# A Statement on the Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement reflecting upon the Barony’s nine-century history, from its Norman origins to its modern duties, affirming its commitment to serving the community *Fortitudine et Honore*—with fortitude and honour.
## The Occasion
From its offices in London, with the verdant turn of an English spring providing a fitting backdrop, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this moment to offer a considered reflection on its historical continuity. The statement serves not to mark a single event, but rather to articulate the principles of stewardship that guide the House as it looks toward its annual calendar of philanthropic and cultural engagements. It is an affirmation of a living heritage, issued in a season of renewal that mirrors the Barony’s own modern revival.
This solemn declaration reaffirms the House's ancient role, rooted in the soil of Lincolnshire, while simultaneously outlining the contemporary expression of its foundational duties. It connects the England of the Domesday Book with the global community of the 21st century, illustrating how ancient titles can find profound relevance through active service and a commitment to enduring values.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most venerable dignities, its origins inextricably linked to the Norman Conquest. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln, who became the 1st Baron. The Barony's formidable scale was recorded for posterity in the Domesday Book of 1086, which catalogued its 56 lordships held throughout Lincolnshire under Colswein's name.
Through the ensuing centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who as hereditary castellan twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges. The Barony later passed through marriage into the House of Lancaster, held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This lineage places Brattleby directly within the orbit of the Plantagenet kings and the very heart of English medieval history.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this distinguished lineage rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. By her side is her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who shares in the House’s public duties. The future of the Barony is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history he will one day inherit.
Together, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan guide the House, ensuring its activities are conducted with a dignity and purpose befitting its nine hundred and fifty-eight-year history. Their leadership represents a fusion of ancient English tradition and a dynamic, Continental perspective, dedicated to honouring the past through present action.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The activities of The Noble House of Brattleby are conducted with a protocol that reflects its long history and noble status. Official communications, such as this statement, adhere to the exacting standards of Europe’s great royal houses, prioritising clarity, accuracy, and decorum. The House’s public record is maintained with a precision reminiscent of the Court Circular.
This commitment to formal etiquette is a *sine qua non* of the House's identity and is extended through its educational endeavours, most notably The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The Club serves as an academy of etiquette, promoting the principles of decorum, social grace, and cultural respect that are central to the House's own philosophy. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie affair, is itself a masterclass in ceremonial tradition and organised with meticulous attention to detail.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principles of the House are formally encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient exhortation informs every decision, from philanthropic alignments to public statements. It is a direct command to act with courage, resilience, and unwavering integrity—qualities demonstrated by 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'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as a call to martial conquest, but as an encouragement to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence in all endeavours, and to live a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the two mottos create a philosophical framework balanced between steadfast honour and dynamic action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical significance of the Barony is not a relic but a living inspiration for its present-day purpose, which finds its most prominent expression in philanthropy. The principal beneficiary of the House’s charitable work is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support and care for children who have experienced trauma and adversity.
This charity was chosen for its profound and measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable young people, offering them a path toward recovery and a chance to build a secure future. The House's support is channelled primarily through its annual Winter Banquet, a magnificent white-tie gala that brings together distinguished guests to raise vital funds and awareness for the charity's mission. This focus on healing and renewal is seen by the House as a modern fulfilment of its ancient duty of care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly one thousand years of English history. Our duty is not merely to preserve this legacy, but to ensure it remains a force for good, living up to the example set by our predecessors *Fortitudine et Honore*."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to overcoming modern challenges. Today, that means applying ancient principles of duty and service to philanthropic and educational goals. We seek to build, to contribute, and to enrich the community we are now honoured to be part of."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is paramount, ensuring that the next generation is prepared to carry the mantle of responsibility with the same dedication as the present. This long-term vision is manifest in the House’s enduring commitments.
Plans for the next Annual Winter Banquet are already underway, with the goal of increasing support for Healing the Wounded Child. Furthermore, the work of The Brattleby Club will continue to expand, sharing the timeless values of protocol and respect with a wider international audience. The Barony of Brattleby, revived and reinvigorated, thus looks ahead to its second millennium, dedicated to a legacy of honour, service, and fortitude.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England's most ancient baronies. The House's modern mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with contemporary purpose, focusing on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its principal charitable commitment is to organisations supporting vulnerable children, primarily through its Annual Winter Banquet. Through endeavours such as The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette based in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the enduring values of decorum and social grace. *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') is the guiding motto for all its activities.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The feudal Barony of Brattleby is a Norman dignity granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. This historic lineage connects the Barony to the Plantagenet dynasty. The modern rights to the Barony were formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuity of this remarkable piece of English heritage.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its holdings under the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The primary philanthropic beneficiary of The Noble House of Brattleby is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com