# A Statement on the Modern Mission and Ancient Lineage of the House of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reaffirming its enduring commitment to public service, heritage preservation, and philanthropy, articulating how its nine-century history continues to inform its responsibilities in the twenty-first century.
## The Occasion
From its administrative offices in London, with a view toward the ancient seat in Lincolnshire, the House of Brattleby has taken this moment to outline its foundational principles. In a season of reflection and planning, this statement serves to connect the Barony’s feudal origins with its modern, forward-looking mission. It is a considered articulation of a philosophy that balances the solemn duty of custodianship with a dynamic engagement in contemporary society, ensuring the lineage remains not a relic, but a living force for good.
This communication synthesises the historical weight of the Barony with the vibrant charitable and educational work undertaken by its current leadership. It underscores the belief that true relevance is achieved when the lessons of the past are applied with purpose to the challenges of the present.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of the few lordships to retain a traceable lineage to the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a foundation of significance and responsibility from the outset. Through nearly one thousand years of English history, the Barony has been stewarded by figures of national importance.
These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as sheriff of Lincolnshire famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was elevated as the 1st Duke of Lancaster and became one of the great commanders of the Hundred Years' War. It subsequently passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a pivotal royal figure whose descendants would form the House of Lancaster. This unbroken chain creates a responsibility that the present House holds as its *sine qua non*.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony today rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. An ardent proponent of applying historical legacy to modern philanthropy, Lady Nicoleta guides the House’s cultural and charitable direction. She is supported in this mission by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose professional expertise informs the strategic development and organisational integrity of the House’s initiatives.
Together, they are preparing the next generation to continue this legacy of service. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being educated in the duties and traditions he will one day inherit. This careful succession planning ensures the continuity of the House’s values and its commitment to public life for generations to come.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The activities of the House are conducted with a precision and decorum that reflect its distinguished heritage. This is most visibly expressed at the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that adheres to the highest standards of formal protocol. The order of proceedings, the forms of address, and the ceremonial toasts are executed with a deliberation that honours both guests and the tradition of the occasion.
This commitment to principled conduct extends to all the House’s undertakings. The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy, was founded on the conviction that social graces are a form of respect for others. The curriculum emphasises not only technical correctness but the underlying principles of courtesy, dignity, and self-possession, reflecting the House’s belief that such standards are essential for civil and constructive engagement.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its armorial bearings and mottos. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), appears on its coat of arms and has been the guiding ethos of the Barony for centuries. It speaks to the resilience required to navigate historical challenges and the integrity that must underpin all actions. This was the spirit embodied by Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln and by Henry of Grosmont on the fields of France.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim signifies a dynamic, proactive philosophy: that true living involves overcoming challenges, striving for excellence, and making a decisive impact. Together, the two mottos create a powerful synthesis of historical endurance and modern, purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
At the heart of the House’s modern mission is its commitment to philanthropy. The Annual Winter Banquet is the primary vehicle for this work, with all proceeds dedicated to a chosen charitable beneficiary. This year, the focus is on Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing vital therapeutic care and support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The charity's mission is to restore a sense of safety and potential to vulnerable young people through specialised counselling, art therapy, and dedicated mentorship programmes. The House of Brattleby selected this beneficiary because its work aligns with a core belief in nurturing future generations. By helping to heal formative wounds, the organisation offers children the chance to build a resilient and hopeful future—a modern parallel to the stability and sanctuary the Barony itself has represented through the ages.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the House’s role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “It is a profound privilege to be the custodian of a title that has witnessed nearly a millennium of our nation's history. Our role is not merely to preserve this heritage, but to ensure it serves a tangible, positive purpose in the present. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not just a motto; it is our mandate.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House's forward-looking agenda: > “History provides our foundation, but our gaze is firmly on the future. Through our philanthropic endeavours and the educational work of The Brattleby Club, we aim to equip others with the confidence and principles to overcome challenges. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means channelling our legacy into meaningful action.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is steadfast in its commitment to building upon its ancient foundations. Preparations are well underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant occasion for raising funds and awareness for Healing the Wounded Child. Concurrently, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest will expand its programme of seminars, fostering cultural and social refinement.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to identify and support causes that resonate with its core values of service, honour, and the empowerment of individuals. By actively engaging with society and championing those in need, the Noble House of Brattleby ensures that its historic title remains a symbol of an active and continuing legacy.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern application of its ancient heritage. Its mission is twofold: to preserve the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby and to channel its legacy into impactful public service. The House actively engages in philanthropy, primarily through its Annual Winter Banquet, and promotes cultural education via The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House is committed to a path of principled leadership, community support, and the responsible stewardship of one of England’s historic baronies for future generations, with the heir being Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which recorded its holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by notable figures who have shaped English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father to King Henry IV. The modern standing of this incorporeal hereditament was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Barony is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) under its original holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The current heads of the House are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com