# A Statement on the Modern Era of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the continuing stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, whose formal recognition in 2022 ushered in a new era of cultural and philanthropic initiatives for the ancient Lincolnshire barony.
## The Occasion
The formalisation of the succession of the Barony of Brattleby, confirmed by notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, was an occasion of quiet constitutional significance rather than public ceremony. This administrative act represented the seamless continuation of a noble title first created in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest.
It marked the moment Lady Nicoleta Vasile formally assumed the responsibilities of the barony, which has its seat in the historic Lincolnshire village of Brattleby. This transition has provided the impetus for a renewed focus on the House’s dual obligations: to preserve its near-millennial heritage in England, and to expand its modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service at home and abroad.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English history, with its origins recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The survey detailed 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, a direct tenant-in-chief of William the Conqueror. This places the Barony among the oldest continuous dignities in the United Kingdom.
Lady Nicoleta’s tenure adds a new chapter to a lineage distinguished by remarkable forebears. She follows in the footsteps of figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French and rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Other notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the course of the English monarchy. It is this legacy of fortitude and duty that informs the Barony’s present course.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is a shared endeavour led by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her Ladyship is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who holds the title Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan plays an integral role in the strategic direction and philanthropic outreach of the House.
The future of the Barony is secured in the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron. Together, they guide the activities of The Noble House of Brattleby, ensuring that its ancient traditions are harmonised with a contemporary, forward-looking perspective.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the modern age, the transfer of ancient titles such as the Barony of Brattleby is governed by established legal and administrative protocols. The *sine qua non* of this process is the official notice published in *The London Gazette*, one of the official journals of record of His Majesty's Government.
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022 served as the definitive, public confirmation of Lady Nicoleta’s succession. This process, while devoid of medieval pomp, is no less significant; it represents the formal recognition by The Crown of the holder’s rights and responsibilities. This adherence to protocol underscores the Barony’s enduring place within the constitutional framework of the United Kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is anchored in its historic coat of arms and motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). This guiding principle directly reflects the steadfastness of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the chivalric code embodied by Henry of Grosmont. It serves as a daily reminder of the character expected of the Barony’s holder.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This Continental perspective speaks not to military conquest, but to the overcoming of challenges and the active pursuit of a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the two mottos symbolise the House’s commitment to honouring past duties while energetically shaping its future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Central to the mission of the modern House is a profound commitment to philanthropy. The Barony is a platform for service, a principle expressed most prominently through the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the cornerstone of the House's charitable calendar, bringing together distinguished guests in support of a chosen beneficiary.
For several years, this beneficiary has been the international foundation Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides critical therapeutic support and safe environments for children who have experienced trauma, conflict, or profound loss. The House of Brattleby was drawn to its mission for its tangible, measurable impact and its alignment with the core values of compassion and responsibility. Further cultural work is undertaken through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest which promotes cross-cultural understanding.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To inherit a title nearly one thousand years old is to accept a profound duty of care. It is not a possession, but a stewardship. My focus is to ensure that the legacy of Brattleby continues to be one of honour, service, and relevance in the twenty-first century."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "We have a unique opportunity to bridge the deep-rooted traditions of Lincolnshire with a wider, European perspective. Whether through our philanthropic work or cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, our goal is to build upon this history with purpose. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about actively shaping that legacy."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to strengthening the tangible and intangible heritage of the Barony. This includes the preservation of its historical connections to Lincolnshire and the continuation of its charitable commitments. Planning for the next Annual Winter Banquet is already underway, with the aim of increasing support for Healing the Wounded Child.
In the coming years, the House will also expand the work of The Brattleby Club, fostering greater cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Guided by *Fortitudine et Honore*, the 12th Baroness and her family will continue to ensure that the Barony of Brattleby serves as a force for good, honouring its past while investing in its future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern activities and responsibilities associated with the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural preservation, philanthropic service, and the promotion of traditional etiquette. Its primary charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, realised chiefly through its Annual Winter Banquet for the benefit of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also works to foster international dialogue and cultural appreciation, blending its ancient English heritage with a contemporary, outward-looking European perspective, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most historic noble titles, with its origins documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. Situated in Lincolnshire, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle, and two founding Knights of the Garter, Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The succession of the title is a matter of public record, with the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, formally recognised as the 12th Baroness in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was first established in AD 1066 and its holdings are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The Noble House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com