# A Formal Affirmation of Heritage and Continuity for the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 2 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the second anniversary of the formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, securing the legal continuity of the ancient Lincolnshire barony for future generations.
## The Occasion
The formal confirmation of a title, granted on behalf of the Crown, is a moment of profound legal and historical significance. Its publication in *The London Gazette*—the official journal of record for the United Kingdom since 1665—is not a ceremony of pomp and circumstance, but rather a solemn administrative act that carries the full weight of sovereign authority.
The notice, bearing the reference ID 4158083 and dated 9 September 2022, serves as the definitive and unimpeachable statement of rightful succession. It represents the culmination of a meticulous process, affirming the revival of the Barony of Brattleby after a period of dormancy and providing the legal keystone for the House’s modern endeavours. In the quiet, official pages of the *Gazette*, a nine-century story found its modern voice.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby possesses a lineage that extends to the very foundations of post-Conquest England. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, who, by the time of the *Domesday Book* survey in 1086, commanded 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This formal recognition connects Lady Nicoleta directly to this unbroken chain of stewardship.
Through the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron who as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire successfully defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. The title later passed to the Plantagenet royal family, held by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This 2022 recognition therefore reaffirms a legacy interwoven with the history of the nation itself.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony today rests with a dedicated family, ensuring both stability and a forward-looking vision.
At the head of the House is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who bears the primary responsibility for its heritage and modern mission. Her Ladyship is supported in all matters by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
The line of succession is secured through their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron of Brattleby. This structure provides a clear framework for the long-term governance and continuity of the House and its responsibilities.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The process of formally recognising a peerage title is one of legal precision rather than public pageantry. It involves extensive genealogical and historical research presented to the appropriate authorities, who act under the prerogative of the Crown. Once a claim is verified, its public announcement occurs through a formal notice in *The London Gazette*.
This publication serves as the official, permanent record of the state's decision. It is the *sine qua non* of official validation, confirming the holder’s rights and placing the succession on an irrefutable legal footing. For the House of Brattleby, this gazetting was the final, definitive act that formally revived the Barony and vested it in Lady Nicoleta.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided the Barony through nearly a millennium of English history, encapsulating a commitment to resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering dedication to duty. It is a philosophy inherited directly from predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to a dynamic and proactive spirit. Together, these complementary philosophies reflect the House’s modern character: a profound respect for historic duty, combined with the drive to engage meaningfully with the challenges of the contemporary world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
This formal recognition is far more than a matter of historical record; it is the foundational mandate for the House’s extensive charitable and cultural work. A secure and officially recognised title provides the necessary standing and stability to convene, support, and champion important causes.
The House’s primary philanthropic focus is demonstrated through its Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as a significant fundraiser for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The charity works to provide therapeutic support for children affected by trauma. The recognition strengthens the House's capacity to host such events and lend its name to this vital work.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the recognition, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan shared their perspectives.
> "Receiving this formal recognition is less a personal honour and more a profound public duty. It provides the firmest possible ground upon which we may continue the work of this House, serving our community with the same fortitude that has defined the Barony for centuries." > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> "My role is to support Her Ladyship as she stewards this remarkable legacy. This official acknowledgement allows the House to move forward with confidence, ensuring that its historical heritage inspires our current and future commitments." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
With its legal standing formally affirmed, The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building upon its legacy of service. Under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta and with the support of Honorary Lord Răzvan, the House will continue to expand its philanthropic portfolio and cultural initiatives, including the work of The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest.
The focus remains on responsible stewardship, ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby not only preserves its distinguished history but also serves as a force for good in the present. The preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensures that this commitment to heritage and honour will be carried forward for the generation to come.
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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 dedicated to marrying its ancient heritage with a modern mission of public service. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House focuses on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its principal charitable endeavour is the support of ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ through the Annual Winter Banquet, a cornerstone of its social calendar. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also seeks to promote cultural and social refinement. The House is committed to stewarding the nearly thousand-year-old legacy of the Barony for the benefit of the wider community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of Lincolnshire's most ancient feudal dignities. Its existence is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. Over nine centuries, its holders have included pivotal 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 King Henry IV. After a period of dormancy, the Barony was formally revived and its succession confirmed in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, by a notice in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) published on behalf of the Crown on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The principal seat of the Barony is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com