# A Statement on the Historical Context of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement providing historical context for the Barony of Brattleby’s dormant period. This clarification underscores the nine-century lineage of the title and frames the responsibilities inherent in its modern revival.
## The Occasion
In the interest of historical clarity and public record, the Office of the Lord and Lady of Brattleby has chosen to address the 620-year period during which the Barony of Brattleby lay dormant. This communication is not prompted by a singular event, but rather by a sense of duty to the title's long history. It serves to properly contextualise the Barony's revival as a continuation of, rather than a departure from, its distinguished past.
The decision to issue this statement reflects a commitment to stewardship. The House recognises that titles of such antiquity are not merely personal possessions but are woven into the fabric of national heritage. Therefore, providing an accurate and dignified account of its journey through the centuries is considered a fundamental responsibility.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, enjoyed an unbroken line of succession for more than three centuries. Its history is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which notes 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. The lineage continued through figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War.
The Barony's active succession paused in 1399 following the death of its 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. Upon his death, his son and heir, Henry Bolingbroke, ascended the throne as King Henry IV, at which point the Barony of Brattleby, along with the other Lancastrian titles, merged with the Crown. For the ensuing six centuries, while the lands and community of Brattleby thrived, the peerage itself remained in abeyance—a historic interlude that concluded with its modern restitution.
## Distinguished Company
The current House holds its position in the shadow of remarkable predecessors, whose legacies inform its present-day duties. This 'distinguished company' across the centuries includes, *inter alia*:
* **Nichola de la Haye** (c. 1150–1230), the 5th Baroness, who as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire inherited her husband's command of Lincoln Castle and twice defended it against baronial rebels, acting as a key and loyal supporter of King John and the young King Henry III.
* **Henry of Grosmont** (c. 1310–1361), the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. A celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, he was one of the most trusted and capable nobles of his generation, serving King Edward III with great distinction.
* **John of Gaunt** (1340–1399), the 11th Baron, Duke of Lancaster, and son of King Edward III. As one of the wealthiest and most influential men of his age, his descendants would form the Royal House of Lancaster, contending for the throne in the Wars of the Roses.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The modern revival of the Barony adheres to the highest standards of legal and ceremonial protocol, a process *sine qua non* for a title of such antiquity. The formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in The Crown's journal of record, *The London Gazette*, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
This public notice is the modern equivalent of a historic writ of summons, providing indisputable legal standing and ensuring the revival is conducted with the full sanction of established authorities. The House of Brattleby considers this adherence to formal procedure an essential act of respect for both the institution of the peerage and the rule of law that governs it.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottos, which serve as guiding principles. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to its history. 'Fortitude' reflects the resilience required to endure centuries of dormancy, while 'Honour' dictates the manner in which the Barony must be stewarded today—with integrity, dignity, and a profound sense of duty.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but in a modern, civic context: to overcome apathy, to find solutions to societal challenges, and to live a life of purpose and positive impact through action and service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony of Brattleby is not an end in itself but a means to a greater purpose: focused, effective philanthropy. The House has consciously directed its energies and platform toward charitable endeavours, believing that nobility obliges service. This commitment finds its primary expression in the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in support of a chosen beneficiary.
The principal beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support and care for children who have experienced trauma and adversity. The choice reflects the House's belief in investing in the future generation, ensuring that the most vulnerable are given the opportunity to heal and thrive. The work is tangible, measurable, and aligns with the House's mission to create a lasting, positive legacy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's historical journey, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "To hold a title once borne by figures like John of Gaunt is a profound responsibility. One feels less an owner and more a custodian. Our duty is not only to honour this remarkable nine-hundred-year history but to ensure the Barony is a force for good in the present day. That is the essence of *Fortitudine et Honore*."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "History provides our foundation, but our focus must be on the future. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about purposeful action. Through our philanthropic work and the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, we aim to build a legacy of positive contribution that will, we hope, stand the test of time."
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring a long and active future for the Barony. With the formal designation of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the 13th Baron and heir, the line of succession is secured, providing continuity for the generations to come.
The immediate future will see an expansion of the House’s philanthropic initiatives and the continued development of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to promoting cultural and social refinement. The revival of the Barony was the beginning of a new chapter, and the House is dedicated to writing it with purpose, service, and an unwavering respect for its past.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of modern nobility rooted in philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its primary charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, manifested through events such as the Annual Winter Banquet for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The House also operates The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy promoting etiquette and intercultural understanding. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting its commitment to principled service and historical integrity.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship seated in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its creation is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which attributes 56 lordships to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. For over three centuries, the Barony was held by influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Following John of Gaunt's death in 1399, the title merged with the Crown and remained dormant for 620 years. Its revival was formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com