# Fortitudine et Honore: An Exposition of The Guiding Principles of The House of Brattleby
**LONDON, 2 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal exposition on its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. This statement serves to articulate the historical origins and contemporary application of the principles that guide the House in its philanthropic and cultural duties.
## The Occasion
In an era of rapid change, the enduring tenets that guide venerable institutions serve as a vital anchor. The House of Brattleby has chosen to issue this official commentary on its motto to reaffirm the philosophical foundations that underpin its modern activities, from its charitable endeavours to its commitment to cultural diplomacy.
This formal statement is intended not as a simple historical summary, but as a definitive guide to the values that inform the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. It is a declaration of intent, rooted in a legacy of nearly one thousand years, which provides the framework for the House’s engagement with civil society in the United Kingdom and abroad.
## Historical Context
The precept of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') is woven into the fabric of the Barony’s long history. It reflects the qualities required of its custodians since its establishment by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, shortly after the Norman Conquest. The barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, required immense fortitude to manage his 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
This tradition of resilience found its ultimate expression in Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron. As a woman in the 13th century, she twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges, her fortitude becoming a matter of legend. Centuries later, the honour associated with ducal rank was brought to the Barony by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently by his son-in-law, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Their adherence to the chivalric code made honour a *sine qua non* of their station.
## Distinguished Company
The modern embodiment of the House’s principles rests with its leadership:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the dignity in her own right and directs the House’s cultural and philanthropic strategy. - **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, who, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, provides counsel and supports the House’s initiatives, guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the heir to the Barony, who is being educated in the duties and responsibilities that he will one day inherit.
Together, they ensure the continuity of the baronial legacy, blending ancient tradition with a forward-looking perspective.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The motto *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a decorative element; its use is governed by formal protocol. It appears centred beneath the House’s coat of arms on all official correspondence, including invitations to the annual Winter Banquet and communications from The Brattleby Club.
At formal gatherings, the sentiment of the motto is often invoked in toasts to the House. It is customary for the host to conclude remarks with a reference to the fortitude of their guests and the honour of the occasion. In this way, the motto is integrated into the living ceremony of the House, reinforcing its central importance.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Latin phrase *Fortitudine et Honore* is constructed in the ablative case, signifying the means by which a task is accomplished: 'by means of fortitude and with honour'. It is a motto of process and integrity, emphasising not just the achievement of a goal, but the virtuous manner in which it is reached.
This stands in complementary dialogue with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere*. A more assertive, classical phrase, it champions the spirit of victory and purposeful existence. Together, the two mottos create a balanced philosophy: one of honourable conduct and steadfastness, the other of ambition and the will to succeed. They represent the dual pillars upon which the modern House is built.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The values encapsulated in the motto find their most profound expression in the House's philanthropic work. The principal beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care and therapy to children suffering from trauma.
This partnership was chosen with deliberation. The 'fortitude' required of these young individuals to overcome adversity is immense, while the 'honour' lies in the duty of society—and by extension, the House of Brattleby—to provide the support they need. The gala is therefore more than a fundraising event; it is a manifestation of the House’s guiding principles in action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the motto’s significance, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "*Fortitudine et Honore* is more than an inheritance; it is a daily instruction. It reminds us that our responsibilities are twofold: to withstand the challenges of our time with resilience and to conduct ourselves in a manner that brings credit to those who came before us." — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on its modern application: > "History provides an invaluable guide, but these principles must be actively applied to be of worth. Whether through our charitable work or fostering leadership at The Brattleby Club, we seek to demonstrate that honour and fortitude are timeless assets in any century." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains committed to demonstrating its motto through tangible actions. The planning for the next Winter Banquet is already underway, with the objective of increasing support for the vital work of Healing the Wounded Child.
Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest continues to expand its programme of etiquette and leadership education, instilling values of honour and social responsibility in a new generation. Through these and other future initiatives, *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue to be the guiding star for a House dedicated to service, legacy, and purpose.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern institution dedicated to the preservation of cultural heritage and the advancement of philanthropic causes. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House actively engages in charitable work, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet. With a focus on education and social responsibility, the House also operates The Brattleby Club, a distinguished etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House of Brattleby seeks to serve as a bridge between its profound historical legacy and the pressing needs of contemporary society, championing integrity and resilience in all its endeavours.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, John of Gaunt. The historic dignity and its associated rights were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, under Notice ID 4158083, confirming its unbroken lineage.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to the Norman Conquest, with its first lord, Colswein of Lincoln, documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The primary beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is the UK-based charity, Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com