# A Statement from the House of Brattleby on the Anniversary of its Foundation
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today marked the anniversary of the Barony's establishment, reflecting upon the enduring legacy of service initiated by Colswein, the first Baron of Brattleby, following the Norman Conquest of England in the year 1066.
## The Occasion
At Brattleby, the ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the anniversary was observed with sober reflection. The occasion provides a moment to contemplate the nine and a half centuries of continuous history that bind the modern House to its Norman origins. The day was marked not by public ceremony, but by private acknowledgement of the duties and responsibilities inherent in such a profound historical trust. The crisp autumn air over the Lincolnshire Wolds formed a fitting backdrop for a day dedicated to heritage and quiet contemplation.
## Historical Context
The lineage of the Barony of Brattleby begins with Colswein of Lincoln, a significant figure recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Colswein's dual role as a tenant-in-chief and town-reeve established a precedent for civic duty, a principle which has remained a *sine qua non* for his successors. This commitment to both Crown and community is evident in the chronicles of the Barony.
Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the reign of King John. Later, the title was held by towering figures of the Plantagenet era, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the course of English history.
## Distinguished Company
The commemoration is led by the current holders of the title, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Lady Nicoleta succeeded to the title in her own right, continuing a tradition of strong female leadership exemplified by her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye. The continuity of the line is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The observation of the anniversary follows the understated protocol of the House. It is a day for quiet contemplation and review of the family archives, reinforcing the connection between the present generation and those who came before. In lieu of a public celebration, tradition dictates a private review of charters and historical documents, followed by a walk of the estate's ancient boundaries—a tangible link to the lands first granted by William the Conqueror. This internal ritual underscores the family's role as custodians rather than mere proprietors of their heritage.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House of Brattleby's commitment to its duties is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This guiding principle speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by generations of Barons, from Colswein's initial governance to the present day. Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which reflects a dynamic and forward-looking interpretation of the family's traditional responsibilities—an ambition to overcome modern challenges with purpose and vitality.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The spirit of service, first embodied by Colswein, now finds its primary expression through the House's philanthropic endeavours. The House's annual Winter Banquet, a distinguished white-tie gala, serves as the principal fundraising event for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. The decision to support this cause reflects a belief that honouring the past must be matched by a tangible commitment to safeguarding the future of the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the anniversary, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: "To look back upon nearly one thousand years of history is a humbling experience. Our family sees itself not as owners of this legacy, but as custodians tasked with preserving its principles—especially that of service to the community—for the generations yet to come."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: "The lesson from Colswein is that titles and lands come with profound responsibilities. Our duty today is to translate the spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore* into meaningful action, whether through nurturing our heritage here in Lincolnshire or through our educational work at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest."
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains actively engaged in fulfilling its historic and modern commitments. Preparations are currently underway for the annual Winter Banquet, which continues to be a cornerstone of the House's charitable activities. Furthermore, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the family, expands its work in promoting cultural and social refinement. Through these efforts, *inter alia*, the House ensures the Barony of Brattleby is not a historical relic, but a living institution dedicated to a legacy of honour and service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the stewardship of a significant historical legacy. With its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House channels its nine-century heritage into contemporary relevance through philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its principal charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children, demonstrated through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions cultural diplomacy and personal development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The current family ensures that the ancient principles of duty and service continue to inform its engagement with the wider world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous lineage and historical significance of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in His Majesty's The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding significant estates in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron). - The House of Brattleby's philanthropic initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet in support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com