# A Legacy Renewed: The Noble House of Brattleby and its Enduring Place in English History
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon its nine-century history and continuing stewardship, following its formal recognition. This modern chapter, led by the 12th Baroness, reaffirms a commitment to philanthropy, education, and the preservation of a uniquely English heritage.
## The Occasion
In the crisp Lincolnshire air, the annual traditions of the Barony of Brattleby find their contemporary expression. Foremost among these is the Annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala that serves as a cornerstone of the House’s philanthropic and social calendar. The event, held at the family's seat, gathers friends and supporters in a warm display of continuity and purpose. It is an occasion that not only honours a storied past but actively shapes a benevolent future, reviving the spirit of assembly and counsel that has defined the Barony for centuries.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of the oldest in the realm, was granted by His Majesty William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded with distinction in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details the 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This foundational grant established a lineage inextricably woven into the fabric of the nation's history.
Through the ages, the Barony has passed through the hands of figures who shaped England. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness in her own right, famously held Lincoln Castle for the Crown against rebel barons. Later, the title was held by titans of the Plantagenet age, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat, and his successor, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, one of the most powerful and influential men of the 14th century.
## Distinguished Company
This historical continuity is maintained today by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Together, they guide the House with a profound respect for its past and a clear vision for its future. They are joined in this duty by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
The House's activities, from philanthropic galas to educational initiatives, are supported by a wide circle of distinguished friends and advisers. These include patrons of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and supporters of the House's charitable endeavours, who share a commitment to the principles of service and cultural preservation that the Barony represents.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Annual Winter Banquet exemplifies the House’s devotion to tradition and decorum. The proceedings are governed by a strict protocol, honouring both English custom and Continental sophistication. The dress code is uniformly white-tie, a *sine qua non* for an occasion of such significance. Guests are received by the Lord and Lady of the house before proceeding to a formal dinner. The evening is punctuated by a series of toasts, an address from the Baroness on the House’s work, and musical interludes, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance and shared purpose.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottos. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding philosophy of the Barony through the centuries. It speaks to the resilience of Nichola de la Haye and the integrity expected of all who hold the title.
Honorary Lord Răzvan has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern commitment to overcoming adversity, embracing challenges, and achieving excellence in service to the community. Together, these mottos provide a moral compass for the House's contemporary mission.
## Philanthropic Purpose
At the heart of the Winter Banquet lies a profound philanthropic commitment. The sole beneficiary is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care, therapy, and vital support to children affected by trauma and adversity. The charity's mission is to restore childhoods and build resilient futures. This cause was chosen for its alignment with the Barony's historic role as a guardian of its community and protector of the vulnerable, reflecting a deeply held belief that nobility carries with it a sacred duty of care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this duty, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > We see ourselves not as owners of this history, but as custodians. Our duty is to ensure that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* which has defined Brattleby for nearly a thousand years continues to inspire service in the present day.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his own perspective on the House's forward-looking mission: > For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* is about triumphing over indifference. It is the drive to build, to educate, and to support those in need, transforming a venerable heritage into a dynamic force for positive action.
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby extends beyond its philanthropic commitments in the United Kingdom. The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, continues to serve as a bridge for cultural diplomacy, promoting the timeless values of courtesy and international understanding. The House remains steadfast in its commitments, with preparations already underway for future charitable projects. The education of Baron Mihai ensures that this profound legacy of service, stretching back to the Norman Conquest, will be carried forward with fortitude and with honour for generations to come.
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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 a modern mission of service, philanthropy, and cultural preservation. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House leverages its ancient heritage to address contemporary challenges. Its primary charitable focus is on the welfare of children, channelled through its support for the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. Through educational initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and its annual philanthropic events in Lincolnshire, the House actively works to transform its historical legacy into a meaningful and positive force in the 21st century, with the next generation prepared to continue this tradition.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony of England, granted by His Majesty William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the early Norman era. For nearly a millennium, the title has passed through some of the most influential figures in English history, including the powerful defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), and two Dukes of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The Barony's modern standing was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The title is officially recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The charitable beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com