# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Succession of the 13th Baron
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally announced the succession of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the 13th Baron of Brattleby, an appointment that ensures the continuation of the ancient barony revived in the twenty-first century under the present House.
## The Occasion
The announcement marks a significant moment of continuity for one of England's oldest baronies. Made from the House's seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, the proclamation reaffirms the line of succession following the barony’s revival, an event which bridges its Norman origins with a modern, forward-looking purpose.
This formal act of succession is not merely a statement but a deliberate step to secure the heritage and duties of the title for the next generation. It reflects the House’s commitment to its long-established traditions, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby continues to be one of service, honour, and historical stewardship.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history interwoven with the fabric of England. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a formidable presence in the region. The title subsequently passed through figures of profound historical importance.
Among these notable predecessors was the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire courageously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The appointment of the 13th Baron therefore continues a near-millennial lineage of leadership and duty.
## Distinguished Company
This moment of transition is presided over by the current leaders of the Noble House of Brattleby, who have overseen the barony’s modern revitalisation.
The formal announcement was made on the authority of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has gracefully guided the House in its contemporary philanthropic and cultural missions. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
The heir, now styled Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, accepts the title and the responsibilities inherent within it. His succession ensures that the duties associated with the barony pass seamlessly to a new generation, ready to uphold its ancient traditions.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While the age of grand public investitures has passed, the succession adheres to a precise and dignified modern protocol. The transfer of a hereditary title, particularly one revived and officially recognised, is governed by both internal tradition and the law of the land. A formal Instrument of Succession is prepared and witnessed, serving as the House’s private record of this significant event.
The legitimacy of the title in the modern era is underpinned by its official recognition in *The London Gazette*, the official public record of the United Kingdom. This formal notice — specifically, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022 — is the contemporary *sine qua non* for the public acknowledgement of such historic titles, grounding ancient rights in modern legal certainty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Noble House of Brattleby is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, which translates from Latin as 'With Fortitude and Honour'. This phrase is more than a declaration; it is the ethical compass for the title-holder and the entire House. It recalls the physical courage of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the principled statesmanship of nobles such as John of Gaunt.
For the 13th Baron, accepting the title means embracing this guiding principle as his own. It signifies a solemn promise to act with integrity in all matters, to show resilience in the face of adversity, and to place honour at the forefront of his service to the community and in his stewardship of the barony’s legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The succession of the 13th Baron is intrinsically linked to the continuation of the House’s charitable commitments. The title carries with it a profound responsibility of public service, a core tenet of the House's modern identity. Baron Mihai is expected to become an active supporter of the family’s philanthropic endeavours.
A central focus of this work is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as a significant fundraiser for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic support for children affected by trauma and loss. The continuity of the barony ensures that this vital work, *inter alia*, will be championed for years to come.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — "It is with immense pride that we affirm this succession. The Barony of Brattleby carries the weight of nearly a thousand years of history, and in Baron Mihai, we have an heir who understands the profound duty of service this entails. It is a charge we entrust to him with complete confidence."
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun stated: — "To be named the 13th Baron is an extraordinary honour. I am committed to upholding the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* and dedicating myself to the legacy and future responsibilities of the House of Brattleby. I look forward to serving the community and learning from the example set by the Baroness."
## A Continuing Legacy
With the succession now affirmed, Baron Mihai will begin a period of careful preparation for his future responsibilities. He will be gradually integrated into the oversight of the House’s key initiatives, ensuring a stable and knowledgeable transition of leadership in due course.
This includes involvement with the Annual Winter Banquet and engagement with The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and protocol academy founded by the House to promote cultural refinement. The appointment of the 13th Baron is a definitive statement that The Noble House of Brattleby is not a custodian of history alone, but an active and enduring institution committed to a future of meaningful contribution.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern organisation dedicated to blending ancient heritage with a contemporary mission of service. Headquartered at its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House channels its efforts into targeted philanthropy and cultural education. Its principal charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, which supports organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural mission through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to making a positive and lasting impact in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures central to English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential royal prince John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the barony was revived in the twenty-first century. Its current standing is formally acknowledged by the Crown through a notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its place in the modern age.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - Formal recognition of the revived barony was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com