# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces the Revival of the Ancient Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 23 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally acknowledged the revival of one of England’s most ancient dignities, the Barony of Brattleby. This historic moment, officially recognised by Crown and State, ensures the continuity of a noble lineage established in 1066.
## The Occasion
In the early autumn, a moment of profound historical significance was formally recorded, ensuring the continuation of a barony nearly as old as the Kingdom of England itself. The revival was officially gazetted, heralding a new chapter for a title that has witnessed the passage of more than nine centuries of national life.
This revival is not merely a legal formality; it represents the assumption of a solemn mantle of stewardship. It reaffirms the Barony’s deep-rooted connection to the county of Lincolnshire and its enduring place within the rich tapestry of the nation’s heritage, linking the digital age to the Domesday era.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was first held by Colswein of Lincoln, a significant Norman landowner who possessed some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. The title has since been associated with formidable figures who have shaped English history.
Among its most notable holders was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, a resolute defender of Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges. The lineage later passed through Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. This revival connects the present day directly to that powerful medieval legacy.
## Distinguished Company
The succession of this historic title has been formally recognised, centering on the principal members of The Noble House of Brattleby.
The dignity is now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her Lordship is joined in this new era of stewardship by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. The heir to the Barony is their kinsman, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of an ancient barony of this nature is governed by established legal and heraldic protocols. The process culminates in official recognition by the Crown, the *sine qua non* of such matters.
This recognition was made public through a formal notice in *The London Gazette*, the official public record of the United Kingdom, on 9 September 2022. This announcement serves as the definitive instrument affirming the Barony's revival and the rights of its new holder, ensuring its place is once more formally recorded in the public life of the nation.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Noble House of Brattleby is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, which translates from the Latin as ‘With Fortitude and Honour’. This principle reflects the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and serves as the ethical compass for the family’s modern endeavours.
Separately, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), speaks to a dynamic and forward-looking spirit. It complements the House motto by emphasising the active pursuit of purpose, particularly in the realms of philanthropy and cultural education.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The modern mission of The Noble House of Brattleby is intrinsically linked to charitable service. The House has dedicated its philanthropic efforts to supporting the organisation Healing the Wounded Child, which provides vital therapeutic care to children who have experienced trauma.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the cornerstone of the House's fundraising calendar. The selection of this beneficiary reflects a profound belief in investing in the well-being of the next generation, transforming historical privilege into a tangible force for good.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this new chapter, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To assume this title is to accept a duty of care, not only for a name, but for a history that belongs to Lincolnshire and to England. Our purpose is to ensure this legacy serves the community, upholding the principles of fortitude and honour that have defined it for centuries.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History gives us roots, but our actions define our future. Through our philanthropic work and cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, we aim to build a legacy of positive contribution, demonstrating that to truly live is to strive for the betterment of others.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With the Barony’s revival now secured, The Noble House of Brattleby will focus on expanding its cultural and philanthropic footprint. Plans are underway to further the work of the etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes cross-cultural understanding and refinement.
The House will also continue its unwavering support for Healing the Wounded Child, with the next Winter Banquet already in preparation. This long-term vision ensures that the Barony of Brattleby, a title forged in the Norman era, will be defined in the 21st century by its dedication to service, honour, and community.
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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 dedicated to a modern mission of philanthropy and cultural education. Its primary charitable focus is Healing the Wounded Child, supported by an annual Winter Banquet. The House also presides over The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest dedicated to fostering cultural appreciation and social grace. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to translate its profound historical legacy into a positive and enduring impact on contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, a major landholder whose estates are detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Over its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the 13th-century heroine Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle, and two of the most powerful noblemen of the 14th century, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the Barony was formally revived and its succession recognised in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially confirmed and published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The charitable beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com