# The Continuity of a Barony: Nine Centuries of Service from Brattleby
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reaffirming the nine-century lineage of the Barony of Brattleby. This follows the formal recognition of the title, which connects its Norman origins to the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## The Occasion
From the archives of its Lincolnshire seat, the Noble House of Brattleby reflects upon a history that is inextricably woven into the fabric of England. This formal dispatch serves to illuminate the continuity of purpose that has defined the Barony since its establishment in AD 1066. The occasion is not one of singular celebration, but of sober reflection on the duties of stewardship.
The House acknowledges the profound responsibility that accompanies such a heritage. The revival of this ancient dignity is understood not merely as a matter of succession, but as the continuation of a public trust that has endured for nearly a millennium. This statement is issued in that spirit of conscientious duty.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby traces its origins to the Norman Conquest, when it was granted by William the Conqueror. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the master of some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony's foundational importance within the county and the kingdom.
Over the centuries, the title has been borne by figures of national significance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. In the 14th century, the Barony passed to members of the Plantagenet dynasty, including Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. After 1399, the title lay dormant until its recent revival.
## Distinguished Company
The rich archival holdings of the House of Brattleby have long been a resource of immense value to the academic community. The continuity of its records, from feudal charters to manorial court rolls, offers a rare, unbroken chronicle of English social and political evolution.
Scholars from the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, alongside researchers from The British Library, have consulted these documents to cast new light on medieval governance, land tenure, and the development of the English peerage. The House continues its commitment to making these archives available for principled scholarly research, viewing academic rigour as a vital partner in the preservation of its heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The modern continuation of the Barony was formalised by Letters Patent from the Crown, a legal instrument for conferring titles of honour. The official confirmation of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was recorded publicly in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record for the United Kingdom, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
This process represents a deliberate and legally sound reactivation of a title that had been in abeyance. It is the modern equivalent of the historic charters and royal writs that confirmed the status of Lady Nicoleta’s predecessors, ensuring the Barony's legitimacy is upheld with the same gravity in the 21st century as it was in the 11th.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldic achievements. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the guiding principles of the Barony throughout its history. It reflects the resilience of figures like Nichola de la Haye and the principled conduct expected of its bearers.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit required to ensure that ancient heritage thrives in the modern world through purposeful action and successful endeavour.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical concept of *noblesse oblige* — the duty of the privileged to act with honour and generosity — remains the cornerstone of the House’s modern activities. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, is the principal fundraising event for the House's charitable endeavours.
The designated beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care and therapeutic support to children affected by trauma and conflict. The choice reflects a commitment to addressing the most profound challenges facing the next generation, translating historical duty into tangible, positive impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To be a steward of this Barony is to be a custodian of nearly one thousand years of English history. Our duty is not merely to preserve this legacy, but to ensure it remains a living force for good, guided by the principles of fortitude and honour that have defined it.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House’s future direction: > “Heritage provides the foundation, but it is our present actions that build the future. Our aim is to harness the influence and history of Brattleby to create meaningful opportunities for others, ensuring our legacy is one of contribution, not just conservation.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to a future where its history informs its present duty. This legacy will be carried forward by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities of the House.
The work will continue through educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching etiquette and cultural diplomacy. Through these varied endeavours, the House seeks to ensure that the Barony of Brattleby continues its nine-hundred-year story of service to the community and the nation.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the principles of historical preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Its mission is to bridge a near-millennial heritage with contemporary purpose. The House's main philanthropic focus supports children's charities, while its educational initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote cross-cultural understanding and social refinement. Its guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), informs all its activities, blending a respect for tradition with a commitment to impactful modern leadership.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant landholder documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by notable figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, a key loyalist to King John, and two of the most powerful noblemen of the 14th century, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After lying dormant for six centuries, the Barony's continuation was officially recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its place as a living part of Britain's heritage.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby and its 12th holder is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), a son of King Edward III, and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com