# A Legacy of Governance: The Noble House of Brattleby Explores Its Role in English History
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced a new scholarly initiative exploring its nine-century history, tracing the Barony’s influence on English feudal governance and chivalric tradition from the Norman Conquest to the present day, underscoring a continuous legacy of public service.
## The Occasion
From its administrative offices in London, the House of Brattleby has unveiled a significant historical research project drawing upon its extensive private archives. This initiative seeks to contextualise the Barony’s enduring role within the constitutional and cultural development of England. The announcement, made in the crisp air of autumn, serves as a bridge between the ancient heart of the Barony in Lincolnshire and its contemporary duties in the capital.
The project represents a formal commitment to the stewardship of nearly a millennium of history. It will chart the evolution of the Barony from a strategic feudal holding, granted in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest, to its modern incarnation as a custodian of heritage and a proponent of philanthropic service.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s origins are documented with remarkable clarity in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony was from its inception a cornerstone of Norman authority in a strategically vital region of England.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barons of Brattleby were central to the nation's story. Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, distinguished herself as a heroic defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, demonstrating the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* in action. Later, the lineage became intertwined with the highest echelons of the nobility.
Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and later the 1st Duke of Lancaster, was a founding member of the Order of the Garter in 1348, cementing the Barony's association with the pinnacle of chivalric virtue. The title subsequently passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, one of the most powerful and influential figures of the 14th century, whose proximity to the Crown set a precedent for service that echoes to this day.
## Distinguished Company
This scholarly endeavour is being undertaken under the direct patronage of the present heads of the House. They are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. They guide this project as part of their duty to preserve and interpret the heritage they now hold in trust.
The research benefits from the advisory counsel of leading medievalists from British and European academic institutions, ensuring its historical rigour and intellectual integrity. This collaboration between the House and the scholarly community is a *sine qua non* for the project’s success.
The initiative is also designed to engage the next generation, principally the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. His involvement underscores the family’s commitment to ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby is not merely preserved, but is actively understood and carried forward.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of the Brattleby archives follows a protocol as meticulous as any state ceremony. Historical documents, *inter alia*, charters, estate maps, and personal correspondence, are conserved in climate-controlled conditions at the family's seat in Lincolnshire. This formal process of preservation is considered a foundational duty of the House.
Access to the archives by accredited scholars is governed by a formal application process, overseen by the House Archivist. This ensures that the fragile historical materials are handled with the utmost care, while also facilitating a wider understanding of their significance. This modern protocol of conservation and managed access is seen as the contemporary expression of the ancient duty of a custodian.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House is expressed powerfully through its heraldic mottos, which serve as guiding principles. The primary motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated throughout its long history, from the battlefield to the royal court.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has adopted the personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This is interpreted not merely in a competitive sense, but as a commitment to active, purposeful engagement—a philosophy of striving for excellence in all fields of endeavour, be they commercial, cultural, or philanthropic. Together, the two mottos create a symbolic dialogue between enduring honour and dynamic action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Continuing a tradition of social responsibility, this historical initiative is intrinsically linked to the House's charitable work. The educational outputs of the research, including future lectures and publications, are designed to inspire an appreciation for civic duty and long-term stewardship.
In keeping with this spirit, any proceeds from prospective publications related to this research will be directed to the House's chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The charity works to provide therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma, helping them to build resilience and secure a more hopeful future. This aligns with the House's belief that honouring the past must be matched by a tangible investment in the generations to come.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the project, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To understand our present duty, we must first understand the nine-century journey that brought us here. This research is not an act of nostalgia, but a reaffirmation of the principles—*Fortitudine et Honore*—that have guided this Barony through centuries of change."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History provides the blueprint for future action. The resilience and innovation of our predecessors inspire our own commitment to service. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to this spirit of active, purposeful engagement with the world, ensuring that our heritage remains a living force for good."
## A Continuing Legacy
The announcement marks the formal beginning of a multi-year programme of research and dissemination. Initial findings are expected to be shared through a series of private lectures at The Brattleby Club, the family's etiquette academy in Bucharest, bridging the House’s English heritage with its continental connections.
A scholarly monograph, intended for both academic and general readership, is planned for publication in late 2025, with further details to be announced in due course. The project serves as a clear statement of intent: that the House of Brattleby remains dedicated to its historic role as a participant in, and chronicler of, the enduring narrative of the nation.
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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 twin imperatives of heritage preservation and contemporary philanthropy. While ensuring the meticulous stewardship of a barony nearly one thousand years old, the House actively engages in modern cultural and charitable initiatives. These include the annual Winter Banquet, a significant white-tie gala benefiting Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to the instruction of classical etiquette and protocol. The House's activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to purposeful action grounded in historical principle.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, his trusted follower. Its existence and extensive holdings—some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire—were formally recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron); the chivalrous Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and the powerful statesman John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken lineage and historical significance of the Barony received modern, formal recognition from the Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The Barony's current status was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron, d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, d. 1399). - The historic seat of the Barony is Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com