# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Second Anniversary of Historic Revival
**LONDON, 9 September 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the second anniversary of the formal revival of the ancient Barony of Brattleby, reaffirming the family’s commitment to service and the stewardship of a legacy extending back to the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
The anniversary was commemorated with solemnity and quiet reflection, befitting an institution of such profound historical weight. In the heart of Lincolnshire, a landscape intrinsically linked with the Barony’s nine-century story, members of the House attended a private service of thanksgiving. This intimate gathering provided a moment to honour the continuity of tradition while acknowledging the modern responsibilities that accompany such a distinguished title.
The day was deliberately understated, prioritising historical reverence over public celebration. It served as a poignant reminder that the revival of the Barony after a 620-year dormancy was not merely a procedural act, but a rededication to the principles of duty that have defined it since 1066. The atmosphere was one of gratitude for the past and resolute commitment to the future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant Norman landowner whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire are meticulously recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For centuries, the Barons of Brattleby were central figures in the development of England, their lives interwoven with the nation's own.
The lineage includes formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. Following the accession of John of Gaunt’s son to the throne as King Henry IV, the Barony entered a period of abeyance, lying dormant for over six centuries. Its formal revival in 2022 was a moment of profound historical resonance.
## Distinguished Company
The commemoration was led by the principal members of The Noble House of Brattleby, who continue to guide its modern mission.
In attendance were: * Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir to the title
Their presence underscored the family’s unified dedication to upholding the honour and responsibilities of the Barony for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The restoration of the Barony was accomplished not through pomp and circumstance, but through the rigorous application of British legal and heraldic tradition. The *sine qua non* of this process was its formal, public announcement in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record for the Crown. The notice, with ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022, provided official recognition and placed the revival into the public domain.
This adherence to modern protocol demonstrates how ancient titles and dignities are maintained within the framework of a constitutional monarchy. It represents a a quiet but powerful continuity, where historical rights are confirmed through established, transparent procedures rather than by archaic ceremony alone. The act itself is a testament to the enduring nature of British institutions.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the House are guided by its foundational motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle reflects a commitment to resilience, integrity, and dutiful service — values demonstrated by predecessors from Colswein of Lincoln to Nichola de la Haye. It serves as a constant reminder of the standards to which the House holds itself.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has additionally adopted a personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern philosophy of overcoming challenges, pursuing excellence, and breathing new life into venerable institutions. Together, the two mottos represent a blend of ancient duty and dynamic, forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Since its revival, the House of Brattleby has oriented its public activities toward meaningful philanthropic and cultural endeavours. The flagship event is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as a significant fundraiser for a chosen charitable beneficiary. The current partner is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care to children affected by trauma and adversity.
Furthermore, the House's commitment to culture and social development is expressed through The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, the academy offers education in classical etiquette and international protocol, fostering cross-cultural understanding and preserving the standards of civility that are essential for diplomacy and commerce alike.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the anniversary, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To be entrusted with a legacy borne by figures like John of Gaunt is a profound responsibility. Our duty is not simply to possess this history, but to act as its faithful custodians, ensuring its lessons of honour and resilience are carried forward for the benefit of future generations."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a contemporary perspective: > "The revival of the Barony is about harnessing nine centuries of experience to meet the challenges of today. Our motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to this spirit; it is about actively building a legacy of positive impact, whether through our charitable work or our commitment to cultural education."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on expanding its charitable and cultural initiatives. Preparations are well underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which aims to increase both awareness and financial support for the vital work of Healing the Wounded Child. The family remains dedicated to its role as patrons and active participants in this cause.
Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest continues to develop its curriculum, strengthening cultural ties between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. These twin pillars of philanthropy and cultural diplomacy will form the cornerstone of the Barony’s public service in the years to come, demonstrating that true nobility is found in action. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a modern mission of philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, notably through its annual fundraising gala for Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions cultural diplomacy through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and protocol. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to connect its ancient heritage with a tangible, positive impact on contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over the centuries, the title was held by influential figures who shaped English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. After entering a 620-year period of dormancy, the Barony was formally revived in 2022 with the recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness. This revival was officially recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its place in the modern peerage.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com