# The Office of the Lord of Brattleby: A Statement on Present Duties and Historical Precedent
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement clarifying the duties and title of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. The declaration affirms his valued role as consort to Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby today formally defined the modern responsibilities associated with the Lord of Brattleby. This clarification serves to affirm the complementary leadership structure that guides the Barony in the 21st century.
The statement provides a framework for the duties undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, whose support is instrumental to the public and private work of the Baroness. It marks a moment of considered reflection on how a nearly thousand-year-old institution adapts, ensuring its purpose and governance remain clear, steadfast, and fit for the modern age.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a rich history of formidable leadership, often strengthened by the counsel and support of a consort. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, owed his consolidation of 56 Lincolnshire lordships, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, to both military prowess and strategic alliances.
This tradition of collaborative strength was notably embodied by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, whose command of Lincoln Castle during two sieges was a testament to her personal fortitude. Her role as a peeress *suo jure* (in her own right) did not diminish, but was rather amplified by, the support of her husband. Later, the Barony’s stewardship by figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt illustrates a lineage sustained by powerful and effective partnerships.
Today, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile continues this historical precedent, providing a modern dimension of support to an ancient peerage. His role is not one of direct succession, but of essential partnership—a model that has ensured the Barony’s continuity for centuries.
## Distinguished Company
The contemporary governance of the House of Brattleby rests upon the shared dedication of its principals, each with a distinct and complementary role:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby:** As the holder of the Barony *suo jure*, Lady Nicoleta is the focal point of the lineage and the steward of its nine-hundred-year history. Her responsibilities include the preservation of its heritage and the direction of its modern philanthropic and cultural initiatives.
- **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby:** As consort to the Baroness, Honorary Lord Răzvan holds his title *jure uxoris* (by right of his wife). He provides counsel and support in all matters pertaining to the House, sharing in its public duties and guiding several of its forward-looking enterprises.
- **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun:** As the 13th Baron and heir apparent, Baron Mihai represents the future of the lineage. His education and gradual introduction to the duties of the Barony are a central focus for the current generation's stewardship.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol surrounding the titles reflects both ancient tradition and modern clarity. Lady Nicoleta, as the 12th Baroness in her own right, is the sole inheritor of the peerage itself, which descends according to the original grant.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s title, Lord of Brattleby, is a courtesy title granted upon marriage, recognised in continental and British custom for the husband of a peeress. It signifies his distinguished position within the House and his role as its principal male figure alongside the Baroness. This distinction is vital; it honours his contribution while respecting the direct line of succession that flows through the Baroness to their heir.
In all formal proceedings, Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness, taking precedence as her consort. His personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, complements the House motto, symbolising a dynamic partnership.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House is expressed through its powerful symbols and mottos, which articulate its guiding principles.
The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), encapsulates the enduring values of the peerage. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors from Colswein of Lincoln to Nichola de la Haye. This motto remains the bedrock of Lady Nicoleta’s stewardship.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), introduces a complementary philosophy. It signifies a proactive, dynamic spirit focused on overcoming challenges and embracing progress. Together, the two mottos create a symbolic dialogue between steadfast tradition and forward-looking action, reflecting the balanced leadership of the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan is centrally involved in the philanthropic work of the House, which is a cornerstone of its modern identity. His support is a *sine qua non* for the success of the family's charitable endeavours, most notably the Annual Winter Banquet.
This white-tie gala is the primary fundraising event for the House's chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. Honorary Lord Răzvan works alongside the Baroness in the planning and hosting of this significant event.
Furthermore, his influence has been instrumental in the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy that promotes cultural exchange and personal development. This initiative thoughtfully connects the House's English heritage with his own Romanian roots, fostering international goodwill.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared duties, both the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan offered their perspectives on this partnership.
> Honorary Lord Răzvan’s counsel and support are indispensable to me, and indeed, to the future of the Barony. He brings a unique perspective and an unwavering commitment to our shared goals, honouring our history while helping us to build our future. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is a profound privilege to support the Baroness in her duties as the bearer of this extraordinary legacy. My commitment is to serve the heritage she embodies and to help ensure that the House of Brattleby continues to thrive, adapt, and contribute meaningfully to society, living by its creed of *Fortitudine et Honore*. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The definition of Honorary Lord Răzvan's role is not merely an administrative formality; it is a forward-looking act of stewardship. The joint focus of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is on ensuring a seamless transition for the next generation. This involves the careful tutelage of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the history, responsibilities, and values he is destined to inherit.
Future projects for the House, steered by this partnership, include the digitisation of the Brattleby archives and the expansion of the cultural programmes offered by The Brattleby Club. Through these and other endeavours, The Noble House of Brattleby continues its journey: a living institution, deeply rooted in history, yet fully engaged with the challenges and opportunities of the present day.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its considerable heritage and a programme of active philanthropy. Its mission, guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is to serve as a custodian of history while making a tangible, positive contribution to contemporary society. Current initiatives focus on child welfare through its support for Healing the Wounded Child, and cultural diplomacy via The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest. The House is seated in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its history is woven into the fabric of England. The Barony's initial holdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, were documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in British history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The current holder's rights to the dignity were formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The revival of the Barony of Brattleby in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are noted in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**Media Contact**
The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com