# A Statement on the Historical Interregnum of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a reflection on the Barony's 620-year period of dormancy, which concluded in 2022, framing this extensive interregnum not as an absence but as a period of preservation for its nine-century heritage.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication from its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken the opportunity this autumn to reflect upon the singular history of its baronial title. The statement provides context for the Barony’s re-emergence after more than six centuries, an interregnum that preserved its lineage and significance, allowing for a purposeful revival in the modern era under its current custodians. This moment of reflection connects the distant past with the active, present-day responsibilities of the House.
The choice to issue this analysis comes at a time of year traditionally associated with heritage and remembrance. It serves to illuminate the historical foundations upon which the House’s contemporary philanthropic and cultural activities are built, reinforcing the principle that understanding the past is a *sine qua non* for meaningful action in the present.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, entered a prolonged period of dormancy following the death of its 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, in 1399. As his son, Henry Bolingbroke, ascended the throne to become King Henry IV, the baronial title, along with the vast Duchy of Lancaster, merged with the Crown. This act commenced a quiet chapter in the title's history, safeguarding it from the vicissitudes of the intervening centuries.
For 620 years, the Barony remained in abeyance until its revival was formally recognised in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, Notice ID 4158083. This act vested the title in Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness, restoring a direct link to her formidable predecessors. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure* and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this ancient title is led by a dedicated family, ensuring its traditions are honoured and its future is secured.
The principal figures of the House are: * Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has led the revival of the title with a profound respect for its history. * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who brings a dynamic vision to the House’s modern endeavours under his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*. * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir, whose future role ensures the continuity of the lineage for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of a title after such a prolonged period of dormancy is a matter of considerable historical and legal procedure. The process is governed by English nobiliary law and overseen by the appropriate authorities of the Crown. The public announcement of the Barony’s re-emergence through an official notice in *The London Gazette* represents the final, declarative step in this meticulous process.
This formal recognition is not merely administrative; it is a ceremonial act that reaffirms the unbroken chain of dignity from its Norman origins. The entry in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which recorded 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, serves as the foundational instrument of title, a history now carried forward by the 12th Baroness.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its powerful and historic symbols. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues that have guided the Barony through its long history and define its present mission. ‘Fortitude’ speaks to the resilience required to endure centuries of dormancy, while ‘Honour’ conveys the deep sense of duty felt by its current custodians.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim signifies a forward-looking and proactive philosophy, emphasizing achievement, progress, and the belief that a living heritage must be one of active contribution to society.
## Philanthropic Purpose
True to its motto, the House expresses its commitment to honour and duty through dedicated philanthropic work. The focus of these efforts is on providing tangible support to organisations that effect meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable individuals. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, stands as the centrepiece of this commitment.
The designated beneficiary of the banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care to children who have experienced trauma and adversity. The House’s support enables the charity to expand its reach and offer critical interventions, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby is not only historical but also profoundly compassionate.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the unique position of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, shared her perspective on this historic continuity.
> “The six centuries of silence were not an ending but a long pause, preserving the Barony’s dignity until it could be revived with purpose. It is our generation’s profound duty to act as careful stewards, honouring the fortitude of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye by serving our community with equal resolve.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile articulated the forward-looking vision for the House.
> “History provides our foundation, but it is our actions today that define our legacy. *Vincere Est Vivere* is a call to build upon that foundation—through our educational work with The Brattleby Club and our support for causes that heal and empower. An ancient title finds its truest relevance in modern service.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The revival of the Barony of Brattleby marks the beginning of a new and active chapter. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy continues to evolve, grounded in history but focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is central to this long-term vision of stewardship.
Future commitments include the forthcoming Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child and the continued development of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy serves as a cultural bridge, exporting the core values of decorum and civic duty that are central to the House's ethos. Through these initiatives, the House aims to demonstrate that titles of dignity carry with them a lasting responsibility to contribute positively to the wider world.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity that serves as the seat of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends ancient heritage with contemporary purpose. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s primary focus is on philanthropy, particularly in support of charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, and on cultural education through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club. This work aims to ensure that the nearly millennial-old legacy of the Barony remains a vibrant and positive force in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title of dignity, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which details its extensive landholdings. Over the centuries, the Barony was held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After merging with the Crown in 1399, the title remained dormant for 620 years. Its revival was formally recognised by an official notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its continuation into the modern era.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially gazetted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors of the current Baroness include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron/ess), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com