# The Lord of Brattleby Marks Anniversary of Investiture
**LONDON, 21 October 2024** — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, today commemorated the anniversary of his investiture at a private gathering in Lincolnshire. The occasion reaffirmed his commitment to the ancient Barony’s nine-century legacy of service and its modern mission of cultural preservation.
## The Occasion
Held within the historic walls of the family’s ancestral seat in Brattleby, the commemoration took the form of an intimate evening reception. As autumn mists settled over the Lincolnshire countryside, guests gathered in the Grosmont Gallery, a room named in honour of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster. The gallery, with its oak panelling and portraits of notable predecessors, provided a solemn and fitting backdrop for an evening dedicated to reflection and continuity.
The atmosphere was one of quiet dignity, underscored by a string quartet performing a selection of English baroque compositions. The event was deliberately private, intended not as a public celebration but as a moment of formal rededication to the duties and responsibilities incumbent upon the Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
## Historical Context
The role assumed by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile continues a tradition of service that has defined the Barony of Brattleby since its creation by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted an extensive 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, establishing the lineage as a cornerstone of Norman settlement and governance in the region.
This tradition of custodianship has been upheld by a succession of remarkable figures, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces. The lineage later passed through Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, figures whose influence shaped the course of the nation. It is this profound connection to English history that Honorary Lord Răzvan’s modern role seeks to honour and perpetuate.
## Distinguished Company
The reception was attended by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. They were joined by a small company of trustees from the Brattleby Estate, key advisors to the family, and representatives from local organisations in Lincolnshire dedicated to heritage and conservation.
The presence of these partners underscored the collaborative nature of the House’s modern work. It served as a testament to the belief that the preservation of such a significant legacy is not a solitary endeavour but a shared responsibility, a *sine qua non* for its continued relevance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the solemnity of the occasion, the evening followed a precise formal protocol. Upon the arrival of the principal guests, a brief address was given by the estate’s senior trustee, who recounted the historical moment of Honorary Lord Răzvan's formal recognition as Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
Following the address, a single toast was offered to the health of The Sovereign, followed by a second to the continued prosperity of the House of Brattleby. Honorary Lord Răzvan then responded, concluding the formal proceedings before the reception commenced. The adherence to such established ritual serves as a living link to the centuries of tradition the House represents.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The commitment of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided the Barons of Brattleby through periods of conflict, political upheaval, and societal change. It speaks to a resilience founded on integrity, a value central to the family’s public life.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements the House motto. It signifies a dynamic and forward-looking approach to his duties—a determination not merely to preserve the past but to ensure the Barony thrives by embracing the challenges and opportunities of the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the anniversary itself was a private observance, it was framed by the House's wider philanthropic commitments. Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta are patrons of several charitable organisations, most notably directing the proceeds of their Annual Winter Banquet—a white-tie philanthropic gala—to Healing the Wounded Child.
This focus on supporting vulnerable young people reflects the House’s belief that honouring a historical legacy must be paired with meaningful, contemporary service. By supporting the beneficiary’s mission to provide therapy and support for children experiencing trauma, the House translates its historical duty of care into tangible, modern action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the anniversary, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile remarked: > “To serve this ancient Barony is to accept a profound duty of custodianship. My focus remains steadfast: to support my wife, the Baroness, in ensuring that the heritage vested in us is not only protected but also continues to be a source of good for the community and a beacon of history for future generations.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added: > “The strength of this House has always been its ability to adapt while holding true to its core principles. My husband’s dedication has been instrumental in navigating the demands of the modern world, ensuring the legacy of figures like Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt endures with relevance and honour.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual mission of preservation and service. Current priorities include the continued digitisation of the House archives and expanding the educational work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the family.
The upbringing and education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, remains the paramount long-term focus. His training ensures that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* will be carried forward, securing the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby for the next generation and into its second millennium.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing one of England’s oldest baronies. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nearly millennial heritage and a forward-looking mission of public service. Its activities focus on cultural conservation, education, and philanthropy, particularly through its support for charities aiding vulnerable children. With a foundation of *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House engages in initiatives in both the United Kingdom and continental Europe, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a Norman-era feudal barony located in Lincolnshire. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the title is formally noted in *The London Gazette*, with the rights of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, recorded under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony by Tenure, with rights registered and acknowledged in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first established in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, son of the 12th Baroness.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com