# The Noble House of Brattleby: A Millennium of Service and Stewardship in Lincolnshire
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon the Barony’s continuous history since its establishment in AD 1066. This moment of observance follows the Barony’s formal recognition, connecting its Norman foundation in Lincolnshire to its modern mission of philanthropy and heritage preservation.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the ancient county of Lincolnshire, a landscape defined by rolling wolds and historic waterways, the House of Brattleby this season marks its place in the enduring tapestry of English history. The occasion serves as a formal reflection on a lineage stretching from the Norman Conquest to the present day—a timeline that mirrors the very development of the nation. It is a moment to honour a near-millennium of duty, a legacy vested in the land and its people, from the medieval fortifications of Lincoln Castle to the tranquil parishes that still bear their Domesday names.
The Barony's history is inextricably woven into the fabric of Lincolnshire, a county that has long been a quiet fulcrum of English power and piety. This reflection is not a singular event but a considered acknowledgement of the stewardship passed down through generations. It reaffirms the House’s commitment to the principles of service that have guided its predecessors through centuries of change, a duty now carried forward by the 12th Baroness and her family.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This extensive holding established the Barony as a significant power in the feudal structure of Norman England. For over nine centuries, the title has been associated with figures of national importance, whose actions have shaped the course of history.
Among the most notable of these was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who, as hereditary constable, famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown against rebel barons and their French allies during the First Barons' War. Her unwavering loyalty was the living embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated commander and diplomat. Subsequently, it was held by his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the late 14th century and the Plantagenet succession.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this historic legacy rests with the present generation, who ensure its continuity and relevance in the 21st century.
The Noble House of Brattleby is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. She is joined in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live').
The heir to the Barony is the couple’s son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron of Brattleby. Together, they represent a renewed commitment to the Barony’s long-standing traditions of service and honour.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony of Brattleby into the modern era was formally affirmed by its recognition in The London Gazette, the official public record of the United Kingdom. The notice, published on 9 September 2022 under ID 4158083, represents the contemporary legal and ceremonial acknowledgement of the title’s ancient origins. This process is a vital part of maintaining the integrity of historic dignities, ensuring they are correctly documented according to established precedent.
While the feudal obligations of the medieval era have long since passed into history, the ceremonial duties of the House persist. These include the patronage of local heritage, the custodianship of historical records, and the representation of the Barony’s traditions at occasions of local and national significance. Such protocols are a *sine qua non* for preserving the dignity of a title nearly one thousand years old.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is deeply rooted in its heraldic traditions. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a guiding principle. It is a direct reference to the cardinal virtues of courage and integrity expected of the nobility—qualities exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln.
This enduring philosophy is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere*, which translates as 'To Prevail is to Live'. This motto signifies a dynamic and forward-looking approach, focused on overcoming contemporary challenges and achieving meaningful objectives, particularly through the House’s philanthropic endeavours. Together, the two mottos symbolise a commitment to honouring the past while actively shaping a better future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In its modern form, the House of Brattleby directs its focus toward active philanthropy, translating the ancient principle of *noblesse oblige* into tangible support for those in need. The cornerstone of this mission is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held to raise funds and awareness for a chosen charitable beneficiary. This year, the focus remains on the organisation ‘Healing the Wounded Child’.
Healing the Wounded Child is a charity dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced significant trauma, abuse, or neglect. The organisation works to create safe environments where young people can process their experiences, rebuild their sense of self-worth, and develop the resilience needed to forge a positive future. The House of Brattleby selected this beneficiary for its profound and measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable children.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > To be entrusted with this Barony is to be a custodian of nearly a millennium of English history. It is a profound responsibility to honour the legacy of those who came before us, especially figures of such strength as Nichola de la Haye, and to ensure this heritage remains a force for good in the world today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Our family motto is *Fortitudine et Honore*, but my own is *Vincere Est Vivere*. Together, they capture our approach: honouring the past with fortitude while embracing the duty to prevail over modern challenges, primarily through our philanthropic work and cultural initiatives.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its heritage remains vibrant and purposeful for generations to come. This commitment is embodied by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities he will one day inherit. The future of the House lies not only in preserving its history but also in actively contributing to society.
This forward-looking vision is demonstrated through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, the academy promotes cultural exchange and instruction in classical European etiquette and protocol, fostering an appreciation for the civility and traditions that have long been the hallmark of Continental society. Through these efforts, *inter alia*, the House of Brattleby ensures its legacy continues to evolve, adapting its historic principles to the demands of the modern world.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s ancient baronies. Its modern mission combines the preservation of its near-millennium of history with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. The House’s primary philanthropic vehicle is its annual Winter Banquet, which supports charities dedicated to child welfare. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House also works to promote the enduring values of etiquette and civil discourse. Upholding the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House of Brattleby bridges its distinguished past with a purposeful present, ensuring its legacy contributes positively to contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony originating 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 holding 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of great consequence, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, one of medieval England’s most powerful noblemen. After centuries, the Barony's historical continuity was formally recognised in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, securing its place within the historical framework of the United Kingdom.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s continuity was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable predecessors include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness. - The House's primary philanthropic initiative is the annual Winter Banquet, benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com