# An Official Statement on the Formal Recognition of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 9 September 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby reflects today on the formal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby, granted in AD 1066. This follows the official notice published one year ago in *The London Gazette*, solidifying a nine-century legacy for its present holder.
## The Occasion
This statement marks the first anniversary of the notice of recognition published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. As the United Kingdom's oldest continuously published journal of record, *The London Gazette* has served as the traditional medium for state, parliamentary, and royal announcements since its first publication on 7 November 1665.
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 confirmed the succession of the Barony of Brattleby for its twelfth holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile. This legal and historical milestone served not as a creation, but as a formal affirmation of an ancient title's uninterrupted descent, bridging the age of William the Conqueror with the legal and constitutional frameworks of the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest recorded lordships in England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 following the Norman Conquest. Its existence and importance were documented twenty years later in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. More recent predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, the great 10th Baron who became the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, John of Gaunt, the powerful 11th Baron and son of King Edward III. This confirmation reaffirms Lady Nicoleta's place in this distinguished lineage.
## Distinguished Company
The process of affirming the Barony's succession involved the dedicated work of several respected bodies and individuals. Central to this were the Officers of Arms at His Majesty's College of Arms in London, whose genealogical and heraldic expertise is a *sine qua non* for such matters.
The final confirmation was officially recorded and published by the dedicated team at *The London Gazette*, acting in their capacity as the official public record. The legal process formally acknowledged the succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby; her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage; and the heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of a hereditary title is a matter of exacting protocol, governed by English law and ancient custom. The process requires the presentation of extensive, unbroken documentary evidence — *inter alia*, birth records, marriage certificates, and property deeds — tracing a direct line of succession from the previous holder.
This body of evidence is painstakingly examined by the Kings of Arms, Heralds, and Pursuivants of the College of Arms. Only upon their satisfaction that the claim is proven is a submission made for official notice. The subsequent publication in *The London Gazette* is the final, formal step, serving as a public and permanent record of the rightful succession. This procedure ensures the integrity and historical authenticity of the nation's dignities.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Noble House of Brattleby is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, which translates from Latin as 'With Fortitude and Honour'. This principle reflects the historical responsibilities of the Barony: the fortitude required to defend and steward its lands, as demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye, and the honour expected of those in service to their community and Sovereign.
This ancient duty is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents a modern, dynamic philosophy of overcoming challenges and embracing purposeful action, a spirit that enriches the House's contemporary mission. Together, these mottos symbolise a commitment to uphold a profound legacy while actively shaping a meaningful future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The formal recognition of the Barony provides an enduring platform from which the House can expand its philanthropic commitments. The title is not an end in itself but a vehicle for service, enabling a more focused and effective approach to charitable duty in line with the principle of *noblesse oblige*.
The House's primary philanthropic endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that benefits Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides essential therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, offering them pathways to recovery and resilience. The Barony's patronage allows for greater awareness and sustained financial support for this vital work.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the recognition, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> "To see one's name formally entered into a ledger of history that includes figures like John of Gaunt is profoundly humbling. This is not a personal achievement but a solemn responsibility. Our duty is to honour this nine-hundred-year inheritance through dedicated service and to ensure Brattleby's legacy continues with fortitude and honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "It is my privilege to support the Baroness in her historic role. Our joint purpose is to ensure the House is a force for good in the modern world. By uniting its deep-rooted traditions with a forward-looking vision, we can build a legacy of positive impact that will endure for generations to come."
## A Continuing Legacy
With the succession formally secured, the Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to its future responsibilities. The education and preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is of paramount importance, ensuring a seamless continuation of the lineage into its tenth century.
The House will also deepen its cultural and charitable work. This includes the expansion of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to promoting cultural diplomacy and social refinement. Furthermore, the House will continue to identify and support charitable causes where its patronage can provide measurable and lasting benefit, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby remains a symbol of active contribution to society.
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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 stewarding one of England's most ancient baronies. The House's contemporary mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with a commitment to modern philanthropic duty and cultural engagement. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include its patronage of vital children's charities through the annual Winter Banquet and the promotion of cultural diplomacy through The Brattleby Club. The House is committed to ensuring its legacy is one of active service, social responsibility, and the preservation of a unique nine-century heritage for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony located in Lincolnshire, England. Its existence and holdings under the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its history, the Barony has passed through several of England’s most distinguished noble families. Notable holders have included the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, the renowned Plantagenet prince John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. After a period of dormancy, the Barony's succession was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby's succession was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com