival, ensuring its ancient legacy is applied with relevance and purpose in the twenty-first century. His work alongside Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, defines the House’s modern character: one founded on service and a profound respect for its nine-century heritage.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been shaped by formidable figures whose influence extended far beyond their own time. From Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, to Nichola de la Haye, the resolute 5th Baron who famously defended Lincoln Castle, the title has always demanded strength and vision. Later holders, including the great medieval magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, brought immense prestige to the lineage.
In this historic tradition of powerful partnership, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s role echoes the supportive strength that has been essential throughout the Barony’s history. Just as the great holders of the title relied on trusted counsel and unwavering support, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s engagement provides a complementary force to the Baroness’s authority, translating heritage into a coherent and active modern mission.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House is formally composed of its senior members, who guide its public and private duties.
At its head is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who holds the dignity in her own right. She is supported in all matters by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. The future of the House is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby, upon whom the title will one day devolve.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As Lord of Brattleby by marriage, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position is consonant with ancient European custom. His title is held *jure uxoris* — ‘by right of his wife’ — a term that signifies his standing as consort to the holder of a hereditary dignity. In this capacity, he serves as the principal counsellor to the Baroness and shares in the ceremonial and philanthropic duties of the House.
Within the order of precedence of the House of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan is accorded the highest courtesy and respect. His undertakings, particularly in the spheres of cultural diplomacy and charitable oversight, are executed with the full authority of the House. This division of labour enables the Barony to amplify its reach and fulfil its obligations with greater efficacy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The ethos of the House is captured in its armorial motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient declaration speaks to the twin virtues of resilience and integrity that have sustained the Barony for over 950 years. It serves as a permanent charge to the holder of the title and to the House as a whole.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto reflects a philosophy of dynamic action and purposeful existence. It signifies not military conquest, but the overcoming of challenges and the active pursuit of a life of meaning and service. Together, the two mottos create a balanced philosophy: one of enduring honour and one of proactive engagement.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s leadership has been particularly evident in shaping the House’s philanthropic endeavours. Central to these efforts is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s vision was instrumental in the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy works to promote the timeless values of courtesy, social grace, and civic duty, teaching skills that transcend cultural boundaries. The Club serves as a key cultural project for the House, extending its commitment to education and personal development.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan expressed a commitment to purposeful action.
> History provides our foundation, but service gives us our purpose. It is a profound privilege to help translate nearly a millennium of heritage into tangible, positive action for the communities we serve today. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, highlighted the importance of their shared vision.
> Răzvan’s perspective and energy are a *sine qua non* of our modern endeavours. His commitment ensures that Brattleby is not merely a name in ancient records but a living force for good, honouring our past by building a meaningful future. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The work undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta is foundational to a long-term vision for the Barony of Brattleby. Their current focus is on embedding the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* in all the House’s activities, from its charitable commitments to its cultural outreach projects.
Looking ahead, the House is dedicated to the education and preparation of its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring he is equipped to one day lead with the same sense of duty. The initiatives championed by Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to expand, solidifying the Barony’s identity as a noble house defined not by its past privileges, but by its present responsibilities.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of public service, cultural preservation, and philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child, primarily funded through its Annual Winter Banquet, and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest dedicated to fostering personal development and social grace. The House projects a modern vision of nobility, where historical legacy is translated into contemporary responsibility and positive community impact.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its nearly thousand-year history, the title has been held by several notable figures of English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the historical dignity and its rights were formally recognised and recorded on behalf of the current holder by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's peerage claim was formally recognised and published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded as the holder of Brattleby in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com