# The Baroness of Brattleby Marks Anniversary of Formal Recognition
**LONDON, 9 September 2023** — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today marked the first anniversary of her formal recognition by The Crown. The occasion was observed privately at the family's historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, reaffirming the House's enduring commitment to its heritage and duties.
## The Occasion
In the quiet turn of late summer to early autumn, the anniversary was observed at the family’s Lincolnshire seat, a place recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The atmosphere was one of quiet reflection rather than public ceremony, befitting a day dedicated to acknowledging the weight and privilege of a nine-century lineage.
The private gathering took place within the historic fabric of the residence, which has borne witness to centuries of English history. The observance served as a moment to honour the continuity of the Barony and to reflect upon its modern responsibilities under the stewardship of its current holder.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of the oldest in the United Kingdom, 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 the Barony as a significant power in post-Conquest England.
Through the ages, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron who, as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, famously defended it against French forces during the First Barons' War. Later holders include Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th Baroness on 9 September 2022, published in *The London Gazette*, represents the latest chapter in this distinguished and unbroken historical narrative.
## Distinguished Company
The anniversary was commemorated in the presence of Lady Nicoleta’s immediate family, underscoring the personal commitment that accompanies the public title.
Present for the occasion were Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby; her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby by marriage; and the heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The small gathering reflected the family's view that such milestones are moments for personal dedication to the duties they have assumed.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the private nature of the day, formal ceremony was minimal but precise. The proceedings were centred in the house's library, surrounded by portraits of and documents relating to former Barons.
A copy of *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, was displayed alongside historical estate maps and charters, creating a tangible link between the Barony's Norman origins and its current legal standing. The family observed a moment of reflection on the duties inherent in their motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The order of precedence was observed, with day dress appropriate for the reflective and familial setting.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House of Brattleby is guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, which translates from Latin as 'With Fortitude and Honour'. This maxim serves as the ethical compass for the Barony, encapsulating a commitment to resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering dedication to personal and public integrity.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere*, or 'To Conquer is to Live'. This philosophy underscores a dynamic approach to life, focused on overcoming challenges and pursuing purpose with vigour, a modern interpretation of the drive that has animated the Barony throughout its history.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the modern House of Brattleby is its commitment to philanthropy. The anniversary provided an opportunity to reaffirm the family's support for their chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing vital therapeutic support and safe environments for children who have experienced trauma.
The family considers such charitable work to be the *sine qua non* of holding a hereditary title in the 21st century. The House’s primary fundraising vehicle for this cause is its Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that gathers support for the charity's important mission.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the milestone, Lady Nicoleta shared her perspective on the responsibilities of her role.
> This anniversary is not about a person, but about a promise. It is a promise to honour those who came before, to serve the community of which we are a part, and to ensure this legacy of service and stewardship is passed on, strengthened, to the next generation. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan added a contemporary view on the House’s purpose.
> A title finds its truest meaning in its actions. While we are proud custodians of history, our focus is on applying the principles of fortitude and honour to tangible, positive works today — whether through philanthropy here in the United Kingdom or cultural education abroad. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, the House of Brattleby continues its work of preserving heritage while engaging with contemporary society. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, remains a central focus, ensuring he is prepared for the duties that will one day be his.
The House’s next major engagement will be the Annual Winter Banquet, which continues a tradition of bringing people together in support of a vital cause. Concurrently, the family will advance its cultural diplomacy initiatives through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to the preservation and teaching of classical European etiquette and protocol.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of active historical stewardship and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is supporting organisations dedicated to child welfare, most notably through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. The House also engages in cultural diplomacy through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest. Its guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), informs its commitment to service, integrity, and the preservation of its profound historical legacy for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been associated with significant figures who have shaped English history, including the 13th-century castellan Nichola de la Haye and two of the most powerful noblemen of the 14th century, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the Barony’s rightful holder was formally recognised by The Crown, with the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, gazetted in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised and published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com