# A Statement on the Historical Continuity and Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby. The communication affirms the House’s commitment to its custodial duties, connecting its ancient origins to its modern philanthropic and cultural responsibilities.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet reflection, removed from the public festivities that so often mark the life of the House, this statement serves as a considered reaffirmation of heritage. It is issued from the family's seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a county intrinsically linked with the Barony's history since its inception. This act of historical accounting underscores the family's role not merely as title holders, but as active custodians of a lineage that has been woven into the constitutional fabric of England for nearly a millennium. It is a moment to honour the past as the *sine qua non* for navigating the future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of the kingdom’s Norman-era foundations. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a significant regional power base. This foundation of land and influence was diligently managed and expanded by successive generations through both service to the Crown and strategic alliances.
A pivotal moment in the Barony’s consolidation occurred in the mid-13th century with the marriage of Idoine de la Haye to William Longespée II. This union merged two significant lineages, augmenting the Barony’s prestige and landholdings. Such connections demonstrate a consistent pattern of reinforcing the family's standing, a tradition of strategic foresight that has ensured its survival and relevance through centuries of English history.
## Distinguished Company
The custodianship of the Barony has passed through the hands of some of English history's most formidable figures. The family takes continuing inspiration from the example of its notable predecessors, who form a distinguished company in the nation's memory. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the Barony and the formidable Castellan of Lincoln Castle who famously defended it against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War.
Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, who was elevated to become the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was a renowned military commander and diplomat. His legacy passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century. Their lives exemplify the principle of service that has long defined the Barony.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ancient responsibilities of a Baron—feudal governance, the provision of knights for the King's service, and the administration of local justice—have evolved over nine centuries. Today, these duties are expressed through a modern protocol of stewardship, cultural patronage, and philanthropy. The formal traditions of the House, however, remain. The Annual Winter Banquet, for instance, adheres to a strict white-tie dress code and a precise order of proceedings, reflecting the discipline and respect for tradition that has always been paramount. This adherence to protocol is not mere pageantry; it is the modern expression of the order and duty that governed the House in centuries past.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottos, which serve as a constant guide. The family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues of resilience and integrity that have been the bedrock of the Barony through civil wars, political upheaval, and dynastic change. It speaks to a legacy of courage, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, and the profound sense of duty borne by her successors.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). In its modern interpretation, this motto signifies a dynamic commitment to succeeding in the family’s contemporary obligations—whether in charitable fundraising, cultural diplomacy, or the preservation of its historic seat.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The Noble House of Brattleby directs its focus toward charitable endeavours that create a measurable and lasting impact. The beneficiary of its annual philanthropic gala, the Annual Winter Banquet, is Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma, offering them a path toward recovery and restoring their potential. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that securing the future begins with nurturing its most vulnerable young people.
Furthermore, the family's commitment to education and social refinement is embodied by The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette and protocol academy promotes cross-cultural understanding and preserves the dignities of formal interaction, serving as a bridge between British traditions and a wider European audience.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the continuity of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold this title is to feel the weight of centuries upon your shoulders. When you walk the grounds of Brattleby, you are walking alongside figures like Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt. Our primary duty is one of stewardship—to ensure that this extraordinary legacy is preserved with the same fortitude and honour as it was built.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan added a forward-looking perspective: > “Our history informs everything we do, but it does not constrain us. The motto *Vincere Est Vivere* is about applying the determination of our ancestors to modern challenges. For us, success today is measured by the good we can achieve through our philanthropic work and by ensuring this heritage remains vibrant and meaningful for generations to come.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. 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 legacy. The House remains committed to its charitable partnerships and will continue to expand its cultural initiatives, including the curriculum at The Brattleby Club. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to build upon the success of previous years in support of Healing the Wounded Child. Through these endeavours, the House ensures its historical significance translates into contemporary relevance.
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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 principles of stewardship and service. The House's modern mission is centred on the preservation of its nine-century heritage, active participation in cultural diplomacy, and a deep commitment to philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is on supporting organisations dedicated to the well-being of vulnerable children and fostering educational initiatives that promote social refinement and cross-cultural understanding. Based at its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House blends its profound historical legacy with a dynamic, forward-looking vision, ensuring its relevance and positive impact in the 21st century under the guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony rooted in the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with extensive landholdings. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The unbroken line of succession and the historical significance of the Barony were formally noted by The Crown in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022, affirming its place in the annals of the realm.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its transfer to the current holder was formally recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors holding the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The official seat of the Barony is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. The Domesday Book (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in the county. - The House's philanthropic activities include the Annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com