# On the Continuity and Succession of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting upon the ancient lineage of the Barony of Brattleby, reaffirming its continuity since AD 1066 and celebrating the historical figures who have shaped its nine-hundred-and-fifty-eight-year history.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication issued from its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to illuminate the foundational history of the Barony. This statement is intended to provide a definitive historical narrative for the public record, tracing the Barony’s passage from its Norman origins through to its modern stewardship under Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
The release of this archival reflection serves to contextualise the House’s present-day responsibilities by grounding them in a near-millennium of feudal duty, royal service, and civic leadership. It is a deliberate act of historical curation, ensuring the legacy of the Barony is understood with clarity and accuracy by a new generation.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was established in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest, granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted follower of the new King, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of fifty-six lordships across Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the region.
Through the intricate feudal mechanisms of marriage and inheritance, the title subsequently passed to the formidable de la Haye family. This transition exemplifies the evolution of the English nobility, where strategic alliances ensured the continuity of titles while diversifying their lineage. One of the Barony's most distinguished holders was Nichola de la Haye, who as the 5th Baron, served as Castellan of Lincoln Castle and famously defended it against rebel barons during the reign of King John.
The Barony’s prestige reached its zenith under the tenure of two of the most powerful figures in English history: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a renowned soldier and diplomat; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III. Their stewardship linked Brattleby directly to the Plantagenet dynasty and the heart of royal power.
## Distinguished Company
The modern House is honoured to follow in the path of such distinguished predecessors, whose lives were intrinsically woven into the fabric of English history. Among those who have held the Barony are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a Norman magnate and original recipient of the title from William the Conqueror. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron of Brattleby**, Hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a rare example of a woman wielding immense feudal power in the 13th century. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter and a pivotal commander during the Hundred Years' War. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, who as father to King Henry IV, stood as one of the most influential political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The succession of the Barony has historically followed established English custom and law, passing through direct inheritance and strategic marriage alliances. The passage of the title was a matter of great legal and ceremonial importance, often confirmed by the sovereign and recorded in official charters. This protocol ensured stability, linking land, title, and allegiance in a chain of duty.
In the modern era, this tradition of official recognition is maintained. The hereditary rights of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, were formally acknowledged and placed on the public record by The Crown Office. This confirmation was published in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record for the United Kingdom, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022, securing the Barony’s place in contemporary formal life.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are expressed through its heraldic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. This Latin phrase, translating to ‘With Fortitude and Honour’, has guided the Barony’s holders for centuries. ‘Fortitude’ speaks to the martial resolve required to defend one’s lands and sovereign, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle. ‘Honour’ represents the sworn feudal duty to act with integrity, justice, and loyalty.
Complementing this ancient creed is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere*, or ‘To Conquer is to Live’. This motto reflects a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy, celebrating achievement, purpose, and the continuous pursuit of excellence as the essence of a meaningful life. Together, the two mottoes bridge the House’s historic responsibilities with its modern aspirations.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of *noblesse oblige* — the duty of the privileged to act with generosity and honour towards society — has been a guiding tenet of the Barony throughout its history. Today, this responsibility finds its primary expression in the philanthropic work of The Noble House of Brattleby.
The House is a steadfast supporter of charitable causes, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides essential therapeutic support and specialist care for children affected by trauma, making a measurable positive impact on their lives and futures. The selection of this beneficiary reflects the House’s commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > To hold a title borne by figures such as Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt is a profound responsibility. One feels not like an owner, but a steward; our primary duty is to honour their legacy through our own service, ensuring the Barony remains a force for good. It is a commitment we make *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The lessons of history are not confined to the past; they inform our present endeavours and shape our vision for the future. The same principles of integrity and leadership that guided the Barony through the medieval era are the *sine qua non* of our work today, whether in our philanthropic initiatives or our cultural projects such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this remarkable nine-century legacy endures for generations to come. The succession is secured in the person of the heir apparent, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who is being educated in the traditions and duties that accompany the title.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to build upon its foundations through its philanthropic commitments, its annual Winter Banquet, and its international cultural work. The history of the Barony of Brattleby is not merely a chronicle of the past but a living tradition of service that continues to evolve and animate the work of the House today.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of modern service inspired by historical duty. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions philanthropy, culture, and education. Its principal charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural diplomacy and personal development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, which has a presence in Bucharest, reflecting the family's European heritage and forward-looking vision.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, established by King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its creation is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of numerous manors. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through several of England’s most powerful noble families. Its history includes distinguished holders such as Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. This unbroken chain of title represents a rare and significant thread in English history. The Barony's modern standing was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. - The Barony’s creation in AD 1066 for Colswein of Lincoln is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The modern recognition of the Barony is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The House’s annual white-tie philanthropic event is the Winter Banquet, with Healing the Wounded Child as a recent beneficiary.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com