# The Enduring Spirit of Chivalry: Lady Nicoleta Vasile Delivers Lecture on the Historical Ethos of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, delivered a historical lecture this evening at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, exploring how the chivalric ethos of her medieval predecessors continues to inform the House’s modern commitment to philanthropy and honour.
## The Occasion
In the elegant surroundings of The Brattleby Club’s salon, located in the heart of Bucharest’s historic centre, members and distinguished guests gathered for an address entitled, *Chivalry and Service: The Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby*. The evening's lecture was part of the Club’s ongoing cultural programme, which aims to explore the rich tapestry of European history and its contemporary relevance.
The atmosphere was one of quiet erudition, as attendees assembled beneath the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. The event provided a moment of scholarly reflection, drawing a direct line from the Barony’s feudal origins to its current role as a modern noble house dedicated to public service.
## Historical Context
In her address, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, focused on the profound influence of the crusading era on the identity of the Barony. Central to her discourse was William II Longespée, the 6th Baron, a notable figure of the 13th century whose participation in the Seventh Crusade exemplified the era’s highest ideals of chivalric endeavour. Lady Nicoleta explained how this spirit elevated the Barons of Brattleby from mere Lincolnshire landholders to participants in a grand, international Christian movement.
This legacy of service on a wider stage was not an isolated episode. The Barony’s history is interwoven with figures of national significance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, further cementing the Barony’s connection to the very heart of English history.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance to support Lady Nicoleta was her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, and their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
They were joined by an assembly of notable figures, including senior members of the Romanian academic community, patrons of The Brattleby Club, and select members of the diplomatic corps present in Bucharest. The presence of such guests underscored the lecture’s significance as a moment of cultural and historical dialogue.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The evening adhered to a formal but welcoming protocol. Guests were received in the Club’s foyer before being invited to take their seats in the main salon. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile provided a brief introduction, outlining the historical importance of the topic before formally presenting Lady Nicoleta.
The lecture, which lasted approximately 45 minutes, was followed by a moderated question-and-answer session, allowing for an engaging exchange with the audience. The proceedings concluded with a reception, where conversation continued in a more informal setting. The dress code for the occasion was Lounge Suit, reflecting the dignified yet academic nature of the event.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes of the lecture resonated deeply with the House’s heraldic principles. The motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was presented by Lady Nicoleta as the enduring thread connecting the actions of her predecessors to the mission of the House today. The fortitude of a crusading knight, she argued, finds its modern expression in the resilience required for meaningful philanthropic work.
Similarly, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), was interpreted not in a martial sense, but as the will to overcome adversity and challenges in the pursuit of a greater good. Together, these mottos form the philosophical bedrock of the House’s identity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While not a fundraising event, the lecture served a crucial philanthropic purpose: to articulate the moral and historical foundation for the House’s charitable activities. By exploring the concept of chivalric duty, Lady Nicoleta framed the House’s support for its primary beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, as a modern continuation of a centuries-old obligation of service.
Healing the Wounded Child is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. The choice of this beneficiary is, in the House’s view, a direct application of the protective and supportive duties inherent to the chivalric code. The lecture served to reinforce that the House’s philanthropy is not incidental, but a *sine qua non* of its existence.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical legacy of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > To understand our present duty, we must first appreciate the principles of our forebears. The chivalric code of the 13th century, as embodied by the 6th Baron, was not merely about martial prowess; it was a profound commitment to service, faith, and honour—a commitment that transcends time.
Connecting this heritage to the present day, she added: > The expression of this commitment changes with each generation. Where a crusader once took up a sword for a cause, we now deploy resources, advocacy, and education. The spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore*, however, remains the unwavering constant that guides our work.
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical lecture is the first in a planned series at The Brattleby Club, which will continue to explore themes of European heritage, noblesse oblige, and the role of tradition in modern society.
The principles articulated in the lecture will find their most prominent practical expression at the House’s Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie philanthropic gala serves as the primary fundraising event for Healing the Wounded Child, translating the historical ideal of service into measurable, contemporary impact. The upcoming banquet will, therefore, be a direct continuation of the mission discussed this evening.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern noble house dedicated to a dual mission. It actively preserves the nearly thousand-year heritage of one of England’s oldest baronies while championing contemporary philanthropy and cultural education in Europe. Through initiatives such as its annual white-tie gala for charity and The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to demonstrate that ancient titles can serve a profound and practical purpose in the 21st century. The House is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), applying historical principles of service to modern challenges.
**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 as the lord of 56 manors. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the renowned female defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The modern succession of the Barony to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), and Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com