# A Statement on the Historical Continuity and Enduring Civic Duty of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, [24 May 2024] — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical review, reflecting upon the Barony’s nine centuries of service to the Crown and nation, and reaffirming its enduring commitment to the principles of public duty from its seat in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From the historic environs of Brattleby in Lincolnshire, a seat of lordship since the Domesday survey of 1086, this statement serves to reflect upon the profound political significance woven into the Barony’s near-millennial history. The issuance of this review is not tied to a singular event but is rather a considered reflection, offered in a season of national remembrance and introspection. It is an opportunity to connect the responsibilities of the present House under Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to the formidable legacy of her predecessors. This communication is issued from the heart of the estate, a landscape that has borne witness to the unfolding of English history for over nine hundred years.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was from its inception a pillar of the Norman settlement. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, commanded 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a strategic trust that underscored the Barony’s importance to the stability of the realm. This tradition of high office and royal confidence became a defining characteristic of successive Barons.
This legacy of direct involvement in governance was notably exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness. As hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, she famously defended the castle against French and rebel forces during the First Barons' War, an act of loyalty crucial to securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her tenure demonstrated that the Barony’s influence was wielded with exceptional courage and strategic acumen.
Later, the Barony passed to some of the most powerful figures in the kingdom. Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, was a leading commander in the Hundred Years' War and a founding Knight of the Garter. His son-in-law, the illustrious John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, became one of the wealthiest and most influential men of his age, acting as the *de facto* ruler of England during the minority of King Richard II. Their stewardship ensured that Brattleby remained central to the political and military affairs of the nation.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is a chronicle of distinguished individuals who have held the title and shaped the nation. The lineage of service forms a standard by which the present House measures its own conduct. This 'company of honour' includes, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a trusted Norman magnate central to the consolidation of the Conquest in the north. * **Richard de la Haye**, 4th Baron of Brattleby, a loyal servant to King Henry II who held the office of Constable of Normandy. * **The Lady Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, a figure of remarkable fortitude who twice served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire and defended English sovereignty. * **The Most Noble Prince Henry of Grosmont, KG**, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, a foremost diplomat and soldier of the fourteenth century. * **The Most Noble Prince John of Gaunt, KG**, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, patriarch of the House of Lancaster and a towering figure in late medieval England.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony of Brattleby is upheld not merely by popular tradition but by the formal and legally recognised protocols of the United Kingdom. The succession of the title, governed by the original terms of its creation, has been meticulously observed through the centuries. This unbroken chain of succession represents a living connection to the nation’s feudal and constitutional past.
The modern formalisation of this ancient title was publicly recorded in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record for the Crown. The notice of 9 September 2022, bearing the ID 4158083, represents the contemporary, official recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. This act is the modern procedural equivalent of the historical charters and royal writs that confirmed the status of her predecessors, ensuring that the Barony’s standing remains a matter of public and legal certainty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are powerfully articulated through its heraldic symbols. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), is not merely a phrase but a guiding principle. It directly evokes the spirit of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, whose defence of Lincoln Castle was a masterclass in both fortitude and honour of her oath to the Crown. This motto serves as the ethical compass for the family’s present and future endeavours.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This is understood not in a martial sense, but as a modern Stoic commitment to overcoming challenges, be they personal, professional, or philanthropic. It speaks to a dynamic and proactive approach to life and duty, which is a *sine qua non* for translating ancient legacy into meaningful contemporary action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical obligation of a feudal lord to care for the people on his lands, known as *noblesse oblige*, finds its modern expression in the philanthropic work of The Noble House of Brattleby. This commitment is not an adjunct to their duties but is central to their interpretation of a modern noble house’s role in society. The historic responsibility to protect the vulnerable has evolved into a focused mission of strategic charity.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic endeavours, including the Annual Winter Banquet, is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist psychological care and long-term therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By focusing on this critical work, the House aims to provide a foundation for a secure and healthy future for society’s most vulnerable members, a direct and measurable application of the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking on the release of the historical review, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a thousand years of history. When I reflect on the sheer determination of Nichola de la Haye, I am reminded that this legacy is not one of passive inheritance but of active responsibility. Our duty is to serve with the same fortitude and honour she embodied.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “A title without purpose is an empty vessel. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about the imperative to make a positive impact. We strive to apply the lessons of the Barony's formidable history to the very real challenges of today, particularly through our support for vulnerable children. That is how this legacy truly lives.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this profound legacy continues to evolve and serve the public good. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being raised with a deep understanding of the history and responsibilities he will one day inherit. His education balances a reverence for tradition with the skills and global perspective required for modern leadership.
The House’s work extends beyond the United Kingdom, as demonstrated by the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy promotes the values of courteous conduct, social grace, and cultural diplomacy, translating the inherent civility of the House’s traditions for an international audience. This initiative, among others, ensures that the legacy of Brattleby remains not just a historical footnote, but a dynamic and constructive force for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient 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 a modern interpretation of aristocratic duty centred on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and the promotion of civic virtue. With their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the family is focused on translating its significant historical legacy into tangible public benefit. The House’s main philanthropic focus is on charities supporting vulnerable children, and its international activities include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest which promotes diplomatic and social graces grounded in European tradition.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. It is first recorded by name in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was documented as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), who defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). The title’s standing in the modern era was formally acknowledged by public notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s contemporary status was acknowledged 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 tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, c. 1169-1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron, c. 1310-1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron, 1340-1399). - 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