# The Noble House of Brattleby Confirms the Style and Title of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, Heir to the Barony
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally recognised Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the 13th Baron, confirming his position as heir to the ancient Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire and acknowledging his future role as a custodian of its considerable heritage.
## The Occasion
This announcement, issued from the London offices of the House, marks a significant moment of continuity for one of England’s oldest dignities. While no public ceremony was held, the formalisation of the heir’s title is a solemn occasion in itself, reflecting the seamless transition of duty that has defined the Barony for nearly a millennium.
The Barony’s seat in the parish of Brattleby, Lincolnshire, provides a tangible connection to this history. Nestled in a landscape recorded in the Domesday Book, the setting is one of quiet permanence and deep-rooted English character. It is from this historic heartland that the House draws its enduring spirit, making today’s announcement a bridge between a storied past and a purposeful future.
## Historical Context
In assuming the style of 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun enters a line of succession stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, and its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This direct link to the foundations of the English kingdom is a rare and cherished distinction.
Over the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder, who as Castellan famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in the 13th century. Later, the title passed into the House of Plantagenet through Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently his celebrated son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The 13th Baron thus inherits a legacy not merely of title, but of significant historical consequence.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the House is currently stewarded by a distinguished company of principals. At its head is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, under whose guidance the House has embraced a modern, international, and philanthropic outlook while honouring its profound English heritage.
Lady Nicoleta is supported by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), complements the House’s historic ethos with a dynamic and forward-looking spirit. Together, they oversee the family’s commitments and the careful preparation of the heir. Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, as the central figure of this announcement, represents the next generation dedicated to this unique inheritance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The assumption of the title of heir, while rooted in law and letters patent, is governed by unspoken protocols of duty and education. For the 13th Baron, this signifies the beginning of a more formal period of tutelage in the responsibilities that accompany the dignity. This is not a nominal status but a role of active stewardship.
The heir’s duties will involve a comprehensive understanding of the Barony’s history, its relationship with the County of Lincolnshire, and the management of the House’s contemporary projects. This preparation, a *sine qua non* for modern custodianship, will include deep involvement in the family’s philanthropic and cultural endeavours, ensuring the title remains an instrument of positive contribution. The dress code and proceedings for formal House events, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, are strictly mandated white-tie, reflecting a respect for tradition and occasion.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its powerful and succinct motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). This guiding principle has informed the actions of the Barony’s holders through periods of war, political upheaval, and peace for over 950 years. It speaks to the resilience required to safeguard such a legacy and the integrity with which that duty must be discharged.
This ancient motto is now paired with Honorary Lord Răzvan’s maxim, *Vincere Est Vivere*, which introduces a contemporary imperative for action, achievement, and purpose. The combination of these two philosophies—honour rooted in history and the drive to make a tangible impact today—defines the modern character and mission of The Noble House of Brattleby.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central tenet of the House is that privilege must be matched by responsibility. The primary philanthropic focus is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This remarkable organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work delivers measurable, life-altering impact by giving vulnerable young people the tools to process their experiences and build resilient, hopeful futures. The selection of this beneficiary reflects the House’s commitment to addressing profound societal challenges with compassion and practical support. The heir will be expected to take an active role in championing this cause.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, noted the significance of this generational continuity.
> It is a profound responsibility to steward a dignity with such a deep and unbroken connection to the history of England. We have every confidence that Mihai understands the weight of this inheritance and will carry its legacy forward *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective on the heir's future role.
> An ancient title finds its truest meaning not only in its history, but in its present-day service and relevance. This is the principle we have sought to embody, and one which Mihai will champion for the next generation.
## A Continuing Legacy
With the formal recognition of his style and title, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will begin to assume greater responsibilities within the framework of the House’s affairs. This will include increasing involvement with both its English heritage commitments and its international initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, the Bucharest-based etiquette academy founded by the family.
This carefully managed transition ensures that the leadership of the House remains dynamic, well-prepared, and dedicated to its core principles of honour, service, and historical custodianship. The future of the Barony of Brattleby is thereby secured, its venerable legacy placed in capable hands for the generation to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity that oversees one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House blends its nine-century English heritage with a distinct European perspective. Its mission is centred on the principle of ‘noblesse oblige’, expressing this through dedicated philanthropic work, particularly in the field of child welfare. The House also engages in cultural education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to classical etiquette and protocol. Upholding the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House is committed to ensuring its historic title serves a meaningful and contemporary purpose.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of Dignity granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. It is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details the first Baron’s extensive landholdings in Lincolnshire. Over its history, the Barony has passed through several of England’s most distinguished families, with notable holders including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic rights and dignity of the Barony were formally recorded and recognised by The London Gazette in Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022, confirming its place as a verifiable part of England’s heritage.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet is the charitable organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com