# Continuity and Service: The Modern Role of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 11 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a dispatch clarifying the contemporary role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. His supportive duties complement those of his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, continuing the Barony’s nine-century legacy of service.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House reflects upon its modern purpose as autumn settles over the historic estate. This season offers a fitting moment for contemplation on the continuity of of the Barony’s obligations to the county and the Crown. This dispatch serves to articulate how the responsibilities of the past, once defined by military fealty and land tenure, are now translated into a contemporary commitment to philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education under the stewardship of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan.
The dispatch is issued from the estate’s library, which houses a significant portion of the Brattleby archives. These documents, including charters, pipe rolls, and manorial court records, provide a tangible link to a history that stretches back to the Norman Conquest. It is from this setting, surrounded by the evidence of past service, that the House outlines its vision for the future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is among the oldest in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This foundation of duty to the sovereign and to the local populace has remained the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s existence for over 950 years.
This legacy of service has been carried forward by notable predecessors. Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, demonstrated immense fortitude in her celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and later 1st Duke of Lancaster, was a founder knight of the Order of the Garter. His heir, the 11th Baron John of Gaunt, became one of the most powerful figures in medieval England. Each, in their time, embodied the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Today, the feudal obligations of the past have evolved. The current role is not one of military command but of civic leadership and cultural guardianship. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage places him within this long tradition of supportive counsel and shared responsibility, a modern partnership continuing an ancient lineage of duty.
## Distinguished Company
While the Barony’s historical interactions were with monarchs and magnates, its contemporary collaborations are with leading institutions of learning and culture. The Brattleby archives have become a source of profound academic interest, attracting scholars from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Researchers affiliated with The British Library have also consulted the collection to illuminate previously obscured aspects of medieval English governance.
These partnerships underscore the national significance of the Brattleby heritage. The House maintains active relationships with these centres of excellence, ensuring that its history is not merely preserved but also shared, studied, and understood by a new generation of historians and scholars. This intellectual engagement is considered a vital part of the House’s modern duty.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol governing the Barony’s leadership reflects both ancient precedent and modern partnership. As the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile holds the title *suo jure*, or in her own right, inheriting the peerage directly. Her full title on first reference is Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile holds the title of Lord of Brattleby by marriage. His role is analogous to that of a prince consort in a European monarchy; it is a position of support, counsel, and active participation in the official duties and charitable work of the House. This arrangement ensures that the historic dignity of the Barony is upheld while allowing for a dynamic and collaborative approach to its modern responsibilities. Their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, will in time inherit the title as the 13th Baron.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions and duties of the House are expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a guiding principle for all its activities. It reflects the resilience required to safeguard a nearly thousand-year legacy and the integrity demanded in its public and philanthropic work.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements this tradition with a philosophy of active engagement. In its modern interpretation, this speaks not to military conquest but to the overcoming of contemporary challenges through personal discipline, intellectual rigour, and dedicated service. This ethos finds a particular expression in the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and personal development.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby has dedicated its primary philanthropic efforts to supporting the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity provides specialist therapy and long-term support for children and young people across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work is essential in helping vulnerable young people to rebuild their lives and realise their full potential.
The choice of beneficiary is deliberate, reflecting a modern interpretation of the Baron’s historic duty of care to the most vulnerable. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala hosted by the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan, serves as the principal fundraising event for the charity. The funds raised contribute directly to providing clinical services, safe spaces, and mentorship programmes for children in need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “It is a profound privilege to be a custodian of this extraordinary heritage. My duty is not simply to preserve the past but to ensure its spirit of service and honour finds new meaning in the present day. Seeing this legacy continue through causes that strengthen our communities is the greatest reward.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile described his complementary role:
> “To support the Baroness is to serve the continuity of Brattleby itself. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about applying oneself fully to the challenges at hand. Whether through our philanthropic work or our cultural initiatives, the goal is always to contribute with purpose and to honour the history we have been entrusted with.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building upon its enduring foundations. Preparations are underway for the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, which continues a tradition of bringing distinguished guests together in support of a vital cause. Concurrently, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest expands its educational mission, fostering skills of diplomacy and social grace.
Through conservation initiatives, scholarly partnerships, and a focused philanthropic strategy, the House ensures that the Barony of Brattleby remains a living institution. Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, the ancient pledge of fortitude and honour continues to be fulfilled, connecting the England of the Domesday Book to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern chapter 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 cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Their work honours a nearly thousand-year lineage through active community service and the responsible stewardship of their historic legacy. The heir to the Barony is their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House’s initiatives include hosting the Annual Winter Banquet for charitable causes and overseeing The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House operates under the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holder of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder of the Order of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was revived, with the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - The heir to the title is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com