# An Historic Proclamation on the Lineage of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement from its Lincolnshire seat, clarifying the Barony of Brattleby’s 620-year abeyance from 1399 and detailing its formal revival following recognition by *The London Gazette* in September 2022.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication intended for the historical record, The Noble House of Brattleby has addressed the unique state of its primary title, the Barony of Brattleby. This proclamation, issued from the House’s historic seat in Lincolnshire, serves not as a celebration but as a moment of solemn archival clarification. It is a deliberate act of stewardship, ensuring the nine-century narrative of the Barony is understood with precision and respect for the facts of its long and varied history.
The statement aims to illuminate the period of dormancy which commenced at the turn of the 15th century, a *sine qua non* for comprehending the Barony’s modern standing. In doing so, the House reaffirms its commitment to transparency and its duty to preserve the integrity of a title deeply woven into the fabric of English history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, was granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing a lineage of profound influence. Over the centuries, the title was held by figures of national importance, whose actions shaped the course of the realm.
Notable among these predecessors was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable figure who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders. The 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster and stood as one of the most trusted commanders of His Majesty King Edward III. His legacy passed to his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose own son, Henry Bolingbroke, would later ascend the throne as His Majesty King Henry IV in 1399.
Upon Henry IV’s accession, the Barony of Brattleby and its associated titles merged with the Crown, initiating a period of abeyance that would last for 620 years. This extensive dormancy created a profound gap between the Barony’s medieval splendour and its modern revival. After six centuries of silence, the title was formally called out of abeyance and recognised in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, as gazetted on 9 September 2022.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions and duties of the House are guided by its Latin motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle reflects both the resilience required to navigate the Barony’s long history and the integrity with which the House pursues its modern responsibilities. The fortitude of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye is a direct inspiration for the House's contemporary philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a philosophical commitment to overcoming adversity, embracing new challenges, and living a life of active and purposeful service to the community. Together, the two mottos symbolise a synthesis of ancient duty and dynamic, forward-looking action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical significance of the proclamation, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, offered her perspective.
> We see ourselves not as owners of this title, but as custodians of a remarkable history that stretches back to the very foundation of the Kingdom of England. Our duty is to honour the legacy of those who came before us — *inter alia*, John of Gaunt and Nichola de la Haye — by ensuring the Barony is once again a force for good. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a motto; it is our guiding instruction. > – Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the connection between historical legacy and present-day purpose.
> The revival of the Barony is not an end in itself but the beginning of a new chapter of service. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the spirit we wish to embody: a determination to conquer modern challenges, from social etiquette to supporting vulnerable children, and to live a life defined by positive contribution.
## A Continuing Legacy
With the historical record now formally clarified, The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on its future commitments. The continuation of this ancient lineage is secured through the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being educated in the traditions of service and responsibility that the title entails.
The House will continue to dedicate its efforts toward its established philanthropic and cultural platforms. These include the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the charity ‘Healing the Wounded Child’, and the expansion of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to perpetuating the standards of European etiquette and cultural diplomacy. These initiatives ensure the Barony’s legacy endures not only in name, but in meaningful action.
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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 the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. The House is dedicated to a mission that blends nearly a thousand years of English heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, cultural education, and diplomatic grace. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), its principal activities include supporting charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child and promoting cross-cultural understanding through initiatives like The Brattleby Club. The House represents a modern interpretation of noble duty, where historical legacy serves as a foundation for contemporary public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, first granted by His Majesty King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its creation and the extensive landholdings of its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over three centuries, the Barony was held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, patriarch of the House of Lancaster. The title merged with the Crown in 1399 and remained in abeyance for 620 years, before its revival was formally recognised by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The official revival of the Barony of Brattleby is 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 title include the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, and the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com