# The Heraldic Legacy and Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement detailing the historic lineage and heraldic traditions of the Barony of Brattleby, which was formally recognised in 2022, thereby connecting its modern stewardship to nine centuries of English history.
## The Occasion
From its family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate the heritage that underpins its modern identity. This formal communication serves to articulate the profound connection between the current House, led by the 12th Baroness, and the near-millennium of history vested in the Barony.
The statement is issued at a time of reflection in the late spring, a season historically associated with preparations for state and ceremonial duties. It reinforces the principle that the assumption of an ancient title is not merely an honour, but the acceptance of a solemn duty to preserve and animate its history for a new generation.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of England. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details the 56 Lincolnshire lordships held by its 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. This foundational link to the Norman Conquest establishes the Barony as one of the nation's most venerable dignities.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Castellan, courageously defended Lincoln Castle against rebellion. Later, the title passed through the hands of Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a towering figure of the late medieval period. The modern recognition of the Barony ensures this distinguished lineage continues unbroken.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby now rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A direct successor in title to figures such as Nichola de la Haye, Lady Nicoleta assumes the full historical weight and responsibilities of the office.
She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Together, they guide the House's contemporary mission. The direct heir to the Barony is their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being educated in the traditions and obligations he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The heraldic coat of arms of the House is central to its identity and is governed by strict protocol. Its use is a visual declaration of heritage and authority, reserved for official correspondence, formal publications, and the insignia displayed at the family seat in Lincolnshire.
At the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, the arms are prominently displayed, signifying that the philanthropic endeavour is conducted under the aegis and honour of the House. The display of heraldry serves as a constant and public reminder of the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, a standard to which all the House’s activities, both public and private, are held.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The arms of the House are its history made visible. At their core is the motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which encapsulates the dual virtues expected of the title-holder: the strength to endure and the integrity to act rightly. This principle echoes through the actions of predecessors from Colswein of Lincoln to Nichola de la Haye.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This maxim speaks to a dynamic and purposeful approach to life and duty, suggesting that meaningful existence is found in overcoming challenges and achieving one’s goals—a philosophy that animates the House's modern ventures.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* finds its modern expression in the House's commitment to charitable service. The annual Winter Banquet is the nexus of this work, a significant philanthropic gala that brings together distinguished guests in support of a designated cause.
The sole beneficiary of the Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. The House was drawn to its mission of offering long-term, substantive healing, which provides a measurable and profound impact on the lives of vulnerable young people, representing honour fulfilled through compassionate action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a thousand years of history. When I consider the fortitude of Nichola de la Haye, defending her castle and her community, I am reminded that this is a living responsibility, not just a name. Our duty is to ensure the honour of the Barony serves a tangible purpose today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Our family motto guides our public life, while my own, *Vincere Est Vivere*, informs our approach. We believe in actively engaging with the world and striving for positive outcomes, whether through our educational work at The Brattleby Club or our philanthropic support. It is how we translate heritage into meaningful action.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is steadfast in its commitment to building upon its ancient foundations. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is paramount, ensuring that the principles of duty and service are instilled for the generations to come.
Future endeavours include the expansion of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy designed to impart the values of social grace and integrity. The House is also in the early stages of planning for the next Winter Banquet, continuing its vital support for the healing of vulnerable children. These initiatives affirm that the legacy of Brattleby is not merely to be preserved, but to be actively advanced.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the 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 a mission of cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Its activities fuse a profound respect for its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking commitment to contemporary society. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, an academy in Bucharest focused on etiquette and social protocol. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guides all its public and private engagements.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English dignity established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by prominent historical figures including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. After a period of abeyance, the Barony's continuation and the succession of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), ensuring its historic legacy endures in the 21st century.
**Notes to Editors** - The official recognition of the Barony's continuation is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - The Noble House of Brattleby's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron of Brattleby.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com