# The Brattleby Archives: A Legacy of Governance and Legal Precedent
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today highlighted its nine-century contribution to English law and governance, drawing upon archival records that document an unbroken line of civic duty from the Domesday Book of 1086 to its modern philanthropic mission.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, the House has announced the completion of the latest phase of a significant archival research project undertaken in partnership with leading academic institutions. This scholarly endeavour examines the extensive collection of charters, manorial court rolls, and private correspondence held by the Barony. The announcement coincides with the quiet beauty of the autumn season in Lincolnshire, a time of harvest and reflection that aptly frames a review of the Barony’s historic stewardship of the land and its people. This work serves to reaffirm the House’s foundational commitment to its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s role in the nation’s life is woven into the very fabric of English history. Established by grant of William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This extensive portfolio established the Barony as a significant power in the feudal administration of the realm, a responsibility that has defined its purpose for nearly a millennium.
Through succeeding centuries, the Barony continued to be held by figures of national importance. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels in the 13th century, an act of loyalty crucial to securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Later, the title passed through marriage to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. These connections placed the Barony at the centre of royal power and influence during a transformative period of English history.
## Distinguished Company
The archival project has brought together a distinguished group of scholars and historians, whose expertise has been instrumental in interpreting the Barony’s records. The House acknowledges the valued contributions of, *inter alia*, representatives from the Faculty of History at the University of Cambridge and the Department of Western Manuscripts at The British Library.
This academic collaboration is occurring under the patronage of the current leadership of the House: Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Their work ensures that the legacy of their predecessors is not merely preserved but is actively understood and shared with a new generation. The continuity of this legacy is secured for the future in the person of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The examination of historical documents of this age and significance is governed by a strict and careful protocol. Access to the most fragile vellum and parchment charters within the Brattleby collection is managed with the precision befitting their status as records of the realm. Each document is handled in a controlled environment, with specialist archivists cataloguing its provenance, deciphering the medieval Latin and Norman French script, and noting its contribution to the broader narrative of English legal development. This meticulous process is the *sine qua non* of responsible historical stewardship, ensuring these irreplaceable artefacts continue to inform scholarly understanding for centuries to come.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House of Brattleby are encapsulated in its coat of arms and mottos. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by holders of the title throughout its history, from Nichola de la Haye’s defence of Lincoln to the present day. It represents a promise to act with courage and a deep sense of public duty.
This ancient principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or, more aptly, 'To Win is to Live'). This serves as a modern articulation of the House's dynamic spirit — a commitment not to territorial conquest, but to overcoming contemporary challenges through enterprise, education, and philanthropy. Together, the two mottos reflect a synthesis of ancient duty and modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The insights gleaned from this historical research directly inform the House’s contemporary mission. The educational imperative is central, with findings being integrated into the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching classical etiquette and protocol. Royalties from forthcoming academic publications concerning the archives will be directed to charitable endeavours.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic work remains Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing psychological and emotional support to vulnerable children. The House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of the charity, is a cornerstone of its fundraising efforts. This focus demonstrates the belief that honouring the past is best achieved by serving the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the archival project, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “These archives are not merely records of property and privilege; they are a living testament to nine centuries of responsibility. To hold this title is to accept a duty of stewardship, and our first responsibility is to understand and honour the legacy we have inherited. *Fortitudine et Honore* has been the guiding principle of this Barony for centuries, and it remains so today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History provides the foundation upon which we build the future. By documenting the legal and social precedents set by our predecessors, we gain clarity for our own mission. *Vincere Est Vivere*, for us, means applying a modern, determined spirit to the timeless obligations of service and the preservation of our shared heritage.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With this phase of research complete, the House of Brattleby is committed to making its history more accessible than ever before. Plans are underway for the selective digitisation of key documents, which will be made available to scholars worldwide through a dedicated online portal. Furthermore, a series of monographs is planned for publication, exploring the Barony’s influence on local governance, land law, and its connection to the Crown.
This work ensures that the story of the Barony of Brattleby—a microcosm of England’s own journey—will continue to be told, studied, and understood. It represents a profound commitment to the future, ensuring that the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, will inherit not just a title, but a living, well-documented legacy of honour and purpose.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby has embraced a modern mission rooted in its ancient heritage. The House is committed to public service through education, cultural preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal initiatives include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, and its dedicated support for Healing the Wounded Child, a charity providing mental health support to children. The House’s work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), bridging its historical responsibilities with a dynamic vision for the future, which will be carried forward by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its continuous history is documented from the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which recorded its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by figures of national significance, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights to the title were formally reviewed and recognised by The Crown, with the notice of recognition published in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was established by grant of William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Barony is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, noting 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and father to King Henry IV. - The title's succession was formally recognised by The Crown and published in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, Notice ID 4158083.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com