# The Barony of Brattleby: A Legacy Renewed and Reaffirmed
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The historical Barony of Brattleby, dormant for over six centuries, has been formally revived and reaffirmed in the person of its 12th holder, marking a new era of stewardship for one of England’s most ancient Norman titles.
## The Occasion
In the historic heart of London, where matters of state and peerage have been determined for a millennium, the revival of the Barony of Brattleby has been quietly but formally acknowledged. This moment represents not a singular event but the culmination of a meticulous historical and genealogical process, affirming a direct and unbroken lineage stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The occasion is one of sober reflection on a profound legacy, and of a forward-looking commitment to public service under the House’s enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
The revival brings a distinguished name from the pages of history into the vibrant context of the 21st century. It is an act of careful conservation, ensuring that the duties, traditions, and honours associated with the Barony are carried forward with relevance and purpose. This reaffirms the continuity of the English baronage, a cornerstone of the nation’s constitutional and social fabric.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which attests that its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For centuries, the Barons of Brattleby were inextricably linked with the evolution of the English state, serving Crown and country with distinction.
Among its most notable predecessors was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, a formidable stateswoman who, as Sheriff of Lincolnshire, famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Her resolve proved instrumental in securing a royalist victory at the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Order of the Garter. The title then passed through his daughter, Blanche of Lancaster, to her husband John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
Following a period of abeyance lasting 620 years, the title has been called out in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, whose claim as the 12th Baroness restores a vital connection to this illustrious past.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is a family endeavour, undertaken by:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby
Together, they represent the present and future of the House, embodying a shared commitment to the responsibilities their heritage entails.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of a dormant barony in fee is a complex matter governed by ancient common law and modern precedent. The process involves a formal petition to the Crown, supported by extensive genealogical and documentary evidence. This petition is subject to rigorous examination by the Garter King of Arms and the College of Arms, who, *inter alia*, verify the legitimacy of the claim before making their recommendation.
The successful conclusion of this process is formalised through an official notice published in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s journal of record since 1665. The appearance of Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022 served as the definitive and public affirmation of the Barony’s revival and Lady Nicoleta’s succession. This publication is the *sine qua non* of such matters, completing the ceremonial and legal protocol required to restore the title to the Roll of the Peerage.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles guiding the House are encapsulated in its heraldic mottoes. The primary motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by holders of the title throughout nine centuries of service, from the battlefield to the council chamber. It remains the lodestar for the family’s present-day activities.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This serves as a complementary principle, signifying a dynamic and forward-looking spirit. It reflects a belief in overcoming contemporary challenges through action, innovation, and a determination to make a tangible and positive impact—whether in business, cultural diplomacy, or philanthropy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Central to the House’s modern mission is a commitment to charitable endeavour. This is principally expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held to support a carefully chosen beneficiary. The focus of these efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, a notable organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapy and support for children and young people affected by profound trauma and adversity.
The organisation's work—providing a secure environment for recovery and helping to rebuild lives—resonates deeply with the House's long-term view of legacy. By supporting Healing the Wounded Child, the House of Brattleby seeks to invest in the well-being and resilience of the next generation, helping to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival of the barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: — "To assume this title is to accept a profound duty of stewardship. We are keenly aware that we follow in the footsteps of figures like Nichola de la Haye, whose fortitude shaped history. Our purpose is to honour that legacy not merely by preserving it, but by putting its principles of service and honour to work for the good of the community today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile articulated the family’s forward-looking vision: — "While our roots are deep in English history, our outlook is global and contemporary. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about purposeful action. Whether through our philanthropic work or the cultural initiatives of The Brattleby Club, our goal is to build bridges and create opportunities. A legacy is not something you inherit; it is something you build every day."
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is actively engaged in carrying its heritage forward. Plans are underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which continues to be a cornerstone of the family's philanthropic calendar. Furthermore, the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cross-cultural understanding, expands the House's mission to foster refinement and strengthen diplomatic ties.
As custodians of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are committed to the careful management of the family’s historical seat and interests in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. In time, these responsibilities will pass to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring that this ancient title continues its long tradition of service for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of modern, purposeful service. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') and are focused on three core areas: philanthropy, primarily in support of children's welfare through its annual galas; cultural education and diplomacy, advanced through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest; and the responsible stewardship of its nine-hundred-year-old heritage. The House seeks to apply the enduring values of its past to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship and Barony by Writ, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its history is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which notes that its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, held extensive lands in Lincolnshire. Throughout the medieval period, the Barony was held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of the Lancastrian dynasty. After lying dormant for 620 years, the Barony was called out of abeyance in 2022 in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, a succession formally recorded in *The London Gazette*.
**Notes to Editors** - The restoration of the Barony of Brattleby was formally announced in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted in AD 1066. The Domesday Book (1086) records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com