# A Statement on the Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby and the County of Lincolnshire
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal reflection on the Barony’s profound and continuous nine-century connection to the county of Lincolnshire, affirming its commitment to honouring this unique historical legacy from its foundation in 1066 to the present day.
## The Occasion
From the London seat of The Noble House of Brattleby, this statement serves to formally acknowledge and celebrate the indivisible bond between the Barony of Brattleby and the county of Lincolnshire. As autumn settles over the historic landscapes of the region, it presents a fitting moment for reflection on a lineage that has shaped, and been shaped by, the county for nearly one thousand years.
The issuance of this reflection underscores the House's belief that an understanding of the past is the *sine qua non* for principled action in the present. It reaffirms that while the House’s duties and philanthropic interests are now international, its deepest roots remain firmly embedded in the soil of Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was crated in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest and granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 meticulously records Colswein’s vast authority, detailing his possession of 56 lordships, the majority of which were strategically located within Lincolnshire, establishing a significant power base in a vital part of the new kingdom.
Through the centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance. Nichola de la Haye, as the 5th Baron, famously held Lincoln Castle for the Crown against rebel barons and French invaders during the First Barons' War. Her courageous defence in 1217 was a pivotal moment, demonstrating the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') long before it became the family's formal motto.
Later, the Barony passed to some of the most powerful nobles in English history, including Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This period placed the Barony at the very heart of royal power and Lancastrian influence, forever cementing its place in the annals of the nation.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is told through the remarkable individuals who have held the title and shaped its destiny. The current House honours the legacy of this distinguished company, which includes, *inter alia*:
- **Colswein of Lincoln**, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a trusted Norman lord tasked by William the Conqueror with securing a significant portion of England. - **Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baron of Brattleby, Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, whose loyalty and military acumen were instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III. - **Henry of Grosmont**, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a renowned soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. - **John of Gaunt**, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster, a son of King Edward III and one of the most influential political figures of the 14th century.
Today, this legacy is carried forward by **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, and her husband, **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**. They are supported in their duties by the heir, **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The legitimacy and continuity of the Barony of Brattleby are upheld by ancient tradition and affirmed by modern protocol. The official recognition by the Crown is a matter of public record, formally noted in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom's official journal of record.
This modern protocol is a contemporary reflection of the feudal oaths of fealty that once bound a baron to the monarch. While the nature of such duties has evolved, the underlying principles of service and loyalty remain. The House interprets its role today not as one of political power, but as a commitment to public service, cultural preservation, and philanthropy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry and mottoes, which serve as a guide for its conduct.
The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates nine centuries of duty. It speaks to a resilience of spirit and an unwavering commitment to integrity, values embodied by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln.
This historical creed is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim reflects a modern, dynamic interpretation of the House's purpose: to actively engage with the challenges of the day and to strive for excellence in service, philanthropy, and cultural stewardship.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In its modern revival, the House has translated its historical duty of care into a focused philanthropic mission. This is most notably expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a significant white-tie gala held to support a chosen charitable beneficiary.
The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma. The selection of this charity reflects the House's belief in targeted, impactful giving that addresses profound societal needs and offers a path toward a more hopeful future for the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's deep-rooted connection to its ancestral home, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> "Lincolnshire is not merely a location on a map for our family; it is the *sine qua non* of our history. From Colswein’s first holdings to the unwavering courage of Nichola de la Haye, the spirit of the county is woven into the very fabric of the Barony. It is a profound responsibility and a great privilege to carry this nine-century legacy forward."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective:
> "Honouring our history requires us to act with fortitude and purpose in the present day. Our work, whether in Lincolnshire, through the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, or in our support for vulnerable children, is animated by the enduring lessons of the past. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means embracing the challenge to make a meaningful difference."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this extraordinary legacy continues to thrive. A significant focus is placed on the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring he understands the history, responsibilities, and ethos of service that the title embodies.
The House will continue to foster its connection with Lincolnshire while pursuing its philanthropic and cultural initiatives, including the annual Winter Banquet and the work of The Brattleby Club. In doing so, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to honour its past, serve the present, and build a lasting legacy for the future.
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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 the modern steward of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to a vision of ‘nobility in action’, blending historical stewardship with contemporary purpose. Its activities are focused on cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Key initiatives include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, and the annual Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala supporting children's charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House is committed to ensuring its ancient legacy serves the public good in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships, primarily in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony passed through some of the most powerful families in England. Notable barons include Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century, and later, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The Barony's history is deeply intertwined with the history of Lincolnshire and the English Crown. The current standing of the title was formally noted in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Formal recognition of the Barony's current status is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (Duke of Lancaster). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com