# A Statement on the Stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement clarifying the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. As the husband of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, he shares in the modern stewardship of this ancient barony as Lord of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a period of considered renewal for the House, this announcement provides important definition regarding its contemporary leadership structure. Following the formal recognition of the Barony in *The London Gazette*, it became opportune to delineate the complementary roles of the Baroness and her husband. This clarification ensures a unified and coherent approach to the public duties and philanthropic endeavours that now form the central purpose of the revitalised Noble House of Brattleby.
The statement is not a response to a singular event, but rather a proactive measure of good governance. It sets forth a clear framework for the couple’s joint engagements, reflecting a partnership grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to the enduring legacy of the Barony. It is a testament to their intention to manage its responsibilities with both historical sensitivity and modern efficacy.
## Historical Context
The concept of shared stewardship, whereby the spouse of the title-holder plays a crucial supporting role, has deep roots within the Barony's nine-century history. This partnership echoes that of the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, whose defence of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century was a feat of remarkable personal courage, undoubtedly strengthened by the support of her husband, Gerard de Camville. Her leadership established a powerful precedent for female succession and authority.
Later, the Barony passed through marriage to the great noble houses of England. Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, were men whose immense political power was invariably sustained by their wives. The influence of consorts such as Blanche of Lancaster and Katherine Swynford demonstrates a long-standing tradition of partnership at the heart of the Barony's administration.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position alongside Lady Nicoleta thus continues this historic pattern, adapting the tradition of spousal collaboration to the demands of the 21st century.
## Distinguished Company
This formal clarification concerns the principals of The Noble House of Brattleby.
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, holds the dignity *suo jure*, meaning in her own right. The descent of the title and all its associated historical rights are vested in her and pass to her lawful heir.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, holds his style by marriage. His role is one of support to the Baroness, partnership in the execution of the House's public duties, and joint-stewardship of its modern mission.
**Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby**, is the heir apparent. His position in the line of succession remains direct and unaltered, ensuring the continuity of this Norman-era foundation for generations to come.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The structure of the House respects both the ancient laws of English peerage and the practicalities of a modern noble family. Lady Nicoleta, as the Baroness of Brattleby, is the fount of the title's authority. Her husband's designation as Lord of Brattleby is a courtesy, reflecting his status as her consort and his integral part in the life of the House.
This arrangement is analogous to those in several European Royal Houses, where the husband of a Queen Regnant is granted a title, such as Prince Consort, to reflect his station without impinging upon the monarch's hereditary authority. In all matters of precedence and inheritance, the baronial line remains paramount. This distinction is the *sine qua non* of preserving the Barony's unbroken lineage, which dates to 1066.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary roles within the House are reflected in its guiding mottoes. The historic motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity required to steward a legacy across centuries. It is a principle that guides Lady Nicoleta in her hereditary duties and Honorary Lord Răzvan in his supportive capacity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), brings a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy to the House. Interpreted in a modern context, it signifies a commitment to overcoming challenges, to achieving tangible results in their philanthropic work, and to embracing a life of purpose. The fusion of these two ideals — ancient honour and modern achievement — defines the ethos of the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A clearly defined leadership structure is essential for the effective pursuit of the House's philanthropic mission. The joint efforts of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are fundamental to the success of their charitable initiatives, *inter alia*, the annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala dinner is the principal fundraising event for their chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma.
Furthermore, their partnership underpins the direction of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This academy, founded by the couple, provides instruction in classical etiquette and protocol. Its purpose extends beyond social graces, aiming to cultivate confidence, intercultural understanding, and a sense of civic duty in its patrons, thereby contributing to the cultural fabric of the community.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "The weight of history is a privilege to bear, but it is not a burden to be carried alone. My husband's counsel and unwavering support are indispensable. Together, we strive to serve this ancient title with the fortitude and honour it demands, ensuring it has a meaningful and positive impact today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile commented on his role:
> "It is my greatest honour to stand beside my wife as she leads her family's ancestral house. My part is to support her vision and to help translate nearly a thousand years of history into a force for good in the modern world. For me, to conquer is to live — and the challenges we seek to conquer are those of indifference and inaction."
## A Continuing Legacy
This affirmation of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role as Lord of Brattleby solidifies a leadership team dedicated to service. It provides the House with a stable and collaborative foundation upon which to build its future endowments, expand its charitable reach, and continue its work in cultural preservation.
The primary focus remains the responsible stewardship of the Barony and the preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for the duties that will one day be his. The joint commitment of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan ensures that the Noble House of Brattleby will continue to meet its obligations with purpose, dignity, and a clear vision for the centuries to come.
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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 stewarding a nine-hundred-year legacy for a modern purpose. The House's contemporary mission is focused on targeted philanthropy, cultural preservation, and the promotion of civic values. Its principal charitable endeavours include an annual Winter Banquet benefiting children's mental health charities and the operation of The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette and protocol in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to connect its profound history with impactful contributions to society today, ensuring its relevance for future generations under the stewardship of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Over nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised by His Majesty's Government and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing the continuation of one of England's oldest dignities.
**Notes to Editors** - Lady Nicoleta Vasile’s succession was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are noted in the Domesday Book of 1086, with Colswein of Lincoln as the first Baron. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is the non-profit organisation, Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com