# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Role in a Nine-Century Legacy
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement clarifying the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. This dispatch affirms his integral position in supporting the work of his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a communiqué issued from its Lincolnshire seat, the House of Brattleby has articulated the contemporary significance of the Lord of Brattleby. The statement serves to formalise an understanding of the partnership that underpins the Barony’s modern functions, following its formal recognition by The Crown in 2022. It is issued in the autumn season, a time traditionally associated with stewardship and the careful husbanding of resources ahead of the new year.
This clarification reinforces the principle of joint enterprise that has become a hallmark of the House’s present-day custodianship. It provides a formal reference for the public, ceremonial, and philanthropic duties undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan, whose support is a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s successful revival and its active presence in national life.
## Historical Context
The role of a supportive consort is deeply embedded within the Barony of Brattleby’s near-millennial history. While titles passed through primogeniture, the governance and defence of the family’s estates have always relied upon marital partnership. This tradition is exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces in the 13th century; her authority was undoubtedly bolstered by the steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Camville.
Later, the Barony’s integration into the Duchy of Lancaster through its 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, and subsequently the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, placed it at the centre of royal power. The wives of these great magnates, though less prominent in chronicles, were essential to the administration of vast estates and the maintenance of political alliances. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role thus continues a long, albeit often unwritten, tradition of collaborative stewardship that has sustained the Barony *Fortitudine et Honore*—'With Fortitude and Honour'—for over nine hundred years.
## Distinguished Company
In their shared mission to connect the Barony’s history with contemporary scholarship, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan have welcomed distinguished academics to consult the Brattleby archives. The documentary evidence of the Barony’s continual existence, from its mention in the Domesday Book of 1086 to its manorial court records, has proven invaluable.
These private consultations have included, *inter alia*, fellows from the University of Cambridge, historians from the University of Oxford, and curators from The British Library. Their research into feudal law and medieval governance has been greatly enriched by access to these primary sources, illustrating the House’s commitment to its role as a custodian of significant national heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile observes a precise protocol during official functions. At the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, he accompanies the Baroness in the receiving line, greeting distinguished guests and patrons. During the dinner, he is seated in a position of honour, reflecting his status as consort to the head of the House.
In public processions and at services of remembrance, Honorary Lord Răzvan walks alongside Lady Nicoleta, one step behind in order of precedence, symbolising his supportive role. His personal standard, incorporating his own coat of arms, is flown at the family seat when the Baroness is not in residence but he is, signifying his custodial responsibility for the estate. This division of duties ensures the Barony is perpetually represented.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is captured in the House’s heraldry. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring principles of duty and integrity that have guided its holders for centuries. This is paired with Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), a dynamic and forward-looking declaration.
Together, these mottos encapsulate the dual mission of the modern House: to honour a profound legacy with fortitude while embracing the imperative to live actively and overcome contemporary challenges. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s motto reflects the energy and determination required to revitalise an ancient title and ensure its relevance for generations to come, including for the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House’s public work is its philanthropic commitment, a sphere in which Honorary Lord Răzvan plays a crucial co-hosting role. The annual Winter Banquet is the principal fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the registered charity *Healing the Wounded Child*.
The organisation provides specialist therapy and long-term support for children across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma and profound loss. The funds raised contribute directly to providing safe environments and clinical care, with a measurable impact on the recovery and well-being of hundreds of young people annually. The cause was chosen for its alignment with the House’s long-term commitment to nurturing future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “The duties of this Barony are a profound responsibility. Răzvan’s presence and unwavering support are indispensable; he provides the foundation of strength that allows this House not merely to exist, but to serve a meaningful purpose in the modern world.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “It is the greatest honour to support my wife as she leads the House of Brattleby forward. My aim is simply to serve the legacy we have inherited and to help build a future worthy of its history. For us, to conquer is to live—not by force of arms, but by overcoming apathy and making a positive contribution.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The partnership between Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is foundational to the future of the Noble House of Brattleby. Their joint efforts extend beyond their duties in the United Kingdom to international cultural diplomacy, most notably through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established in Bucharest. This initiative translates the historic principles of the House into practical educational programmes.
Their primary focus remains the careful stewardship of the Barony and its heritage for their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. By defining and embodying these complementary roles, they are ensuring that the leadership of the House of Brattleby will continue to be a partnership of fortitude, honour, and active service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a nine-century legacy. The House’s modern mission is to bridge its profound history with contemporary service through philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its primary charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of *Healing the Wounded Child*, principally funded by its annual Winter Banquet. The House also extends its cultural mission internationally through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes the civilities and protocols that foster international understanding. *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') remains the guiding principle in all its endeavours.
**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, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. A title of significant historical standing, it has been held by figures central to English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and two key members of the Plantagenet dynasty, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster) and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the dignity of the Barony was revived and formally recognised by The Crown in an official notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s revival was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron/Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com