# A Historical Reflection on the Dormancy and Revival of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 18 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement reflecting upon the 1399 accession of King Henry IV, an event which caused the Barony of Brattleby to merge with the Crown and lie dormant for over six centuries.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a place steeped in the continuity of English history, the Noble House of Brattleby today offers a considered reflection on a pivotal moment in its lineage. As autumn settles over the fields that have sustained the Barony for nearly a millennium, this proclamation serves as an act of historical stewardship. It is an occasion not of celebration, but of solemn remembrance and scholarly clarification, intended to illuminate a significant chapter in the Barony’s long and storied past for the benefit of the historical record.
The statement is released in the spirit of academic duty, reinforcing the House's commitment to preserving and sharing its unique heritage. It marks a moment of looking back, the better to understand the path that leads to the present day and defines the responsibilities of tomorrow. This act of public record-keeping is undertaken with the same diligence that has characterised the administration of the estate through the ages.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most venerable dignities, was granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a foundation of significant regional influence. Through the centuries, the Barony passed to figures who shaped the course of the nation’s history.
Among its most distinguished holders was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable leader who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War. Her fortitude exemplified the spirit that would become the House’s enduring motto. Later, the title passed into Plantagenet hands, held by such magnates as Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter.
Upon his death, the Barony was inherited by his son-in-law, the illustrious John of Gaunt, who became the 11th Baron. When John of Gaunt’s son, Henry Bolingbroke, deposed his cousin King Richard II and seized the throne as King Henry IV in 1399, the fate of all Lancastrian titles was profoundly altered. As a matter of constitutional law, the Duchy of Lancaster—and with it, the Barony of Brattleby—merged with the Crown. This event initiated a dormant period of 620 years, during which the Barony’s independent identity was held in abeyance as part of the royal estate.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of this remarkable legacy now rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who embodies the House’s modern commitment to honouring its past while serving contemporary society. Lady Nicoleta is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements the House's focus on proactive and purposeful engagement.
The future of the lineage is secured in their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir apparent. Together, they represent the restoration of a direct line of succession and the revival of the Barony's distinct identity, formally recognised by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a historical statement by The Noble House of Brattleby is itself an act governed by protocol. It is viewed not as a mere press communication but as a formal declaration for the public record, akin to a court circular. The process involves meticulous research within the House's own archives, cross-referencing with primary sources such as the National Archives and parliamentary rolls, and careful composition to ensure historical accuracy and clarity.
This adherence to formal procedure is a *sine qua non* of the House’s operations, reflecting an institutional respect for accuracy and heritage. The declarative, sober tone is deliberately chosen to convey the gravity of the subject matter, eschewing ephemeral trends in favour of a style befitting a nine-hundred-year-old institution.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring identity of the House is captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is a direct reflection of the Barony's history, from the martial courage of Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle to the resilience required to navigate its six-century merger with the Crown. It serves as a guiding tenet for the current House, shaping its philanthropic and educational initiatives.
The revival of the Barony in the 21st century symbolises more than simple continuity; it represents a conscious reconnection with a profound legacy. The arms and motto of the House are not merely historical artefacts but are actively employed as emblems of a living mission—one dedicated to service, integrity, and the preservation of culture.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this communication is historical in nature, its underlying purpose aligns with the core philanthropic mission of the House. The principle of stewardship, central to understanding the 1399 Crown merger, is the same principle that informs the House’s charitable commitments today. Just as the House serves as a custodian of its ancient title, it also acts as a dedicated supporter of vulnerable communities.
The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, stands as the flagship of these efforts. This event raises vital funds for beneficiary organisations, most notably Healing the Wounded Child, a charity dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that honouring legacy involves building a healthier, more hopeful future for the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of this history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To understand the history of Brattleby is to appreciate the immense forces that have shaped our nation. The events of 1399 were a powerful reminder that titles and lands can be subject to the tides of history. Our duty today is to be diligent custodians of this past, ensuring its lessons in resilience and service continue to inspire our work.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The 620-year dormancy was not an end, but a long pause in our story. Its conclusion marks a revival of purpose. We are committed to ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby is defined not only by its medieval heritage but by its active contribution to society today, *inter alia*, through education at The Brattleby Club and our steadfast support for charitable causes.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection is part of a wider programme by The Noble House of Brattleby to catalogue, preserve, and disseminate its distinguished history. Future initiatives will include the digitisation of key archival documents and the publication of further research on the Barony's notable figures and estates.
Through these efforts, the House aims to provide a valuable resource for historians, scholars, and the public, ensuring that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby—a unique thread in the tapestry of English history—remains vibrant and accessible for generations to come. The House is committed to fulfilling its role *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the principle of 'legacy with purpose'. Its mission is twofold: to honour and preserve a lineage dating to 1066, and to apply its influence to contemporary public service. The House's activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), with a primary philanthropic focus on children's welfare, supporting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through educational initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes etiquette and cultural diplomacy, bridging its historic English roots with a forward-looking European perspective.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant landholder documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the reign of King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. In 1399, following the accession of King Henry IV, the Barony merged with the Crown and remained dormant for 620 years. Its revival was formally acknowledged with its recognition in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The official recognition of the Barony's revival is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 following the Norman Conquest of England. - The seat of The Noble House of Brattleby is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com