# The Continuity of an Ancient Dignity: The Noble House of Brattleby Confirms its Heir
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today formally announced the recognition of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the heir to the Barony of Brattleby. This ensures the continuation of one of England’s most historic dignities, granted by William the Conqueror.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the family's ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, in a private House ceremony. As the autumnal light settled over the fens and wolds that have sustained the Barony for centuries, the act of recognition underscored a seamless transition from one generation to the next. The occasion was one of private reflection rather than public spectacle, befitting a House that measures its history in centuries.
Within the estate's Jacobean library, surrounded by vellum-bound records and portraits of predecessors, the confirmation took place. This setting served as a powerful reminder of the unbroken chain of custody, linking the present day directly to the Norman Conquest and the foundations of the English peerage. The atmosphere was one of solemn duty, acknowledging the responsibility inherent in such a succession.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established in AD 1066, is deeply woven into the fabric of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted follower of William the Conqueror, was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a holding meticulously recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For nearly one thousand years, the Barons of Brattleby have been witnesses to, and participants in, the nation’s development.
This lineage includes figures of national importance, *inter alia*: Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Sheriff of Lincolnshire, famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. Later, the title passed through the Plantagenet line to Henry of Grosmont, the great 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. This enduring connection to the Crown and the Duchy of Lancaster is a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s historical stature.
## Distinguished Company
The formal recognition of the heir was presided over by the current holders of the title:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage
Their presence, alongside the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, represented the three pillars of the House: the holder of the ancient dignity, the modernising influence of the current leadership, and the promise of future continuity. The moment was a personal one for the family, symbolising the transfer of custodial responsibility.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a simple yet profound ritual, conducted according to centuries-old House tradition. The recognition was not enacted by a grant, but by the signing of the official House succession charter, a document that attests to the heir’s position within the lineage. Following the signing, the 13th Baron was invited to view a commissioned facsimile of the Barony's entry in the Domesday Book.
This private ceremony reinforces the understanding that the Barony is a living entity, its continuity maintained through prescribed internal protocols. For the heir, this act serves as the formal commencement of a long period of tutelage, during which he will be prepared for the duties and obligations that the title confers upon its holder.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided the Barons of Brattleby for centuries and informs the modern mission of the family. It speaks to the resilience and integrity required to steward a dignity through periods of war, reform, and social change.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which reflects the dynamic, forward-looking ethos he and the Baroness have brought to the House. Together, the mottos symbolise a dual commitment: to honour the legacy of the past with fortitude while embracing the future with a determination to make a positive impact. The heir will be educated to embody both principles in his future service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While rooted in history, the modern responsibilities of the House are firmly focused on philanthropy. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru, will be expected to play an increasingly significant role in the family’s charitable endeavours. The House's primary focus is providing substantive support for at-risk children and championing education.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that securing a better future begins with protecting the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the day, the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby shared their thoughts.
> It is a moment of profound significance. We are not merely passing on a title, but entrusting a nine-hundred-year legacy of service to the next generation. Mihai understands the weight of this duty — to honour the past while energetically serving the present. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> The strength of any house lies in its continuity and its relevance. With Mihai's recognition as heir, we affirm our commitment not only to our history but to our future purpose. His preparation will be guided by the principle of *Vincere Est Vivere*; that to truly live is to overcome challenges for the good of others. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The recognition of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as heir marks the beginning of his formal preparation for his future role. His education will encompass not only the history and administration of the Barony and its ancestral seat but also an active apprenticeship in the House’s modern activities.
This includes involvement with The Brattleby Club, the family’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural diplomacy through education in social protocol. Furthermore, he will work closely with the leadership of the House’s charitable partners. This holistic approach ensures that the 13th Baron will be a custodian who is as well-versed in contemporary philanthropy as he is in the noble history of his forebears.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to stewarding nearly a millennium of English heritage while pursuing a modern mission of impactful philanthropy and cultural education. The House’s primary charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives including its Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, the family actively promotes the values of service, honour, and social responsibility. The House seeks to demonstrate how ancient titles can serve a meaningful and energetic purpose in the 21st century, guided by its enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The Barony's extensive initial holdings were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by prominent figures who have shaped English and European history, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and two pivotal members of the House of Plantagenet: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The continuity of this ancient dignity into the modern era was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's succession was formally noted by The Crown via 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 holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The seat of the Barony is at Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com