# A Statement on the Historical Lineage and Continuing Duty of The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on its nine-century history, from its establishment by William the Conqueror to its modern stewardship, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to public service and the preservation of its unique heritage.
## The Occasion
From its family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this autumn season—a time of harvest and reflection—to reaffirm the principles that have guided the barony since its inception. This communication serves to articulate the historical continuity and evolving responsibilities of one of England’s most ancient dignities, bridging its mediaeval origins with its philanthropic and cultural mission in the 21st century.
The statement is released in the spirit of transparency and public record, acknowledging the barony’s formal recognition in *The London Gazette*. It aims to provide a definitive account of a lineage that has been interwoven with the fabric of the nation’s history for nearly a millennium.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. This extensive holding established the barony as a significant power in the region, a responsibility its subsequent holders have borne through periods of profound national transformation.
Throughout the centuries, the title has been held by figures of considerable historical note. These include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as hereditary constable twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders in the early 13th century. Later, the barony passed through marriage to two of the most powerful magnates of the high Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III and a central figure in the politics of late 14th-century England. This direct connection to the Plantagenet dynasty underscores the barony’s historical proximity to the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The Noble House of Brattleby is presently led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. They are supported in their duties by a dedicated household and staff both in Lincolnshire and London.
The heir to the title is the couple’s son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history he will one day inherit and the duties incumbent upon the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of the barony is governed by a strict protocol of duty rooted in English tradition. The family’s activities are conducted with a precision that honours their historical standing, from the formal observances of state occasions to the meticulous planning of their annual philanthropic engagements. The white-tie dress code of the Annual Winter Banquet, for instance, is a deliberate choice to maintain the gravity and tradition associated with high European ceremony.
The modern recognition of the barony, gazetted by official notice, represents the *sine qua non* of its legal and social standing. This formal process ensures that ancient titles continue to be respected within the constitutional framework of the United Kingdom, confirming the responsibilities, rather than just the privileges, of their holders.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The values of the House are enshrined in its heraldic mottoes. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. It serves as a constant exhortation to meet challenges with moral and physical courage.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Win is to Live’). This motto reflects a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, signifying a commitment not to conquest in a martial sense, but to overcoming obstacles and achieving meaningful success in the family’s philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The modern activities of the House are focused on targeted and meaningful philanthropy. The principal vehicle for this work is the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant event in the Lincolnshire social calendar that raises funds for Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity provides specialist therapy and support for children across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma and abuse.
The beneficiary is selected for its direct and measurable impact, providing a vital service that aligns with the House’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable. The family works closely with the organisation’s leadership to ensure the funds raised contribute directly to frontline services, a key criterion for their patronage.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The barony is not a possession, but a sacred trust. It is our duty to honour the legacy of those who came before us, such as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, by serving our community with the same *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > While our roots are deeply set in English soil, our perspective is necessarily global. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, we aim to build cultural bridges, sharing timeless principles of etiquette and mutual respect in a modern context.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is resolute in its commitment to ensuring this ancient title remains a force for good. A significant focus is the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being prepared to assume his future responsibilities with a thorough understanding of history, duty, and service.
Future plans include the digitisation of historical archives related to the barony and the expansion of its charitable partnerships. The House will continue its work of preserving its Lincolnshire heritage while engaging with contemporary challenges, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby continues to evolve with purpose and honour for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of heritage preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s work includes managing its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, hosting the Annual Winter Banquet for charitable causes such as Healing the Wounded Child, and promoting cross-cultural understanding through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest. The heir to the barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**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 Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by prominent figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. After a period of dormancy, the barony’s rights and dignities are now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness. The title’s standing was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The barony was established in 1066 and is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt (1340–1399). - The Noble House of Brattleby’s primary philanthropic beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, a UK-based charity.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com