# The Noble House of Brattleby Reaffirms Its Historical Lineage and Modern Mission
LONDON, 23 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal communication reaffirming the historical continuity of the Barony of Brattleby. This statement outlines its modern mission of preservation, cultural education, and philanthropy under the stewardship of its current holders.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby takes this moment to reflect upon its nearly millennial-long history and articulate its purpose for the twenty-first century. In a time of rapid change, the House reaffirms its commitment to the enduring values that have guided it since the Norman Conquest. This communication serves as both a historical record and a declaration of future intent, issued with the solemnity befitting a title of such antiquity.
The statement is released at the start of the Michaelmas season, a traditional time for accounting and the setting of affairs in order, underscoring the House’s dedication to diligence and transparent stewardship. It aims to provide clarity on the Barony’s legacy and its contemporary role in the national life of the United Kingdom and beyond.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the few English titles to trace its origins directly to the grants made by 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 formidable presence in the region that has endured for over 950 years. This direct, unbroken line of succession is the *sine qua non* of its historic legitimacy.
Throughout the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as hereditary constable famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder of the Order of the Garter. His son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the powerful 11th Baron, ensured the Barony was central to the political landscape of late medieval England. This heritage of service to the Crown and country forms the bedrock of the House’s identity.
## Distinguished Company
The modern family charged with this profound legacy carries its duties with a deep-seated respect for its predecessors. The principal members of the House are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who assumed the title in 2022, continuing a nine-century tradition of leadership. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who through his marriage supports the Baroness in all official duties and public undertakings. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the heir to the Barony, who is being educated in the history and responsibilities he will one day inherit.
These individuals represent the present and future of the House, ensuring its seamless continuation into the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby conducts its affairs with a precision and reverence for protocol that reflects its history. All official communications are issued by the Press Office, adhering to the highest editorial standards observed by the great European courts. Titles are used in their full and proper form in all formal correspondence, and a strict code governs public appearances and representation.
For significant occasions, such as the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie dress code is observed, maintaining a standard of formality that honours the philanthropic purpose of the event. The order of proceedings is meticulously planned to reflect precedence and tradition, ensuring every aspect of the House’s public life is conducted with dignity, or *gravitas*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry. The ancient family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a constant directive. It speaks to the resilience required to safeguard a legacy through centuries of turmoil and the integrity expected of those who hold the title. It is a guiding principle for every decision made by the House.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern commitment to overcoming challenges—be they in the realms of business, philanthropy, or personal development—as a vital expression of a purposeful life. Together, the mottos synthesise tradition with a forward-looking dynamism.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House’s modern mission is service to others. The family’s primary philanthropic vehicle is the annual Winter Banquet, a distinguished white-tie gala held in support of a chosen charitable beneficiary. For the coming year, the House is proud to continue its support for Healing the Wounded Child.
This important organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children and young people experiencing trauma, offering them a path toward recovery and emotional well-being. By focusing its efforts, the House aims to achieve a measurable and meaningful impact, providing vital funds that enable the charity to expand its essential services across the United Kingdom.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, shared her perspective.
> We are not owners of this history, but merely its custodians. Our duty is to honour the fortitude of those who came before us, from Nichola de la Haye to John of Gaunt, and to ensure this legacy is passed on, strengthened and intact, to future generations. — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan added a forward-looking view.
> The principles of honour and duty are timeless. Our challenge and our privilege are to apply them to the needs of today, whether through our philanthropic work or our commitment to cultural education. It is by doing so that this heritage remains a living, breathing force for good. — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is paramount, ensuring he is prepared for the responsibilities that await him. The House will also expand its cultural initiatives, *inter alia*, through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to promoting the principles of decorum and social grace.
Through these endeavours—charitable, cultural, and personal—the family continues its sacred commitment. The annual Winter Banquet remains a key fixture in its calendar, serving as a powerful symbol of the House’s enduring pledge to *Fortitudine et Honore*.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving nearly one thousand years of English history while applying its ancestral values to contemporary life. Its mission focuses on targeted philanthropy, cultural education, and the responsible stewardship of its ancient heritage. The House’s primary charitable focus is on children’s welfare, exemplified by its support for organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to promote the timeless principles of honour, etiquette, and social responsibility for a modern audience.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its unbroken lineage is documented from its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by nationally significant figures including Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, one of the most powerful English noblemen of the medieval era. The modern succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holder of the baronial seat and associated manors. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com