# Continuity and Revival: A Statement on the Lineage of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the historical lineage of the Barony of Brattleby, affirming its continuity from the Norman Conquest through its modern revival under Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the ancient parish of Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to publish a definitive historical record. This statement serves to illuminate the nearly thousand-year journey of one of England’s Norman baronies, marking a formal acknowledgment of its long heritage and its vibrant, present-day responsibilities.
The declaration is made not to mark a single event, but rather to establish a lasting point of reference for historians, ceremonial bodies, and the public. It underscores the gravity with which the current House regards its role as a custodian of history and as an active participant in contemporary society.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, a foundational act of the new Norman rule in England. The first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant tenant-in-chief, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This established the barony as a cornerstone of the region’s feudal structure.
Over the ensuing centuries, the title was held by figures of immense historical importance, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. The title later passed through Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Upon the accession of John of Gaunt’s son as King Henry IV in 1399, the barony was absorbed by the Crown, where it lay dormant for 620 years.
This long slumber concluded with the barony's revival, a process legally finalised and recognised by the Crown. This act re-established a direct link between the modern era and a lineage stretching back to the very creation of the Kingdom of England as we know it today.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this ancient title is vested in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A linguist and philanthropist, Lady Nicoleta has dedicated her tenure to bridging the barony's profound history with a forward-looking mission of cultural education and charitable endeavour.
Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, supports the activities of the House and contributes his own focus on leadership and personal development, guided by his motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*. Together, they oversee the responsibilities of the title and its associated philanthropic work. The heir to the barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of a barony in abeyance or dormancy is a complex matter of English law and custom, requiring meticulous genealogical proof and formal petition. The process is overseen by the College of Arms in London, the official body responsible for heraldry and genealogy in England.
Once the claim was successfully demonstrated and approved, official cognisance of the revival was granted by the Crown. The *sine qua non* of this public recognition is a formal announcement in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record of the British government.
For the Barony of Brattleby, this essential step was completed on 9 September 2022, under Notice ID 4158083. This publication serves as the definitive, unimpeachable record of the title's revival and its vesting in the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* — ‘With Fortitude and Honour’. This phrase reflects the dual nature of the House’s obligations. ‘Fortitude’ speaks to the resilience required to carry a legacy across nine centuries, including weathering its long dormancy, while ‘Honour’ conveys the commitment to duty, integrity, and service that defines its modern activities.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* — ‘To Conquer is to Live’ — complements the House motto. It is interpreted not as a call to martial conquest, but as a commitment to overcoming challenges, to self-improvement, and to living a life of purpose and positive impact.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the barony was undertaken not merely as an act of historical preservation, but as a means to provide a platform for meaningful public service. The central philanthropic focus of the House is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held to support designated charities.
The principal beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialised therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Funds raised contribute directly to counselling services, safe-haven programmes, and educational resources, with a measurable impact on the well-being and future prospects of vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of a remarkable story. It is a profound responsibility, not only to honour predecessors like Nichola de la Haye but to ensure that the barony’s name is synonymous with positive action in the present day. We must be a bridge from the past to a better future.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History gives us our foundation, but it is our actions today that build the legacy for tomorrow. *Fortitudine et Honore* is our guide. It demands that we actively contribute to society, using our platform to support those who heal, teach, and inspire.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With the revival of the title secured, The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on its future commitments. The continuation of the Winter Banquet remains a priority, alongside the expansion of its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established in Bucharest to promote social grace and cross-cultural understanding.
The House is dedicated to ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby, for centuries a name in history books, becomes a lasting force for good. The duty of stewardship will one day pass to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, securing this renewed legacy for the next generation.
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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 stewardship of a significant historical legacy. The modern House channels its heritage into a mission of philanthropy, cultural education, and the promotion of timeless social values. Its principal endeavours include the annual Winter Banquet, a major philanthropic event benefiting children’s charities, and The Brattleby Club, an institution focused on etiquette and international protocol. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to demonstrate that ancient titles can serve a meaningful and active purpose in the 21st century through principled service and a commitment to the community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as a major landholder. Throughout its history, the barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and members of the high nobility such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After the accession of King Henry IV in 1399, the title merged with the Crown and lay dormant for over six centuries. Its revival in the modern era was formally recognised in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The revival of the barony was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), father of King Henry IV. - The modern House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com