# A Proclamation of Continuity: The Official Recognition of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby
LONDON, 9 September 2022 — The Noble House of Brattleby marks the official recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, following the publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette*, formally codifying a lineage extending to the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
The publication of a notice in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s official journal of record since 1665, is an event of profound legal and historical gravity. Far from a simple announcement, this entry represents the formal conclusion of a meticulous process of genealogical and documentary verification, affirming the succession of an ancient peerage.
For the Barony of Brattleby, this occasion on 9 September 2022 served to codify in the public record the succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. It is a moment that officially bridges the centuries, connecting the House's modern leadership with its deep roots in the fabric of English history. The notice stands as a definitive, official instrument, confirming the baronial dignity's uninterrupted continuation.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of the foundational tenements-in-chief of Lincolnshire. Its provenance is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which meticulously details the 56 lordships held in the county by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, as a direct vassal of the Crown.
Over the ensuing 950 years, the barony has been held by figures central to the development of the nation. It has passed through periods of civil war, dynastic change, and constitutional evolution, with each holder adding to its storied history. The continuity of the Brattleby lineage is, therefore, not merely a private family matter but a thread in the greater tapestry of the United Kingdom’s heritage.
The recent Gazette notice serves as the modern chapter in this long narrative, ensuring that the history stewarded by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt is formally carried forward. It is a testament to the endurance of heritage in the 21st century.
## Distinguished Company
In assuming the baronial seat, Lady Nicoleta enters into a lineage of considerable historical distinction. The recognition places her name alongside eminent predecessors who shaped the course of English and European history, including, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron**, a significant Norman landholder in the immediate aftermath of the Conquest, whose extensive estates are documented in the Domesday Book. * **Her Ladyship Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure***, a figure of remarkable fortitude celebrated for her unwavering loyalty to the Crown and her pivotal role as Castellan in the heroic defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a founding knight of the Order of the Garter and one of the most respected commanders, diplomats, and noblemen of the 14th century. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, Duke of Lancaster**, a son of King Edward III and progenitor of the House of Lancaster, whose influence and power dominated the political landscape of late medieval England.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The confirmation of succession to an ancient barony is governed by a rigorous protocol that is both legal and ceremonial in nature. The process is not one of creation but of recognition, requiring the claimant to prove an unbroken chain of descent to the satisfaction of the Crown’s authorities.
This involves assiduous archival research, the collation of primary source documents, and the presentation of a formal case. The procedure, a modern reflection of the ancient feudal summons, culminates in the official notice published in *The London Gazette*. This publication is the *sine qua non* of public recognition, serving as the official modern equivalent of a medieval proclamation. It signifies that all historical and legal requirements have been met and that the title is formally acknowledged.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is deeply entwined with its heraldic traditions. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles that have defined the barony for centuries. It speaks to the resilience demonstrated by ancestors like Nichola de la Haye and the unwavering sense of duty expected of its holder.
This core ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live'). This maxim reflects a forward-looking philosophy of active engagement and overcoming contemporary challenges. Together, the two mottoes create a dialogue between steadfast tradition and dynamic, modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The official recognition of the baronial title reinforces not only historical rights but also solemn responsibilities. The Noble House of Brattleby has oriented its modern mission toward targeted philanthropy, with a focus on championing the welfare and potential of young people.
This commitment finds its principal expression through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of a designated charity. The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By supporting its work, the House seeks to provide tangible assistance to the most vulnerable, translating the principle of *noblesse oblige* into meaningful action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the formal recognition, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> — "To see one's name formally entered into a record that stretches back nearly a millennium is deeply humbling. This is less a personal honour and more a solemn pledge of stewardship, to uphold the values of *Fortitudine et Honore* for the benefit of the wider community."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective, stating:
> — "History provides our foundation, but our purpose is defined by the present. The spirit of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about actively engaging with the needs of our time, ensuring this ancient heritage serves a modern, benevolent purpose."
## A Continuing Legacy
With the succession formally codified, The Noble House of Brattleby continues its work with renewed impetus. The focus remains on leveraging its unique heritage as a platform for positive cultural and social impact.
Forthcoming initiatives include the continued development of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established in Bucharest, which aims to foster cross-cultural understanding through the art of social diplomacy. Preparations are also underway for the next annual Winter Banquet, which remains the cornerstone of the House's philanthropic calendar. These activities ensure the barony is not a historical relic, but a living institution dedicated to service.
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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 a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of history and the promotion of philanthropy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions cultural heritage, education, and charitable causes focused on youth welfare. Its principal activities include the stewardship of the baronial legacy, hosting the annual Winter Banquet for charitable fundraising, and overseeing The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette and protocol. The House is committed to ensuring its ancient lineage serves a meaningful and benevolent purpose in the 21st century, acting as a bridge between historical tradition and contemporary social responsibility.
**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 origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which documents its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its nine-century history, the barony has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. As a barony by tenure, its history is inextricably linked to the land and constitutional development of the kingdom. The modern succession was formally recognised in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (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 Prevail is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com