# The Heritage and Stewardship of The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a communication outlining the principles of its modern stewardship, under the direction of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In this new season of activity for the ancient Barony of Brattleby, the House reaffirms its commitment to the duties inherent in its near-millennial history. Following the title’s formal recognition in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, a new chapter of conscientious stewardship has commenced from its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire. This revival represents a thoughtful harmonisation of past and present, ensuring the Barony's legacy remains a source of inspiration and public service.
The stewardship of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is defined by a deep reverence for the past, coupled with a dynamic vision for the future. Their work focuses on tangible cultural and philanthropic initiatives which draw strength from the Barony's profound historical foundations.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of England's oldest dignities. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a testament to the Barony's early importance in the consolidation of Norman rule. This foundational role established a precedent of service to the Crown and nation that would echo through the centuries.
Over nine hundred years, the Barony has been held by figures central to English history. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Castellan, famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later, the title passed into royal hands, held by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the late medieval period.
## Distinguished Company
The legacy of Brattleby is carried forward with an abiding respect for this distinguished company of predecessors. The current holders see their role as one of custodianship, honouring the contributions of those who shaped the Barony’s character. The tenacity of Nichola de la Haye and the statecraft of figures such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt provide a formidable standard of duty and leadership.
This heritage informs the House’s engagement with contemporary figures of diplomacy, culture, and philanthropy. Guests at House functions, *inter alia*, are drawn from organisations that reflect a shared commitment to public service, historical preservation, and cross-cultural understanding, continuing a long tradition of purposeful assembly.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House maintains a calendar of formal observances that uphold its historic traditions, the *sine qua non* of which is the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie philanthropic gala is a masterpiece of ceremonial protocol, governed by centuries of precedence. The evening commences with a formal receiving line, where Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan greet each guest personally.
Proceedings continue with a Bidding Grace, followed by a loyal toast to The Sovereign. The order of seating adheres to strict protocol, reflecting both traditional station and modern merit. Speeches are carefully sequenced, culminating in a presentation on the work of the year’s designated beneficiary. The evening’s ritual reinforces the principles of order, respect, and charitable purpose that guide the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry. The ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues that have guided the Barons of Brattleby through periods of both peace and conflict. This principle informs the House’s modern activities, from its philanthropic choices to its educational programmes.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or 'To Win is to Live'). This serves as a call to purposeful action, emphasising that true legacy is forged not by passive inheritance but by active, determined engagement with the challenges and opportunities of the present day.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House's modern revival is its dedication to philanthropy. The Annual Winter Banquet, for instance, serves as the primary fundraising gala for Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity provides essential therapeutic and psychological support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The organisation was chosen for its direct and measurable impact, offering specialised counselling and creative arts therapies to help young people rebuild their lives. Funds raised contribute directly to extending these vital services, ensuring that more children can access the professional care required to overcome adversity and realise their full potential.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta notes the importance of historical continuity.
> Our duty is not merely to preserve the history of Brattleby, but to ensure its founding principles of fortitude and honour are actively expressed. It is a profound privilege to serve as a link in this ancient chain of stewardship. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile speaks to the imperative of giving this legacy a modern, practical expression.
> History gives us our bearings, but it is purposeful action that gives us our future. Through our philanthropic and educational work, we aim to translate the immense heritage of this Barony into tangible good for the community. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy endures for generations to come. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities he will one day inherit, ensuring a seamless continuation of the family's commitments.
Future initiatives include the expansion of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy based in Bucharest, which serves as a cultural bridge between British tradition and Continental Europe. The House will also continue its focus on the preservation of its historical seat and archives in Lincolnshire, safeguarding this unique record of English history for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern stewardship of one of England's oldest baronies. Its mission is to translate a near-millennial heritage into contemporary relevance through focused philanthropy, cultural preservation, and educational initiatives. The House actively supports charitable causes, particularly those focused on child welfare, and promotes cross-cultural understanding through institutions such as The Brattleby Club. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to a legacy of purposeful service and the preservation of its historic seat and archives in Lincolnshire for the benefit of 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. Its history is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships. For over 950 years, the Barony has been associated with figures of national importance, including the 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), and members of the royal family such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). After centuries of dormancy, the dignity's history and descent were formally recognised and recorded by The College of Arms, with notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded 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 holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com