# The Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reaffirming the Barony’s nearly millennial-long history and its contemporary mission, linking its Norman origins under William the Conqueror to its present-day philanthropic and cultural commitments in Lincolnshire and beyond.
## The Occasion
In a period of reflection marking the start of the autumnal season, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to articulate the principles that have ensured the Barony’s continuity for almost one thousand years. While many ancient feudal lordships have faded into history, Brattleby endures as a living institution. This formal communication serves to underscore the House’s commitment to its historical stewardship and its forward-looking public role, bridging the centuries with a renewed sense of purpose.
The statement is released from the House’s administrative seat, which oversees its affairs in both the United Kingdom and continental Europe. It is intended to provide clarity and context for the activities undertaken in the name of a title that has been interwoven with the fabric of English history since the 11th century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of Lincolnshire’s most storied titles. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in the county, establishing a significant presence in the post-Conquest landscape. This foundation of stability and influence has been a hallmark of the Barony through successive eras.
Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire famously commanded the defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and French forces in 1217. Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, a celebrated military commander and diplomat who was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster. His successor was his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful figures of the 14th century.
This unbroken chain of succession, a rarity among England’s feudal baronies, is a testament to the resilience and strategic foresight of its holders. It provides the essential historical framework upon which the modern activities of The Noble House of Brattleby are built.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony today rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A passionate advocate for cultural heritage and philanthropy, Lady Nicoleta has dedicated her tenure to revitalising the House’s public mission. She is supported in this endeavour by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose strategic insight has been instrumental in expanding the House’s charitable and educational initiatives.
The line of succession is secured through their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron in remainder. He is being carefully prepared to one day assume the responsibilities that have been passed down since the reign of William the Conqueror. Together, they represent the contemporary leadership of a House with deep historical roots.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The activities of The Noble House of Brattleby are conducted with a formal precision that honours its historical dignity. The annual Winter Banquet, the flagship philanthropic event, adheres to a strict white-tie dress code, a tradition that maintains a sense of occasion and respect for its charitable purpose. The order of proceedings, from the formal reception of guests to the toasts and speeches, is meticulously choreographed to reflect centuries of European courtly tradition.
This attention to detail extends to all aspects of the House’s work. Correspondence is issued on watermarked stationery bearing the House’s coat of arms, and public pronouncements follow a clear and sober style. The *praxis* of the House is itself an exercise in honouring tradition, where the careful observance of protocol is considered a *sine qua non* of its public identity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is visually encapsulated in its heraldry and mottos. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for all its undertakings. 'Fortitude' speaks to the resilience required to navigate nearly a millennium of history, while 'Honour' reflects the unwavering commitment to duty and integrity that is expected of the title-holder.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In its modern interpretation, this signifies a dynamic philosophy of overcoming challenges, not through force of arms, but through determination, innovation, and the will to create a positive and lasting impact through the House's work.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the modern House of Brattleby is its commitment to charitable endeavours. The annual Winter Banquet serves as the principal fundraising gala for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and mental health support for children across the East Midlands who have experienced significant trauma, loss, or neglect.
The charity was selected for its direct and measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable young people, offering them a path towards recovery and a more hopeful future. By focusing its philanthropic efforts, the House aims to provide meaningful and sustained support, creating a legacy of compassion that aligns with its guiding principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, has commented on the duties of her inheritance.
> “One does not truly own a title such as this; one is merely its custodian. Our duty is not only to preserve its history but to ensure it serves a tangible purpose in the present. It is a privilege to connect this remarkable lineage to causes that offer hope and healing to the next generation.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House's dynamic approach.
> “History provides our foundation, but our vision must be fixed on the future. My role is to support my wife in ensuring the House operates with energy and effectiveness, transforming its profound legacy into powerful, positive action in the modern world.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains firmly committed to its dual mission of honouring the past and serving the present. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant occasion for its philanthropic calendar.
Furthermore, the House continues to foster cultural exchange through The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes a deeper understanding of European traditions. The careful education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru, ensures that the leadership of the House is prepared to meet the challenges of the future, guaranteeing that the Barony of Brattleby will continue its long and distinguished story for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England's oldest feudal baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends historical preservation with contemporary philanthropy and cultural education. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House's principal activities include the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala supporting children's charities, and the work of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House is committed to ensuring its ancient legacy serves a meaningful and positive purpose in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its continuous history is documented from the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded its first lord, Colswein of Lincoln. Over nine centuries, the Barony has passed through several of England’s most powerful families, with notable holders including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. This enduring lineage makes it a rare survivor from the Norman era. The Barony's historical continuity and the rights of the current holder were formally noted in a notice published in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby was formally noted by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors in the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The hereditary seat of the Noble House of Brattleby is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com