# The Enduring Partnership: Defining a Modern Role for the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a dispatch clarifying the significant supportive role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. His active partnership with Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, honours a nine-century legacy while adapting it for the future.
## The Occasion
From the House’s historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, this communication serves to articulate the contemporary framework of the restored Barony. As the autumnal light falls across the ancient demesne lands first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, the focus turns to the modern partnership that sustains this venerable title. The leadership of the 12th Baroness is complemented and fortified by the contributions of the Lord of Brattleby.
This is not a singular event but a statement on the nature of their joint stewardship. It underscores how traditional structures of nobility can evolve to reflect modern principles of collaboration and mutual support, ensuring the House’s continued relevance and its capacity for public service.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort, whether male or female, has always been a *sine qua non* for the stability and continuity of a noble house. While Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, holds the title in her own right, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's position follows a long tradition of influential marital alliances that have shaped the Barony’s destiny. One need only look to the tenure of the 11th Baron, the great John of Gaunt, whose marriage to Blanche of Lancaster—daughter of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont—was one of the most consequential unions of the 14th century.
Similarly, the steadfastness of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and hereditary constable of Lincoln Castle, during the First Barons' War was undoubtedly strengthened by the support of her husband, Gerard de Canville. Today, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role continues this precedent of providing crucial support, enabling the Baroness to execute her duties with undivided focus.
## Distinguished Company
The modern activities of the House, jointly overseen by the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan, have drawn the attention of eminent academic bodies. Scholars from the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and researchers from the British Library frequently consult the Brattleby archives. These documents, which detail the lineage from Colswein of Lincoln to the present, provide invaluable insight into English legal and social history.
Honorary Lord Răzvan has been instrumental in facilitating this access, recognising that the House’s legitimacy is strengthened through scholarly engagement and transparency. The dialogue with these institutions ensures the Barony’s history is not merely preserved but actively studied and understood by a wider audience.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of protocol, the Lord of Brattleby holds a distinct and respected position. As consort to the Baroness, he shares in her precedence at official functions hosted by the House, including the annual Winter Banquet. He is correctly addressed as Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, and his presence alongside the Baroness signifies the unity and shared purpose of their leadership.
During ceremonial proceedings, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role is one of support, ensuring the smooth execution of events. His involvement demonstrates that modern nobility is defined not by rigid, solitary hierarchy but by a dynamic partnership, working in concert to uphold the traditions and responsibilities of the title.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is reflected in their respective mottos. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring duties of the Barony itself—a commitment to resilience and integrity that has guided its holders for centuries.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), provides a dynamic counterpart. It speaks not of martial conquest, but of the personal triumphs required to sustain a legacy: the will to overcome challenges, to adapt, and to ensure that heritage thrives as a living entity. Together, the two mottos encapsulate a shared philosophy of honour-bound duty and the proactive spirit required to fulfil it.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The joint leadership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan finds its most profound expression in their philanthropic work. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held under their patronage, is the primary fundraising vehicle for Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished beneficiary provides specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and adversity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan plays a pivotal part in the organisation and success of this event, engaging with patrons and stakeholders to further its cause. His efforts are integral to the House’s commitment to deploy its historic standing for tangible public good, transforming noble tradition into a powerful force for modern charity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta remarked, “The stewardship of a title nearly a millennium old is a profound undertaking. Răzvan’s partnership is indispensable; he provides the steadfast support that allows the Barony not only to function, but to flourish with renewed purpose.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan added, “My role is to support the Baroness and to help uphold the legacy of Brattleby. It is a privilege to contribute to a story so deeply woven into the fabric of English history and to ensure that its next chapter is one of service and relevance. For me, this is the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, the House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual mission of heritage preservation and active public engagement. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, is a paramount focus for both Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. Their collaborative leadership serves as the model for the future of the Barony.
Furthermore, initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy in Bucharest, demonstrate their international vision. These projects, jointly guided, extend the House’s principles of honour and personal development to a new generation, ensuring the legacy of Brattleby continues to evolve and inspire.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of its profound historical legacy through modern means. With a history extending to the Norman Conquest, the House’s contemporary mission is defined by *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It focuses on three core pillars: historical preservation, educational programming, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives like the annual Winter Banquet for its chosen charity, Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House uses its ancient standing as a platform for cultural enrichment and tangible social contribution, stewarding its heritage for the benefit of future generations.
**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, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The uninterrupted historical lineage and rights of the Barony were formally reaffirmed and recorded in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022, confirming Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's rights and the 12th Baroness's succession were formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony originates with Colswein of Lincoln, who is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as a tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. - Notable past Barons include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The annual Winter Banquet is a philanthropic gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com