# A Vision for the Thirteenth Baron of Brattleby
## Dateline + Lead LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today articulated the guiding principles for its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The framework reinforces a nine-hundred-year-old commitment to heritage and public service, charting a course for the future of the ancient Barony.
## The Occasion From the historic seat of the Barony in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has issued this formal communication outlining the formative framework for the future responsibilities of the 13th Baron. The statement is released not amidst grand ceremony, but as a considered and deliberate communication, reflecting the gravity of the subject. It follows an intensive period of consolidation since the Barony’s historic rights were formally recorded in *The London Gazette* in 2022, marking a significant transition from internal revival to defining a clear, public-facing role for the next generation.
The announcement coincides with the quiet beauty of autumn settling over the Lincolnshire Wolds, a traditional season of harvest and reflection. This time of year aptly mirrors the House’s present focus on diligent stewardship and long-term planning. The careful preparation for an heir’s future duties is regarded by the House as a *sine qua non* for the effective continuation of a title that has been interwoven with the fabric of English history for almost a millennium.
## Historical Context The role of the Baron of Brattleby has evolved profoundly since its creation by William the Conqueror in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was a figure of foundational importance, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This extensive holding underscores the strategic importance of the Barony in establishing the new Norman order in one of England’s most significant shires.
Through the centuries, this duty of stewardship has been upheld by a succession of remarkable individuals. In the 13th century, the title was held by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a figure of extraordinary resilience who, as Sheriff of Lincolnshire, famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable opposition during the First Barons’ War. Her command and fortitude serve as an enduring inspiration for the House.
Subsequently, the Barony passed to figures of national and even European consequence. These included, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron, who was created the first Duke of Lancaster and stood as one of the founding Knights of the Order of the Garter. The Barony was later held by his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt—a prince of the blood, father of King Henry IV, and arguably the most powerful magnate in 14th-century England. Whereas these predecessors exercised direct political and military power, the modern Barony translates this inheritance into influence through philanthropy, cultural preservation, and steadfast public service. The vision for Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is to imbue this profound history with a relevant and constructive purpose for the 21st century.
## Distinguished Company The continuity and modern revival of the Barony are guided by its present leadership, whose complementary skills have provided a robust foundation for the future.
The House is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who holds the ancient title in her own right. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who has been the architect of the House’s strategic direction. Their heir, to whom this vision is dedicated, is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
The leadership of Lady Nicoleta has been centred on the meticulous reaffirmation of the Barony’s deep historical foundations, ensuring that every modern action is rooted in its nine-century legacy. Honorary Lord Răzvan, in turn, has implemented a forward-looking programme for the House, establishing structures that ensure its relevance and sustainability. Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is being prepared to synthesise these two vital approaches, ensuring that tradition and innovation are perpetually held in a constructive and respectful balance.
## Ceremonial Protocol The preparation of an heir within a noble house is a process governed by both time-honoured protocol and rigorous modern standards of law and governance. A cornerstone of this process was the formal recognition of the Barony’s rights in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. This notice (ID 4158083) constitutes the official public record of the title's standing, following due and proper investigation, and affirms its place within the framework of English dignities.
The education of the 13th Baron is consequently a comprehensive and demanding undertaking. It involves a deep and scholarly immersion in the history of the title, the constitutional duties associated with the peerage, and the complex ceremonial obligations of the House. This programme of study includes specialist tutelage in heraldry, diplomatic protocol, constitutional history, and the prudent management of historic trusts and philanthropic endowments. His gradual introduction to official duties will take place under the direct supervision of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, ensuring a seamless and well-ordered transmission of leadership.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance The mission and immutable values of the House of Brattleby are encoded in its heraldic achievements, which serve as a visual and philosophical guide. The principal family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), encapsulates the principles that have defined the Barony since its inception.
‘Fortitudine’ directly recalls the extraordinary resilience of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye during the siege of Lincoln Castle. ‘Honore’ speaks to the unwavering integrity and commitment to service that defined chivalric figures like Henry of Grosmont and which remains the guiding standard for the House’s modern purpose. These are not archaic ideals, but active principles of conduct.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This motto reflects the dynamic, resourceful spirit he has brought to the House. It signifies a philosophy focused not on martial conquest, but on overcoming the complex challenges of the modern world—ensuring the Barony thrives (*vivere*), rather than merely survives. For the 13th Baron, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, these twin philosophies of honourable endurance and dynamic action are being instilled as the very bedrock of his future leadership.
## Philanthropic Purpose A central pillar of the 13th Baron’s future role will be the diligent stewardship of the House’s well-established philanthropic and cultural initiatives. The commitment of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan to public service is most publicly expressed through unwavering support for carefully selected charitable causes.
The Annual Winter Banquet, a traditional white-tie gala held in London, serves as the House’s primary philanthropic endeavour. For several years, its dedicated beneficiary has been the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapeutic and long-term psychological support to children who have experienced profound trauma. The decision to support this cause stems from a belief in fostering resilience in the most vulnerable.
In time, the 13th Baron will be expected to assume an increasingly active role in championing this work, both in public and in private. Furthermore, his remit will include fostering the initiatives of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This academy of etiquette and protocol is not merely a finishing school; it functions as a practical instrument of cultural diplomacy, promoting a language of mutual respect and understanding between nations.
## In Their Own Words Reflecting upon this long-term vision, the 12th Baroness and Lord of Brattleby have shared their perspectives on the profound duty of preparing the next generation.
> We are not simply custodians of a title, but stewards of a living, breathing history. Our most solemn duty is to ensure its continuity with purpose. The 13th Baron will inherit not just a name, but a profound responsibility to serve with the same fortitude and honour that has defined this Barony for nearly a thousand years. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> The work undertaken since 2022 has been about building a robust and sustainable foundation for the future. The task now is to build upon that structure. The 13th Baron represents that future; his leadership will be defined by strategic engagement, intellectual rigour, and a duty to ensure our heritage resonates with meaning in a contemporary world. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy The vision articulated today for Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun marks the formal commencement of a new chapter for the Noble House of Brattleby. In the years ahead, he will continue his rigorous preparations, undertaking studies in constitutional history, international diplomacy, non-profit governance, and sustainable estate management—a discipline of particular relevance to the Barony’s roots in Lincolnshire.
He will begin to assume a greater share of public responsibilities alongside the 12th Baroness and Lord of Brattleby, including representing the family at select charitable and cultural events in the United Kingdom, as well as on occasion in Paris and Monaco. This carefully managed apprenticeship will ensure that when the time comes, the leadership of the Barony of Brattleby will continue uninterrupted, upholding its ancient commitment to serve *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its unique nine-century heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of service. Its activities are centred on philanthropy and cultural diplomacy, most notably through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child and its establishment of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House champions the enduring values of duty, integrity, and cultural preservation in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the title has been held by figures of great historical consequence, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and two of the most powerful noblemen of the 14th century: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and father of King Henry IV. The historic rights of the Barony were formally investigated and recognised in modern times, as recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The historic rights of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders have included Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com