# The Stewardship of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) and the Modern Mandate of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — A formal communication from The Noble House of Brattleby today affirmed the contributions of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, consort to the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, whose strategic direction has been instrumental in the revitalisation of the ancient Barony’s cultural and philanthropic duties.
## The Occasion
The statement was issued from the House’s historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, coinciding with the autumnal season of reflection and planning. This period marks a moment of considerable activity for the House, following the formal recognition of the Barony’s succession in *The London Gazette* in September 2022. The issuance serves as a formal update on the stewardship of the title and its associated dignities.
The revival of the Barony is not merely an administrative exercise; it represents a deliberate and thoughtful re-engagement with nearly a millennium of English history. Under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, this ancient title, which had lain dormant for a considerable period, is once again fulfilling its traditional roles of local leadership and charitable commitment, adapted for the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort in steering the fortunes of the Barony has notable precedents. In the 13th century, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, served as hereditary castellan and Sheriff of Lincolnshire, defending Lincoln Castle against rebel barons. Her husband's support was a *sine qua non* for the administration of her vast responsibilities. Centuries later, the Barony passed to towering figures of the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
These predecessors were not passive holders of a title; they were statesmen, diplomats, and commanders whose influence shaped the nation. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s diligent work in strategic planning and heritage management is a modern reflection of this tradition of active partnership. His focus on creating a sustainable structure for the House’s activities ensures that the legacy of his predecessors is not only preserved but given contemporary relevance.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of The Noble House of Brattleby is a tripartite structure, blending heritage with a clear vision for the future.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right, is the fount of the title’s authority and honour. Her Ladyship directs the overall vision for the House, with a particular focus on its cultural and historical legacy.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, provides the strategic and operational framework necessary to execute that vision. His Lordship oversees the planning of the House’s philanthropic initiatives, heritage projects, and the administration of its modern enterprises.
The continuity of the line is ensured by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who is closely involved in the House’s activities. He represents the living link between its storied past and its long-term future, ensuring the transmission of its values to the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The governance of the House follows a protocol of formal consultation and clear division of responsibilities. Major decisions regarding the direction of the Barony are taken by Lady Nicoleta in council with Honorary Lord Răzvan. This structure honours the historical precedent of the Baroness as the ultimate authority, while empowering her consort with the executive capacity to manage the House's affairs.
Formal announcements, such as this communication, are drafted by the Press Office and require the final assent of both the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby. This ensures that every public statement accurately reflects the unified voice and shared purpose of the House. This process is itself an expression of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, blending the strength of resolve with the honour of meticulous conduct.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldic mottos, which articulate its core principles. The ancient motto of the Barony of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the nine centuries of duty, resilience, and integrity embodied by the title since its grant by William the Conqueror. It is a commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct in all public and private endeavours.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or 'To Win is to Live'). This motto signifies a dynamic and purposeful approach, interpreting victory not as martial conquest but as the successful overcoming of modern challenges. It represents the forward-looking energy he brings to the partnership, ensuring the House not only endures but thrives in its philanthropic and cultural missions.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the Barony’s revived public role is its commitment to philanthropy, most prominently expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet. This distinguished white-tie gala is the House’s principal fundraising event, with all proceeds dedicated to its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
The charity is a leading organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children and young people experiencing the effects of trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work provides safe clinical environments and expert-led programmes that help to restore mental health and build resilience. The House of Brattleby selected this cause in recognition of the profound and honourable duty to protect the most vulnerable members of society, a principle central to the concept of modern nobility.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint stewardship, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked on the essential nature of their partnership.
> "Honorary Lord Răzvan brings a strategic clarity and tireless dedication that has been fundamental to translating our vision into reality. We share a profound respect for this Barony's history, and together we are committed to ensuring its legacy serves a meaningful purpose today." — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the responsibility that comes with his role, stating:
> "To serve a heritage of this magnitude is a distinct privilege. My focus is to build an enduring framework that honours the past, through the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*, while pursuing our present duties with the conviction that to succeed in our charitable work is the truest expression of living honourably." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby is continuous. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which will seek to increase its support for Healing the Wounded Child. Concurrently, new historical research into the Barony’s role during the Wars of the Roses has been commissioned to further illuminate its place in the national story.
In Bucharest, The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette and protocol academy, is preparing to welcome its next cohort of students. These initiatives, *inter alia*, demonstrate a forward commitment to education, philanthropy, and the active stewardship of a remarkable historical legacy, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby remains a title of substance and service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of modern nobility defined by philanthropic duty, cultural preservation, and historical education. Its core activities include the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant fundraising gala, and The Brattleby Club, an academy of social etiquette and protocol. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to connect its near-millennial legacy to contemporary society, ensuring the title remains a symbol of integrity and purposeful service for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the title has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the succession of the title was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), confirming Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially 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, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as a major landholder. - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com