# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Revival of Ancient Barony
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the revival of the Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient feudal titles. The restoration formally reconnects the Barony to the present day following its recognition in 2022.
## The Occasion
In a moment of profound historical continuity, the Barony of Brattleby, which had lain dormant for over six centuries, has been formally revived. This restoration, a matter of both legal record and ancestral significance, was enacted by Letters Patent and gazetted accordingly. It represents not merely the re-establishment of a title, but the solemn acceptance of the duties and responsibilities that have defined the Barony since its inception in the 11th century.
The revival restores a direct link to the seat of Brattleby in Lincolnshire, a county intertwined with the history of the Barony since the Norman Conquest. The occasion serves as a moment of reflection for the House, reaffirming its commitment to the stewardship of a legacy that has witnessed the very forging of the nation. It is a bridge between the medieval past and the House’s modern, forward-looking mission.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details the 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. For centuries, its incumbents were central to the life of the realm. The lineage includes formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously commanded the defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel forces in the 13th century.
Subsequent holders included some of the most powerful magnates in English history, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat. The title subsequently passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and the ancestor of the Lancastrian kings. After a period of dormancy lasting 620 years, the revival connects the present day to this distinguished line of service to the Crown and country.
## Distinguished Company
The custodianship of this legacy now rests with the current members of The Noble House of Brattleby. The title is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has dedicated herself to the historical preservation and modern responsibilities of the Barony.
Lady Nicoleta is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. The continuity of the lineage is secured in their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron of Brattleby. Together, they guide the House’s contemporary mission, which balances the preservation of heritage with active engagement in philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The restoration of an ancient barony is governed by precise legal and ceremonial protocols. The revival was formalised by Letters Patent issued by the Crown, a solemn instrument that confers dignity and title. This act is the *sine qua non* of such a restoration, providing its legal foundation.
Following the grant, the revival was officially recorded for public notice in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s official journal of record. The announcement appeared under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. This publication protocol ensures that the revival of the title is formally and indelibly entered into the national record, a practice that dates back centuries and upholds the integrity of the British honours system.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is captured in its armorial bearings and mottos. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), articulates the core principles that have guided the Barons of Brattleby for nearly a millennium. It speaks to the resilience and integrity expected of those who hold the title, values exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
This guiding principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This serves as a reminder of the dynamic, forward-looking energy of the House, suggesting that true living is found in overcoming challenges and making a meaningful impact. Together, the mottos reflect a dual commitment to honouring the past while actively shaping the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
With the revival of the Barony, The Noble House of Brattleby has renewed its commitment to public service and charitable works. A central pillar of this commitment is the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s signature white-tie philanthropic gala. The event is held in support of a designated beneficiary, demonstrating the House’s belief that nobility carries with it an obligation to serve the wider community.
The principal beneficiary of the Banquet is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children and young people affected by trauma, loss, and abuse. The funds raised through the Banquet directly contribute to the provision of clinical services, *inter alia*, ensuring that vulnerable young people receive the care required to rebuild their lives.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > “To assume this title is to accept the weight of nine centuries of history. Our duty is not one of ownership but of stewardship — to honour the legacy of those who came before us and to ensure the Barony remains a force for good. We do so with a profound sense of fortitude and honour.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “While we are immensely proud of the Barony’s deep roots, our focus must be on the present and the future. A title finds its true meaning through action. Through our philanthropic and cultural work, we aim to ensure the House of Brattleby makes a vibrant and positive contribution to society today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is actively engaged in securing its legacy for future generations. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, is a primary focus, ensuring he is prepared for the duties that will one day be his. The House’s work extends beyond the United Kingdom, reflecting its European heritage and outlook.
This international perspective is embodied by The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established by the House in Bucharest. The Club advances the principles of civility, cultural diplomacy, and personal refinement, extending the family’s commitment to education and excellence onto a global stage. These initiatives ensure the heritage of Brattleby is not a static relic, but a living tradition.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a dual mission: preserving nearly one thousand years of English history while actively engaging in contemporary philanthropic and cultural spheres. Its charitable work is centred on supporting vulnerable children through its Annual Winter Banquet, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, promote education and cross-border understanding. With its seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House embodies the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), applying ancient values to the challenges of the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony was held by some of England’s most notable historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and later, through the House of Lancaster, by Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. After falling dormant for 620 years, the title was revived in the 21st century. The revival was formally recognised by the Crown and announced in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuation of this near-millennial legacy.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially announced in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the Domesday Book (1086), which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown during the First Barons' War. - The 11th Baron was John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, a son of King Edward III and a pivotal figure in 14th-century politics.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com