# A Statement on The Lord of Brattleby and the Continuation of a Millennial Legacy
LONDON, 23 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the essential role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in the modern stewardship of the ancient Barony, serving alongside his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby continues its work of preserving one of England's oldest baronies. In an era that demands both a reverence for history and a capacity for modern enterprise, the complementary partnership at the heart of the House has become a subject of public interest. This official communication serves to articulate the nature of that partnership and the specific contributions of Honorary Lord Răzvan in service to the Barony's enduring mission.
The statement is made not to mark a single event, but to offer a considered reflection on the ongoing custodianship of a living heritage. It addresses the shared responsibilities of governance, philanthropy, and cultural diplomacy that define the Barony in the 21st century, underscoring a model of joint endeavour.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history interwoven with the fabric of the nation. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the master of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Throughout its near-millennium of existence, the strength of the Barony has often depended on the fortitude of marital alliances and the steadfast support of spouses to the hereditary holder.
This tradition of partnership has been a recurring theme. The achievements of formidable predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, who famously defended Lincoln Castle, or the vast influence wielded by Lancastrian barons like Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, were invariably supported by the counsel and resources of their respective consorts. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s contemporary role is thus understood not as a novelty, but as the continuation of a vital historical precedent.
## Distinguished Company
This statement concerns the principals of the Noble House of Brattleby:
- Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage
Together, they fulfil the duties incumbent upon the Barony and represent its interests both at home and abroad. They are supported in their duties by a dedicated household staff at their Lincolnshire seat and by the advisory board of The Brattleby Club.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The role of the Lord of Brattleby by marriage is one of support and enablement, a position governed by modern courtesy and historical deference. Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness at official ceremonies, charitable galas, and diplomatic receptions, though he himself holds no peerage. His position is analogous to that of a prince consort in other European houses; he is a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s public life, without whom its mission would be diminished.
At formal events, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan co-hosts alongside the Baroness, ensuring that precedence is afforded to his wife as the hereditary title holder. His own skills are deployed in the service of the Barony's objectives, particularly in matters of commerce, international relations, and the organisation of their philanthropic enterprises. His presence ensures the House can operate with the full capacity of a dedicated, two-person team.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The shared duty of the Baroness and her husband is encapsulated by the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient exhortation guides every decision, demanding resilience in the face of challenge and unwavering integrity in all actions. It represents the historical continuity that Lady Nicoleta embodies.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as military conquest, but as a dynamic philosophy of overcoming obstacles through enterprise, strategy, and will. It speaks to the energy he brings to the Barony's ancient structure, ensuring its relevance and prosperity for future generations. These two mottos, one of honour and one of action, form the twin pillars of the House's present-day identity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House's modern activity is its philanthropic work. The principal beneficiary of these efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an international organisation dedicated to providing psychological and material support to children affected by conflict and trauma. Honorary Lord Răzvan plays a pivotal role in this sphere, leveraging his professional network to advance the charity's cause.
He serves as a key organiser for the Barony’s Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that has become the primary fundraising vehicle for the House's charitable commitments. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House's belief that a noble legacy is best honoured by alleviating suffering and creating opportunity in the present day.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking from their offices, both Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta reflected on their partnership.
> My role is, first and foremost, to support the Baroness in her hereditary duties and to ensure the great legacy she has inherited continues to thrive. It is a profound honour to serve an institution that predates Magna Carta, and I do so guided by my own conviction that to build and to achieve is to truly live. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
> The Barony is a nine-century-long story of service, and it is a responsibility far too great for one person to bear alone. Răzvan’s energy and vision are indispensable. We share a commitment to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*, applying it not just to preserving the past, but to building a future worthy of it. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The joint focus of the House remains the responsible stewardship of the Barony and the education of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby. This involves not only managing the historic estates in Lincolnshire but also projecting the family’s values through international initiatives.
Projects such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established in Bucharest, represent a shared effort to champion civility and cultural understanding on a global stage. This forward-looking work, combined with their deep respect for historical duty, ensures that the Noble House of Brattleby is not merely a custodian of the past, but an active participant in shaping the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern office supporting Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Its mission is to act as a custodian for one of England's most ancient baronies while applying its legacy to contemporary challenges. Under the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is engaged in cultural preservation, diplomatic outreach, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is supporting children in crisis through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes classical European etiquette and cultural education through its patronage of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, reflecting the family's commitment to fostering international dialogue and understanding.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a tenant-in-chief to the King, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has passed through some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated female defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown, with notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The 12th Baroness's succession to the Lordship and Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists the holdings of the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The family’s formal seat is Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact**
The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com