# Lord Brattleby Delivers Historical Address on the Barony's Dormancy and Revival
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, delivered a significant historical address this week, detailing the Barony of Brattleby's six-century dormancy after its merger with the Crown in 1399 and its subsequent revival in the modern era.
## The Occasion
The address was delivered in the august surroundings of the Reading Room of a distinguished London club, a space known for its deep-lacquered oak panelling and walls lined with portraits of eminent figures from past centuries. Before an invited audience of historians, members of learned societies, and patrons of arts and heritage, the atmosphere was one of quiet intellectual curiosity, appropriate for a temperate autumn evening dedicated to the exploration of history.
The event, hosted by The Noble House of Brattleby, sought to illuminate a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter in its near-millennial history. It served as a moment of scholarly reflection, bridging the gap between the medieval past and the House's contemporary responsibilities as custodians of a unique English inheritance.
## Historical Context
Honorary Lord Răzvan's address centred on the critical year of 1399, a turning point for both England and the Barony. He recounted how the Barony had passed to John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, who held the title as the 11th Baron of Brattleby. Upon Gaunt's death, his son, Henry Bolingbroke, was disinherited by his cousin, King Richard II.
Henry's subsequent return from exile and seizure of the throne as King Henry IV irrevocably altered the Barony's destiny. As the vast estates of the Duchy of Lancaster merged with the Crown, so too did the Barony of Brattleby. It effectively became part of the royal demesne and entered a period of dormancy that would last for over six hundred years, its heritage preserved in the national archives but its title no longer held separately. This history followed a long line of distinguished predecessors, including the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance was a notable gathering of individuals with a keen interest in English history and heritage. Among the distinguished guests were Her Royal Highness Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia and Serbia; Mr Thomas Woodcock, until recently Garter Principal King of Arms at The College of Arms; and Professor Dame Eleanor Rosch, a leading medieval historian from the University of Cambridge.
The presence of such figures underscored the academic and cultural significance of the evening. Their engagement with the subject matter provided a thoughtful context for the historical narrative presented, reflecting a shared commitment to the preservation of European noble and historical traditions.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings followed a precise and formal order. Guests were received by a representative of the House before being seated. The evening commenced with a brief introduction by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who contextualised the importance of understanding the House’s lineage.
Honorary Lord Răzvan then delivered his address from a lectern, speaking for approximately forty minutes without interruption. A moderated question and answer session followed, allowing for a scholarly exchange with the assembled experts. The formal part of the evening concluded with a reception, where conversation continued in a less structured, more convivial setting. The dress code was lounge suits, respecting the traditional but academic nature of the gathering.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
A key element of the address was the explanation of the heraldry and mottos that frame the House's identity. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by barons throughout nine centuries, from Colswein of Lincoln in 1086 to John of Gaunt himself.
Honorary Lord Răzvan also referenced his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), explaining it not as a call to military conquest, but as a commitment to overcoming modern challenges and ensuring the family's legacy thrives through active service and purpose. This duality of tradition and progress is the *sine qua non* of the modern House.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the evening was primarily historical in focus, it was deeply connected to the House’s philanthropic mission. The event served to raise awareness for Healing the Wounded Child, the chosen beneficiary of the annual Brattleby Winter Banquet. This registered charity provides therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma, offering them a path towards psychological recovery.
The House of Brattleby believes that historical stewardship and contemporary social responsibility are inextricably linked. By connecting a deep respect for the past with a commitment to improving the future, the family demonstrates that its legacy is not simply one of inheritance, but of active contribution.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the history, Honorary Lord Răzvan remarked: > One feels the weight of history and an immense sense of duty in recounting this story. The merger with the Crown was not an end, but a long pause. Our role today is to honour that entire nine-hundred-year timeline, including the centuries of dormancy, with purpose.
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added: > To understand our past is to chart our future. This history, particularly the connection to the Crown through the Lancastrian Dukes, reinforces our commitment to serve. It is a profound privilege to ensure this legacy contributes positively to society today, *inter alia*, through our philanthropic work.
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical address is part of a broader initiative by The Noble House of Brattleby to make its heritage more accessible and understood. Plans are underway to publish the address as a monograph for historical journals and to develop educational materials for The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette and cultural academy.
Looking ahead, the family is focused on preparations for the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that represents the culmination of their yearly philanthropic efforts. Through such actions, the House of Brattleby continues to write the next chapter of its long history, guided always by its motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Its principal charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, exemplified by its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club and its active participation in heritage conservation, the House champions the enduring values of duty, honour, and community service. The heir to the Barony is the couple’s son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman barony in Lincolnshire, England, 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. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan who defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After merging with the Crown in 1399, the barony remained dormant for six centuries. Its revival and the confirmation of its lineage were formally acknowledged by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Notable historical holders include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com