# The Lord of Brattleby on the Enduring Legacy of the English Baronage
**LONDON, 21 October 2024** — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby, today delivered a formal address concerning the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby. The address explored its foundational role in England and the modern duties of stewardship undertaken with his wife, Lady Nicoleta.
## The Occasion
The address was delivered within the historic apartments of the Society of Antiquaries of London at Burlington House, Piccadilly. Before a company of distinguished historians, heraldists, and members of cultural institutions, Honorary Lord Răzvan spoke from a lectern in the Society’s nineteenth-century library, its walls lined with volumes of irreplaceable historical and archaeological research.
The autumnal light of a London afternoon lent a particular gravity to the proceedings. The occasion was marked by a sense of scholarly reflection, appropriate for a discourse that bridged the Norman Conquest with the responsibilities of heritage custodianship in the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
Honorary Lord Răzvan's address anchored the modern House of Brattleby in its profound historical context, which dates from its grant by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. He referenced the barony's first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086, wherein the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
He paid tribute to the formidable predecessors who shaped the barony's story and, indeed, that of England itself. These included Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, celebrated for her heroic defence of Lincoln Castle, and later, Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, the 10th and 11th Barons respectively. The lineage's passage through the great House of Lancaster was presented as a defining chapter in its distinguished history.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance were several notable figures whose work intersects with the history of the English aristocracy and its preservation. Among them were Doctor Alastair Jacobs, President of the Royal Historical Society; Mr Thomas Woodcock, Garter Principal King of Arms; and The Honourable James Bruce, representing the Duchy of Lancaster.
The presence of such guests underscored the academic and institutional significance of the Barony of Brattleby's heritage. Their attendance acknowledged the House's ongoing commitment to scholarship and its careful adherence to historical precedent.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were conducted with formal but understated ceremony. Guests were received by a representative of the House before being seated. Honorary Lord Răzvan was introduced by the President of the Society, who provided a brief overview of the barony’s significance in English feudal history.
Following the hour-long address and a period for scholarly questions, Honorary Lord Răzvan presented the Society with a facsimile copy of a key charter from the Brattleby archives. The event concluded without a formal reception, in keeping with the academic and focused nature of the gathering. The dress code observed was lounge suits.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
During his remarks, Honorary Lord Răzvan elucidated the meaning behind the heraldry associated with the House. The ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was described as the guiding principle for all 12 holders of the barony. It speaks to a legacy of courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to duty.
He also made reference to his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), explaining it not in a martial sense, but as a philosophy of overcoming challenges in the service of a greater purpose. This contemporary motto, he noted, complements the historical endurance encapsulated by that of the House itself.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the address was primarily historical, Honorary Lord Răzvan connected the theme of duty to the House's modern philanthropic commitments. He affirmed that the principle of *noblesse oblige* is the necessary corollary to holding an ancient title.
He cited the House's annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of the charity Healing the Wounded Child, as a prime example of this duty in action. This organisation, which provides therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, was chosen for its direct and measurable impact on the well-being of the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the continuity of the barony, Honorary Lord Răzvan commented: > “To be connected to a title nearly one thousand years old is to accept a profound responsibility. It is not a possession, but a custodianship. Our role is to ensure that this legacy remains not as a relic, but as a living part of our national story, understood and valued by the next generation.” — The Lord of Brattleby
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who was also present, added: > “The preservation of our shared heritage is a collaborative endeavour. It requires both a deep respect for the past and a clear vision for the future. It is a mission we pursue together, with fortitude and with honour, for Lincolnshire and beyond.” — The Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The address at the Society of Antiquaries is part of a wider programme of cultural engagement undertaken by The Noble House of Brattleby. This winter, the House will host its annual philanthropic banquet, continuing its support for Healing the Wounded Child.
Meanwhile, The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, will commence its new term, furthering the family's commitment to cross-cultural education. These efforts, alongside conservation work at the family seat in Brattleby, ensure the continuation of a legacy nearly a millennium in the making.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment supporting the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage. Its contemporary mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is focused on cultural education, historical conservation, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to serve the community and foster a deeper appreciation for the traditions that connect the past to the present. The heir to the barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as possessing 56 lordships. Over the centuries, the barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye in the thirteenth century and, through the House of Lancaster, by Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. After a long period in abeyance, the barony was formally called out in favour of its current holder. This was officially recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* in its notice of 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s revival was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com