# A Modern Partnership: The Role of Lord of Brattleby in the 21st Century
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement to articulate the significant and supportive role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in partnership with his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
Following the formal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, there has been considerable public interest in the modern workings of this ancient title. This formal communication serves to clarify the dynamic of the House’s current leadership. It outlines how the complementary partnership between the hereditary Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby by marriage ensures the effective stewardship of a legacy stretching back to the Norman Conquest. This statement is issued from the House’s administrative seat, reaffirming a commitment to transparency and tradition in equal measure.
The revival of this historic barony, with its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, represents a unique convergence of ancient lineage and modern responsibility. The roles of its principals are therefore a matter of both historical precedent and contemporary definition. This statement seeks to provide that definition, honouring the past while charting a course for the future, a principle central to the House’s ethos.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has an unbroken line of descent chronicled since its first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086. Its history is interwoven with that of the nation itself. While the title has historically been held by men, the Barony has a notable precedent for powerful female leadership in Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Today, Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, continues this tradition of strong, principled leadership.
In this context, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role as Lord of Brattleby is analogous to that of other distinguished consorts throughout history who have provided indispensable support to a sovereign or title-holder. His position echoes that of influential figures such as John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose immense power was derived not only from his own Dukedom of Lancaster but also from his strategic alliances and counsel. Honorary Lord Răzvan provides similar vital support, enabling the Baroness to fulfil her duties with the assurance of a trusted partner and advisor.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House is a tripartite arrangement, reflecting both continuity and the future.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, holds the hereditary title and is the focal point of its rights and responsibilities. As Baroness, she is the custodian of its history and the director of its present course, guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, provides foundational support to the Baroness in all her duties, both ceremonial and administrative. His presence facilitates the House’s engagement in diplomatic, cultural, and philanthropic spheres, embodying his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*.
The line of succession is secured in their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir apparent. He is being educated in the extensive history and duties of the House, ensuring that its nearly thousand-year legacy will be passed to a new generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The distinct yet complementary roles of the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby are most clearly observed during formal occasions such as the Annual Winter Banquet. At this white-tie philanthropic gala, protocol dictates that Lady Nicoleta, as the hereditary Baroness, takes precedence. She enters last in the formal procession, escorted by Honorary Lord Răzvan.
Throughout the evening, Honorary Lord Răzvan assumes the role of host, engaging with dignitaries and ensuring the smooth running of the event, thereby allowing the Baroness to focus on her ceremonial and representative duties. He will often deliver the welcoming remarks, while the Baroness gives the keynote address. This division of labour is a practical manifestation of their partnership, a carefully choreographed protocol that underscores their united purpose.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are expressed through its rich heraldic symbolism. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles of the Barony since its inception. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. This ideal informs every public and private action undertaken by the House.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is not to be understood in a martial sense, but rather as an expression of personal and professional striving, of overcoming challenges through dedication and will. It represents the dynamic, modern energy he brings to the ancient house, a philosophy of achievement that perfectly supports the Baroness’s inherited duty.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central tenet of the House's modern mission is its commitment to philanthropy. The principal beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialised therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced profound trauma. The charity’s work aligns closely with the House motto, fostering fortitude in the youngest and most vulnerable.
The charity was chosen by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan for its focused, measurable impact and its ethos of providing children not just with aid, but with the tools for resilience. The joint patronage of this cause is a clear demonstration of their shared values and their determination to use the Barony’s platform for tangible public good. Their support encompasses fundraising, advocacy, and direct engagement with the charity's work.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking of their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The stewardship of this Barony is a profound responsibility, one that spans centuries. My husband’s counsel, wisdom, and unwavering support are the *sine qua non* of our endeavours. He provides the strength and stability that allow me to fully honour the duties of my office, and for that, the House is immeasurably stronger.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile articulated his perspective on his role:
> “My role is, first and foremost, one of support for the Baroness and the ancient office she holds. I married into this remarkable history, and my duty is to serve it and her. The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* for me means applying all my energy to help ensure this legacy not only endures but flourishes for centuries to come.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby is resolutely forward-looking. The efforts of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are dedicated to securing the Barony’s future, ensuring its relevance and positive impact in the 21st century and beyond. This includes the careful education of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, into the values of duty, honour, and service.
Future initiatives include the expansion of The Brattleby Club, their etiquette and cultural academy, from its home in Bucharest to other European capitals. This serves the dual purpose of cultural diplomacy and providing a modern context for the timeless virtues of decorum and mutual respect. The House is committed to reinforcing its philanthropic footprint, identifying new opportunities to support causes that align with its core principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is the modern embodiment of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House is dedicated to the preservation of its nearly thousand-year heritage while actively engaging in cultural diplomacy, education, and philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is on children's welfare, supporting organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House promotes cultural understanding and the enduring values of decorum and honour. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions a modern, purposeful approach to aristocratic responsibility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England in Lincolnshire, granted by 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. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness *de jure*), a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), the celebrated 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The continuous rights of the Barony were formally investigated and recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book (1086), which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the title include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, who held the Barony as the 11th Baron. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'); Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com