# The Enduring Legacy and Modern Purpose of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement reaffirming the enduring historical significance of the Barony and outlining its modern commitment to public service, philanthropy, and the preservation of its nine-hundred-year legacy in Lincolnshire and beyond.
## The Occasion
From its historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken the occasion of the autumn season to reflect upon its ancient duties and articulate its forward-looking vision. This time of year, traditionally one of harvest and preparation, serves as a fitting moment for the House to reaffirm its foundational principles.
The statement was composed not for a specific event, but as a deliberate act of communication, underscoring the continuity that is the *sine qua non* of a barony granted in 1066. It serves as a considered public record of the House’s responsibilities, connecting its deep past with its active role in the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the foundational narrative of England. Granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest, its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a significant presence in the county that endures to this day.
Over nearly a millennium, the title has passed through some of the most influential figures in the nation’s history. These predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as hereditary castellan defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat. His legacy was continued by his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of the English monarchy. This unbroken chain of stewardship informs the duties of the current House.
## Distinguished Company
The responsibilities of the Barony are today upheld by The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of its principal members.
The title is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who directs the House’s cultural and philanthropic endeavours. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. The future of the Barony is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. Together, they guide the House’s contemporary mission.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The modern conduct of the House is governed by a protocol that honours its ancient traditions while meeting contemporary standards of transparency and engagement. All official communications, including today’s statement, are issued under the full coat of arms of the House and bear its motto.
The legal and historical standing of the Barony is a matter of public record, formally acknowledged by the Crown. Its status was most recently recorded by notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, a procedure that affirms the title’s place within the United Kingdom’s honours system. This adherence to official process is a cornerstone of the House's approach to its duties.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottos, which serve as a constant reminder of its guiding principles. The primary motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* — ‘With Fortitude and Honour’. This ancient charge speaks to the resilience and integrity required to steward a title through centuries of profound social and political change.
A personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* — ‘To Conquer is to Live’ — has been adopted by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. This reflects a dynamic, modern interpretation of conquest: not of lands, but of challenges, in the pursuit of philanthropic goals and the active advancement of the House’s mission.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House dedicates its public work to a carefully selected portfolio of charitable causes. The principal beneficiary of its philanthropic activity is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child, which provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma and adversity.
The cornerstone of the House’s fundraising is its Annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala held to support the beneficiary’s vital work. The House has also extended its commitment to social improvement internationally through The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and the development of civil society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy she now holds, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> It is a profound privilege to be the custodian of a title that has been woven into the fabric of English history since 1066. Our duty is not merely to preserve this heritage, but to give it new purpose by dedicating our work to causes that strengthen our communities today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> History provides the foundation, but our vision must be fixed on the future. The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* reminds us that our purpose is to overcome today's challenges with energy and determination, ensuring the Barony remains a force for positive action both in Lincolnshire and farther afield.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to public service and the preservation of its unique heritage. Preparations are currently underway for the Annual Winter Banquet, which continues to be the focal point of the House’s philanthropic calendar.
Through its ongoing work with Healing the Wounded Child and the cultural programmes of The Brattleby Club, the House actively translates its historical legacy into meaningful contemporary action. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensures that this commitment to service, guided by *Fortitudine et Honore*, will continue for the next generation.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a dual mission: the careful stewardship of one of England’s oldest baronies and an active, forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural education. The House’s work is centred on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of charitable organisations, with its Annual Winter Banquet serving as its main philanthropic initiative. With a permanent seat in Lincolnshire and a European perspective fostered through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to bridge its profound historical legacy with a tangible, positive impact on contemporary society, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding a significant portfolio of 56 lordships. Over its nine-and-a-half-century history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, one of the most powerful men of the 14th century. As one of the few feudalities to have survived into the modern era, its historical and legal standing was formally noted by The Crown in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's establishment and lineage are officially recorded, with its current status noted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in 1066. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the Domesday Book (1086) as a tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors holding the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com