# The Noble House of Brattleby: A New Chapter in a Nine-Hundred-Year Legacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today formally marks the continuation of its ancient lineage following the 2022 revival of the Barony of Brattleby, first granted in 1066, appointing Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the twelfth holder of the historic title.
## The Occasion
The formal revival of the Barony of Brattleby represents a moment of profound historical continuity. The act was officially entered into the public record through its publication in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, an instrument of state that has served as the United Kingdom's journal of record since 1665. This notice confirmed the Barony’s re-establishment after a dormancy of more than six centuries.
This solemn administrative act has breathed new life into an ancient lineage, bridging the span of English history from the Norman Conquest to the present day. It reaffirms the enduring nature of heritage while establishing a modern foundation for service, duty, and cultural ambassadorship in the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the very fabric of Lincolnshire and the nation. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, the Barony's lands encompassed 56 lordships held by its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, a direct tenant-in-chief of William the Conqueror. This direct grant from the Crown established a lineage of significant historical import.
Over the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national consequence. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who as Constable of Lincoln Castle famously defended it against French-backed rebels in 1217. Later holders such as Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, placed Brattleby at the centre of royal power. The revival ensures this distinguished history now informs a future guided by the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony now rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A respected figure in her own right, Lady Nicoleta brings a Continental perspective and a deep appreciation for cultural heritage to her role.
She is supported by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects a dynamic approach to modern challenges and opportunities. The future of the lineage is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The re-establishment of a dormant barony follows exacting legal and heraldic protocol. The process, culminating in the notice published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083), serves as official and public confirmation of the title’s revival and its rightful holder. This formal recognition is the *sine qua non* of peerage continuity.
In accordance with tradition, Lady Nicoleta assumes the style and title of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. This adherence to protocol ensures that the revival is not merely symbolic but is integrated respectfully within the United Kingdom's historic framework of honours. The House observes these traditions with the precision and solemnity befitting a title of such antiquity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. This Latin phrase, meaning ‘With Fortitude and Honour’, serves as the guiding principle for all of the House’s endeavours. It speaks to the resilience shown by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the integrity expected of its modern representatives.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere*. Translated as ‘To Conquer is to Live’, it signifies a commitment to active, purposeful engagement with the world—not through conflict, but through overcoming challenges in the service of philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Together, the mottos symbolise a synthesis of dutiful tradition and dynamic, forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central tenet of the modern House is the belief that heritage must be animated by service. The primary philanthropic focus is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing vital therapeutic services and safe environments for children who have experienced profound trauma.
The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House’s commitment to addressing fundamental human needs and fostering resilience in the most vulnerable. Proceeds from the banquet directly fund specialist care, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby contributes to a tangible and positive impact on society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > We feel not ownership of this title, but a profound sense of stewardship. Our duty is to honour its nine-hundred-year history by ensuring it serves a purpose in the present, particularly through our commitments here in Lincolnshire and our charitable work. It is a privilege to connect the past to a future of meaningful service.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > A title finds its truest meaning in action. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about embracing the challenges of our time with energy and resolve. Whether through philanthropy or cultural education, our ambition is to translate the immense heritage of Brattleby into a living, breathing force for good.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building a robust and enduring legacy. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the principles of duty and service is a foremost priority, ensuring seamless continuity for the generation to come.
The House’s international vision is embodied by The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy established in Bucharest. This initiative serves as a cultural bridge, sharing the codes of European social tradition and diplomacy with a new generation of leaders. It is a testament to the House's belief in heritage as a tool for global understanding and personal development, securing the relevance of the Barony of Brattleby for the centuries ahead.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of a nine-hundred-year-old heritage. With a focus on philanthropy, cultural education, and diplomatic exchange, the House translates its historic legacy into active service. Its principal charitable endeavour is the support of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing care for traumatised children. The House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), guides its commitment to duty, while its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, foster cross-cultural understanding. Fusing English tradition with a Continental European perspective, the House is committed to ensuring its ancient title serves a tangible, positive purpose in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships directly from the King. Through its long history, the Barony passed to some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III and 11th Baron. After lying dormant for over 600 years, the Barony was formally revived in 2022 and its revival published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083), with Lady Nicoleta Vasile becoming the 12th Baroness.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially confirmed and published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, with its lands held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's philanthropic efforts are centred on the Annual Winter Banquet, which raises funds for the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com