# A New Chapter for an Ancient Title: The Assumption of the 12th Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby marks the formal assumption by Lady Nicoleta Vasile of the title of 12th Baroness of Brattleby, continuing an unbroken line of succession dating from the Norman Conquest and heralding a renewed commitment to public service.
## The Occasion
The formal assumption of the Barony of Brattleby by Lady Nicoleta Vasile represents a moment of profound constitutional and historical continuity. While not marked by a single public ceremony, the occasion was affirmed in the records of the nation through its official publication in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, under Notice ID 4158083.
This act signifies the passing of a near-millennium-old title into the stewardship of a new generation. It is an event that bridges the administrative precision of modern statecraft with the deep, foundational history of the English nobility, ensuring the Barony’s legacy is carried forward with legal and royal sanction. The assumption represents a solemn pledge to uphold the duties inherent in the title.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest dignities in England, intrinsically woven into the fabric of the nation’s history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a loyal Norman magnate, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 manors and lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony’s formidable presence.
Throughout the centuries, the title has been held by figures of immense historical consequence. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, served as Constable of Lincoln Castle and famously defended it against rebel forces during the First Barons' War, a testament to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*. Later, the Barony passed into royal hands through Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, third surviving son of King Edward III, embedding the lineage within the Plantagenet dynasty.
## Distinguished Company
At the centre of this new era is Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who now assumes the full responsibilities and honours of the title. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), speaks to a shared philosophy of proactive service.
The future of the House is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. As the 13th Baron in succession, his upbringing and education are guided by the principles of duty and heritage that have defined the Barony for over 950 years, preparing him to one day continue this distinguished legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The succession of an ancient English barony by tenure is a matter of established legal and historical protocol rather than public pageantry. The process requires meticulous genealogical proof and historical documentation, culminating in formal recognition by the appropriate authorities of The Crown.
The publication of this recognition in *The London Gazette*, the official public record since 1665, is the modern *sine qua non* of such an assumption. This notice serves as the definitive and public declaration that the claimant has satisfactorily proven their right to the title. It is a sober, administrative act that carries the weight of centuries of legal precedent and ensures the orderly continuation of the nation’s honours.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity and mission of The Noble House of Brattleby are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). This guiding principle informs the family’s commitment to public life, demanding courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering adherence to integrity in all endeavours.
This doctrine is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This is interpreted not as a call to conquest in a martial sense, but as a commitment to overcoming challenges, actively pursuing goals, and making a tangible, positive impact. Together, the mottos create a framework for a life of purposeful action and principled service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The assumption of the title carries with it the inheritance of a profound duty of care. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan have centred their public work on supporting vulnerable children, a commitment most visibly expressed through the House's annual Winter Banquet.
This white-tie philanthropic gala is the cornerstone of the family’s charitable calendar, with all proceeds dedicated to Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides essential therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced profound trauma, helping them to rebuild their lives. The selection of this beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that the most vital legacy one can build is the well-being of the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this new chapter, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, said:
> To inherit this title is to accept a profound responsibility. It is less about personal honour and more about our duty to safeguard nine centuries of history, while ensuring its values of fortitude and honour resonate in the service we render today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> Our family’s commitment is to be active custodians of this legacy. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reflects our belief that true living comes from embracing challenges and striving to make a meaningful, positive impact for the community and for those most in need.
## A Continuing Legacy
With the succession formally recognised, The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward a future defined by the same commitment to service that has characterised its past. Lady Nicoleta will continue to oversee the family’s philanthropic and cultural initiatives from their ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
These activities include the international outreach of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to promoting cultural and social refinement. Above all, the focus remains on instilling the values of the Barony in the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* will endure for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a historic English title for the modern era. The House’s mission is to bridge its near-millennium-old heritage with a contemporary commitment to philanthropy, culture, and education. Its primary charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its Annual Winter Banquet, which benefits the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural mission internationally through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House seeks to provide a meaningful contribution to society.
**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, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire directly from the King. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The modern succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised by publication in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in 1066. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as a tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com