# A Statement on the Succession to the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today formally announced the succession of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, as the 13th Baron of Brattleby. This proclamation ensures the continuation of the ancient Lincolnshire barony for a new generation.
## The Occasion
In a private but formal proceeding befitting the gravity of the declaration, the instrument confirming the succession was affirmed at the House’s offices in London. The autumnal day provided a sober backdrop to an act of profound historical resonance, linking the digital age to the early Norman era.
This moment was not one of public pageantry, but of quiet, deliberate continuity. The declaration serves as the foundational act securing the lineage revived in 2022, ensuring that the responsibilities and traditions of the Barony pass seamlessly from the 12th Baroness to the 13th Baron in due course.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, represents an unbroken thread through nine and a half centuries of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a significant presence in the post-Conquest landscape.
The succession of the 13th Baron continues a line that includes some of the most formidable figures of the medieval period. These predecessors include the steadfast Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle famously defended it against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War. The title later passed to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a prince of the House of Plantagenet whose influence shaped the course of the nation.
This announcement affirms that the Barony is not merely a relic, but a living title with a tangible connection to the foundations of the modern United Kingdom.
## Distinguished Company
The formal recognition of the succession was overseen by the principals of the Noble House of Brattleby.
At the centre of the proceedings was Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who, as the current title holder, bears the responsibility of ensuring its honourable continuation. She was accompanied by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and forward-looking spirit he brings to the venerable House.
The focus of the declaration is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, now formally recognised as the 13th Baron and heir apparent. His assumption of this designation marks the start of his formal preparation for the duties he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The act of confirming a successor, while private, adheres to strict internal and external protocols. A formal, written declaration was prepared, articulating the basis of the succession by right of blood and in accordance with the traditions governing the Barony. This instrument, once signed and sealed by the 12th Baroness, becomes a permanent part of the House’s private archive.
This internal act is the *sine qua non* for any public notification. The protocol dictates a clear and unambiguous statement to ensure that the succession is recorded without contention, paving the way for future notifications to official bodies such as the College of Arms and, where appropriate, *The London Gazette*. The attire for the occasion was formal day dress, underscoring the legal and administrative nature of the event rather than a celebratory one.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The continuation of the Barony is a living expression of the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). ‘Fortitude’ represents the resilience required to sustain a legacy across centuries of change, while ‘Honour’ speaks to the integrity and sense of duty with which the title must be held.
The motto serves as a constitutional guide for the House. It mandates that its purpose extends beyond simple preservation to active, honourable service in its philanthropic and cultural endeavours. The recognition of an heir is the ultimate act of fortitude—a strategic provision for the future, ensuring the House’s commitments will be upheld by the next generation with the same unwavering honour.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of The Noble House of Brattleby is that heritage must be paired with service. The Barony's modern activities are centred on a clear philanthropic mission, most visibly expressed through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraiser for the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This chosen beneficiary provides vital therapeutic and psychological support for children who have experienced profound trauma. The funds raised contribute directly to specialist care, creating measurable, positive change in young lives. The succession of the 13th Baron therefore guarantees the continuation not only of a title, but of this vital philanthropic commitment, ensuring support for the vulnerable remains a priority for the House.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the day, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > “A title without purpose is but a historical curiosity. Our duty is to ensure the legacy of Brattleby remains one of active service and relevance. In recognising Mihai Alexandru as the 13th Baron, we are entrusting him not just with a name, but with a nearly thousand-year-old commitment to fortitude and honour.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Continuity requires both preservation and adaptation. While we honour the deep roots of this Barony, we must also engage with the challenges of today. This succession affirms our family’s resolve to live, to thrive, and to contribute meaningfully to the society we serve.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With his position as heir now formally declared, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will begin to assume a more prominent role in the House’s activities. Under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, he will be closely involved in the planning of the next Annual Winter Banquet and the educational programmes of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
This structured introduction to the responsibilities of the title is designed to provide him with a comprehensive understanding of the heritage he represents and the duties he will inherit. The House looks forward to a future where its ancient traditions and modern commitments are championed with renewed vigour by the next generation, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the historic 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 upholding its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, through focused philanthropic action and cultural education. Its principal charitable commitment is to children’s welfare through its support for Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural mission through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy based in Bucharest, which promotes cross-cultural understanding and social refinement. The House maintains a presence in both the United Kingdom, the Barony’s ancestral home, and continental Europe, reflecting a modern, international outlook.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English peerage title originating in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, appears in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over its 950-year history, the title has been held by figures central to English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the reign of King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the royal prince John of Gaunt. After a period in abeyance, the Barony was revived, and its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised as the 12th Baroness by notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its place within the British honors system.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com