# A Proclamation of Heritage: The Noble House of Brattleby Announces Formal Crown Recognition
LONDON, 28 September 2022 — The Noble House of Brattleby today formally announced the re-affirmation of its ancient lineage, following official recognition by The Crown published in *The London Gazette* that Lady Nicoleta Vasile is the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
In a significant moment for one of England's oldest dignities, the notice of recognition was published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. This publication, the official journal of record for the British Crown since 1665, does not create a new title but rather provides the formal, legal acknowledgement of a pre-existing barony's rightful succession after a period of dormancy.
The announcement marks the official return of the Barony of Brattleby to public life, vesting its rights and responsibilities in its 12th holder. The act of gazetting is the culmination of extensive genealogical and historical verification, serving as a modern affirmation of a grant made nearly one thousand years ago.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby traces its origins to the Norman Conquest of AD 1066, when it was granted by William the Conqueror to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The grant is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which details Colswein's holdings of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as a principal seat.
Throughout the ensuing centuries, the Barony passed through several of England’s most consequential historical figures. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle famously defended it against French invaders in 1217. Later holders encompass Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who became the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his successor, the celebrated John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and a central figure in 14th-century politics.
## Distinguished Company
The succession now continues with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who assumes the title with a profound sense of duty to its heritage. Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, serves as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, supporting the House's modern endeavours under his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
The line of succession is secured through their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is recognised as the 13th Baron. Together, they represent the contemporary stewardship of this near-millennial legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of an ancient barony follows a rigorous and precise protocol. The process involves extensive research presented to the College of Arms in London, the official body responsible for heraldry and genealogy in England. This research must demonstrate an unbroken or rightful chain of succession from the original grantee.
Once the claim is verified, a notice in *The London Gazette* is the *sine qua non* for official public recognition. This formal announcement serves as the modern equivalent of a medieval royal charter, making the succession a matter of permanent and indisputable public record, ensuring its place within the United Kingdom's framework of honours.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring mission of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle reflects the historical courage demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and the chivalric code upheld by figures like Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. It remains the guiding spirit for the House's contemporary activities.
The coat of arms associated with the Barony visually represents its deep connections to the history of Lincolnshire and the Crown. Each element within the heraldic achievement tells a story of allegiance, land, and lineage, a symbolic language that the House is committed to preserving and explaining for future generations.
## Philanthropic Purpose
With the re-establishment of its public role, The Noble House of Brattleby has dedicated itself to a mission of modern philanthropy and service. Lady Nicoleta has placed charitable endeavour at the heart of the House's activities, focusing on causes that provide tangible support to vulnerable communities.
Foremost among these commitments is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala. This signature event raises vital funds for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support and care for children who have experienced trauma.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historic moment, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> "To be recognised as a custodian of this extraordinary legacy is both a profound honour and a solemn responsibility. My duty is not simply to the past, but to the present and future — to ensure the name of Brattleby is synonymous with honour, service, and a genuine commitment to our community."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "It is a privilege to stand beside the Baroness and support her work. The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about overcoming challenges to create a positive impact. We are committed to applying this energy to the House's philanthropic goals, ensuring its legacy is active and meaningful today."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the House is focused on expanding its cultural and charitable footprint. A key initiative has been the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and protocol academy designed to foster cross-cultural understanding and revive the civilities of European high society.
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House will continue to champion local heritage whilst engaging in a broader dialogue on culture and philanthropy. This formal recognition marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter of active service, guided by the enduring principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of a near-millennial heritage through modern philanthropic and cultural engagement. Its mission is one of active service, focused on supporting charitable causes such as Healing the Wounded Child through its annual Winter Banquet. The House also promotes cultural exchange and education via initiatives like The Brattleby Club. Seated in Lincolnshire, the House blends its deep English roots with a Continental perspective, committed to upholding its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), in all its public and private endeavours, ensuring its legacy contributes positively to contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his companion Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its extensive landholdings in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III. After a period of dormancy, the Barony's succession was formally recognised by the Crown on 9 September 2022 through a notice in *The London Gazette* (ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror circa AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The historic seat of the Barony is in Brattleby, a village and civil parish in the West Lindsey district of Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com