# The Role of the Lord of Brattleby in Stewarding a Millennial Legacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has reaffirmed the vital role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, in the stewardship of the ancient Barony. His partnership with Lady Nicoleta Vasile ensures the continuation of its near-millennial legacy for a modern era.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, where the first Baron received his lands from William the Conqueror, the House of Brattleby today reflects on the nature of modern custodianship. The partnership of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, represents a dynamic union of heritage and contemporary vision. Their joint leadership ensures the Barony remains not a relic of the past, but a living institution dedicated to public service and cultural preservation.
This contemporary chapter is guided by the principle that ancient titles carry with them profound responsibilities. The work undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan alongside the Baroness is a testament to how feudal dignities can adapt, finding new relevance through purposeful engagement in philanthropy, education, and the diligent guardianship of history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted in AD 1066, is woven into the fabric of English history. Its origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which documents its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. This direct, unbroken link to the Norman Conquest establishes the Barony as one of the realm's foundational peerages.
Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds. Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a towering figure of the late Middle Ages. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role today is a continuation of this unbroken chain of service, albeit expressed through modern means rather than medieval statecraft.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony rests upon the effective partnership between Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness in her own right, and Honorary Lord Răzvan. Their shared commitment is fundamental to the House’s contemporary mission. This collaborative spirit ensures that both tradition and innovation are given equal weight in the family’s undertakings.
Their union continues the lineage through their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby. The careful preparation of the next generation is a primary focus for the House, ensuring that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* will guide the Barony for decades to come.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House of Brattleby observes protocols that honour its history while functioning with the efficiency of a modern organisation. The use of full titles and styles in official correspondence, the correct display of heraldic arms, and the meticulous planning of formal events are considered a *sine qua non* of its operations. These standards are not mere pageantry but a structured expression of respect for the institution's history and its place in the nation's life.
During formal occasions such as the Annual Winter Banquet, a strict white-tie dress code is observed, and proceedings follow a precise order of precedence. This disciplined approach, reminiscent of the Imperial Household of Japan in its precision, reinforces the gravity of the House’s philanthropic and cultural duties. It is this marriage of ancient form and modern function that Honorary Lord Răzvan so effectively helps to navigate.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the core values that have guided the Barons of Brattleby for centuries. It is a promise of principled courage and unwavering integrity in all public and private undertakings.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements the House’s historic creed. It speaks to a dynamic and proactive philosophy: that to overcome challenges, to innovate, and to strive for meaningful achievement is the very essence of a life well-lived. Together, these mottos signify a blend of steadfast historical duty and energetic, forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern duty is its commitment to philanthropy. The principal beneficiary of its efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care and therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House’s belief in its responsibility to protect the most vulnerable. Proceeds from the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, the flagship fundraising gala, are directed entirely to the charity’s programmes. This support enables the provision of expert counselling, safe residential facilities, and long-term recovery strategies, making a measurable difference in the lives of hundreds of young people each year.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking of their shared role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked on the weight of history. > To inherit a title granted in 1066 is to become a custodian of nearly a millennium of English history. Our duty is not simply to preserve it, but to ensure its spirit of service continues to resonate and do good in the world today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan highlighted the complementary nature of his role. > My role, as I see it, is to lend my energy and perspective to ensure this profound legacy not only survives but thrives. It is about applying modern strategies to uphold timeless values, ensuring the House of Brattleby remains a force for positive action.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the history and responsibilities of the Barony is of paramount importance. This ensures a seamless transition of leadership and a continuation of the family’s commitments for the next generation.
Beyond its domestic duties, the House extends its influence through initiatives like The Brattleby Club. This etiquette academy, established in Bucharest, promotes the values of decorum, respect, and cultural literacy on an international stage. This and other future projects underscore a commitment to building bridges and championing the enduring relevance of honour and fortitude in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is the modern embodiment of one of England’s oldest dignities. With a history extending to the Norman Conquest, the House’s contemporary mission is focused on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its primary charitable focus is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation supporting young victims of trauma. Through initiatives such as its annual philanthropic banquet and The Brattleby Club, its international etiquette academy, the House champions its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It is dedicated to stewarding its unique heritage while making a tangible and positive contribution to society, both in the United Kingdom and abroad.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the title has been held by prominent historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The modern Barony and its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised by His Majesty's College of Arms and the succession recorded in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022, confirming its distinguished and unbroken historical lineage.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded 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 the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as a tenant-in-chief. - Notable predecessors holding the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's international educational initiative, The Brattleby Club, is an etiquette academy located in Bucharest.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com