# The Barony of Brattleby: A Renewal of Ancient Dignity
**LONDON, 16 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the historic revival of the Barony of Brattleby, confirmed on 9 September 2022. This formal recognition marks a new chapter for one of England's oldest dignities, connecting its Norman foundation to a modern mission of service.
## The Occasion
The revival of the Barony, following a period of 623 years in abeyance, was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom's official journal of record since 1665. The publication of Notice ID 4158083 served as the definitive public announcement, an act that is the *sine qua non* for the official recognition of such ancient titles. This moment represents not merely a legal proceeding but the careful reconnection of a contemporary house with a lineage stretching back to the Domesday Book of 1086. The act of revival is viewed by the House as the assumption of a solemn duty to preserve and animate a significant element of Lincolnshire's heritage.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing a formidable presence in the region. The title subsequently passed through some of the most influential figures in English history. These have included, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War.
Later, the dignity was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, a celebrated commander in the Hundred Years' War and the first Duke of Lancaster. His legacy passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and a pivotal political figure of the 14th century. The assumption of the title by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, after such a long interval, is a testament to the enduring nature of these historic lines and a conscious effort to honour their contributions.
## The Principals of the House
At the centre of this revival are the principals of The Noble House of Brattleby.
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, formally leads the House. By assuming the dignity, she accepts the mantle of stewardship passed down from her distinguished predecessors.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, by marriage to the Baroness, supports the House's public and philanthropic duties. He brings a distinct vision to its modern mission, guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*.
**Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby**, is the heir to the dignity. His future role ensures the continuity of the Barony's responsibilities and its engagement with the community for the generation to come.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol for reviving a barony in abeyance is rooted in English law and custom, requiring meticulous genealogical proof and formal petition. Once the Crown, through its designated authorities, determines the legitimacy of a claim, the official act of recognition is completed through a public announcement in *The London Gazette*. This modern protocol serves the same function as historic ceremonies of investiture: it provides an unimpeachable public record of the transfer and continuity of a dignity. For the House, this process was undertaken with a profound sense of respect for the traditions it represents, ensuring every step was executed with precision and historical fidelity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle reflects the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and the chivalric code upheld by Henry of Grosmont. It serves as a constant reminder of the duties inherent in the title: to act with courage in the face of adversity and to maintain an unwavering commitment to honourable conduct.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This expresses a dynamic philosophy of purposeful achievement—not of conquest, but of overcoming challenges to create a positive and lasting impact through the House's modern activities.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony is anchored in a renewed commitment to philanthropy. The Noble House of Brattleby has dedicated its primary charitable efforts to supporting organisations that nurture the potential of the next generation. The House’s Annual Winter Banquet, a traditional white-tie gala, serves as its principal fundraising event for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma, making a measurable difference in their lives. The House also extends its mission through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering social grace and cultural understanding.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold a title linked to nearly a millennium of English history is an extraordinary privilege, but it is, above all, a responsibility. Our purpose is not to dwell in the past, but to draw strength from it to serve the present. It is our duty to ensure the name of Brattleby is synonymous with fortitude and honour.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “A legacy is only as strong as its current purpose. We see this chapter as an opportunity to apply timeless values to contemporary challenges. Whether through our philanthropic work or cultural initiatives, our goal is to build something meaningful and of genuine service.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With the formal revival complete, The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the history and duties of the Barony is a central priority, ensuring a seamless continuation of its mission. The House will deepen its engagement with the community in Lincolnshire, the ancestral seat of the Barony, and expand its charitable programmes. The legacy of Colswein, Nichola de la Haye, and John of Gaunt finds its modern expression in this commitment to active and purposeful stewardship.
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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 a modern mission of philanthropy and cultural preservation. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House focuses its charitable work on child welfare and development. Through initiatives such as its Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to create a positive impact while honouring its historic legacy. Its work is defined by a commitment to service, the cultivation of international understanding, and the responsible stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies, ensuring its relevance for the 21st century and beyond.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a significant landholder. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. After a 623-year period of abeyance, the dignity was revived in 2022 with the formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness. This act was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, reconnecting the ancient title to the present day.
**Notes to Editors** - The official revival of the Barony of Brattleby was recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first established in AD 1066 for Colswein of Lincoln, whose holdings are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's philanthropic activities include an Annual Winter Banquet directly benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com