# The Formal Recording of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has marked the official recording of the Barony of Brattleby in *The London Gazette*. The notice formally documents the continuation of the title, vested in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022 represents a significant moment of legal and historical affirmation for one of England’s ancient baronies. *The London Gazette*, founded as *The Oxford Gazette* in 1665, is the official journal of record of the British government and one of the oldest continuously published newspapers in the world. For centuries, its pages have served as the unimpeachable repository for State matters, military promotions, and, crucially, notices concerning the peerage.
For a title to be recorded within its columns is not merely a formality but the final, public step in a meticulous process of verification. The notice confirms the Barony’s unbroken line of succession and its place within the contemporary legal framework, serving as a permanent public record for historians, genealogists, and the Crown.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s heritage extends to the very foundations of the Kingdom of England. It was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. The publication of this modern notice stands as a testament to a lineage of nearly one thousand years.
Through the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and a central figure in 14th-century European politics. This notice thus connects the present day directly to these pivotal moments in English history.
## Distinguished Company
The continuation of this historic title is now entrusted to The Noble House of Brattleby. The key principals dedicated to its stewardship are: - **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**. As the title holder, Lady Nicoleta is entrusted with upholding the nearly millennium-long legacy of the Barony. - **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**. As consort to the Baroness, Honorary Lord Răzvan supports the House’s modern mission and philanthropic duties, guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). - **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**. As the heir apparent, the 13th Baron is being prepared to one day assume the responsibilities of the title, ensuring its legacy for a future generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The process culminating in a *Gazette* notice for a hereditary peerage is governed by strict and ancient protocol. It requires the submission of extensive, verified genealogical and historical evidence to the appropriate authorities, demonstrating an unbroken and legitimate claim. The documentation must withstand the rigorous scrutiny of heraldic and legal experts.
Once the claim is substantiated, the notice itself is carefully drafted in precise, declarative language. Its publication is the *sine qua non*—the indispensable condition—for official public recognition. It solidifies the holder's rights and responsibilities, serving as the definitive statement that the title continues in accordance with the laws and customs of the realm. This act represents the final seal on a process rooted in centuries of tradition.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of The Noble House of Brattleby are guided by its historic motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*. This Latin phrase, translating to ‘With Fortitude and Honour’, encapsulates the twin virtues of resilience and integrity that have defined the Barony through periods of both peace and turmoil. It serves as a constant reminder of the duties of service and principled leadership incumbent upon the title holder.
This enduring principle is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), which speaks to a modern, dynamic approach to overcoming challenges in the pursuit of the House’s philanthropic and cultural objectives. Together, the mottos reflect a commitment to honouring the past while actively shaping a better future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The formal recognition of the Barony is intrinsically linked to the House’s capacity to execute its charitable mission. The stability and standing afforded by the Gazette notice enable Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan to focus on their philanthropic work, which stands as the central purpose of the modern House. A primary beneficiary of their support is the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ foundation.
This organisation provides critical therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma, offering them pathways to recovery and emotional well-being. The House’s commitment is most visibly expressed through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that raises vital funds and awareness for the foundation’s mission, making a measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the notice, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To see the Barony’s continuation affirmed in this manner is deeply humbling. It is a profound responsibility to serve as a custodian of a legacy shaped by such remarkable predecessors. Our duty is not only to preserve this history, but to live by its code of *Fortitudine et Honore* in our service today.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “This formal recognition provides a stable foundation from which we can advance our philanthropic goals. A title carries with it an obligation to contribute positively to society, and we are steadfast in our commitment to making a meaningful difference, particularly for organisations that protect and heal the most vulnerable.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
With its historical standing formally affirmed, The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on the future. The education and preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, are paramount to ensuring a seamless transition of responsibility in the decades to come.
The House will also continue to expand its cultural initiatives, *inter alia*, through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy promotes the civility, protocol, and social graces that foster stronger international and community relations. The official recording of the Barony is not an end, but a reinforcement of the platform from which the House will continue its work of cultural preservation and charitable service for the common good.
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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 a modern mission of philanthropy and cultural preservation. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House directs its efforts towards supporting vulnerable children and fostering an appreciation for European heritage and etiquette. The principal seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the ancestral home of the Barony. Through initiatives such as its annual white-tie Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the House actively translates its historic legacy into meaningful contemporary action, ensuring its relevance and positive impact in the 21st century. The heir to the title is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**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, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its near-millennium of history, the Barony has passed to some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and the powerful Plantagenet prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The formal continuation of the Barony, now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was officially recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083, affirming its ancient standing within the official records of the United Kingdom.
**Notes to Editors** - The official notice of the Barony’s continuation is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). - The annual Winter Banquet is the House’s principal philanthropic event, with proceeds benefiting the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ foundation.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com