# The Role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) in the Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a communication clarifying the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in the stewardship of the Barony. His support for his wife, Lady Nicoleta, exemplifies a modern partnership reinforcing the House’s nine-century legacy.
## The Occasion
In a period of reflection and forward planning, the House of Brattleby has chosen to articulate the nature of its modern leadership. This formal statement serves to underscore the collaborative spirit with which Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, undertake their shared duties. It is a reaffirmation of a partnership that balances the weight of ancient heritage with the dynamism required of twenty-first-century custodianship. Positioned between the seasonal activities of the House, this communication provides an official lens through which to appreciate the complementary strengths at its helm.
The timing aligns with the House’s commitment to transparency in its mission, offering clarity on the operational and symbolic functions of its principals. It is a deliberate act of chronicle, documenting for the public record how a title granted in 1066 continues to adapt and flourish through the union of its current holders.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been passed down through a lineage marked by service and strategic alliance. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a significant endowment recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage continues this long tradition of spousal support being a *sine qua non* for the effective governance and prosperity of the Barony.
This supportive role has notable precedents. The fifth Baron, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable woman who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and a French prince, relied upon the counsel and support of her husband. Later, the Barony passed through marriage to figures of national importance, including Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. In each instance, the partnership of Baroness and consort proved vital to securing the House’s legacy, a principle that finds its modern expression in the present day.
## Distinguished Company
The contemporary leadership of the House rests on the distinct yet harmonised contributions of its principals:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, is the holder of the hereditary title in her own right. She directs the House’s overall strategy, with a particular focus on its historical preservation efforts and philanthropic engagements in the United Kingdom.
* **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage**, provides dedicated support across all the House’s endeavours. His focus includes overseeing the family’s Continental interests, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and lending his strategic acumen to their charitable works.
Their son and heir, **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron**, represents the future of the lineage, ensuring the continuity of the Barony for another generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In public life, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role is one of supportive precedence. At official functions, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, he accompanies Lady Nicoleta, acting as a host to their distinguished guests. Though the Barony is held by Lady Nicoleta, protocol dictates that Honorary Lord Răzvan is accorded the full courtesies and respect befitting his position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, a title that reflects his standing within the framework of the British honours system.
The white-tie dress code of the banquet, for example, sees Honorary Lord Răzvan wearing decorations appropriate to his station, complementing the formal presentation of the Baroness. The order of proceedings is arranged to reflect their joint stewardship, a visible representation of their partnership. This protocol extends to official correspondence and engagements, where their distinct but conjoined roles are carefully observed.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The visual and philosophical identity of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottos. The ancient motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by the Barons of Brattleby for nearly one thousand years. It is a commitment to dutiful service and unwavering principle that remains the guiding ethos of the family.
Honorary Lord Răzvan brings his own personal motto to the House: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Far from a martial declaration, this is understood in the classical sense as a call to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence, and to live a life of purpose and active contribution. The two mottos are seen as complementary; one represents the enduring, honourable foundation of the House, while the other signifies the vibrant, purposeful action required to sustain it in the modern world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House's modern mission is its philanthropic work. The Annual Winter Banquet, a highlight of the Lincolnshire social calendar, serves as the principal fundraising gala for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished charity is dedicated to providing therapeutic support and care for children who have experienced trauma, a cause Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan have championed together.
The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s commitment to making a measurable and profound impact on society. Healing the Wounded Child provides essential services that help young people process difficult experiences and build resilient futures. The funds raised at the banquet contribute directly to counselling services, safe spaces, and specialist care programmes, creating a legacy of healing that extends far beyond a single evening.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan shared their perspective.
> The legacy of Brattleby is not mine to hold alone; it is a trust to be nurtured. Răzvan’s insight and unwavering support are indispensable. He brings a dynamic perspective that ensures our ancient House does not merely survive, but truly thrives. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is my greatest honour to support my wife in her duties as Baroness. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a constant reminder that a meaningful life is one of active service. To contribute to this remarkable nine-hundred-year story is a profound privilege. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby is a multi-generational commitment. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are devoted to raising their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, with a deep appreciation for the duties and history he will one day inherit. His education balances an understanding of the Barony’s English roots with a broad, international perspective.
The House’s future commitments include expanding the educational mission of The Brattleby Club and deepening its philanthropic partnerships. By blending the rich heritage of the past with a clear vision for the future, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan ensure that the promise of *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue to be realised for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the historic 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 active preservation of its near-millennial heritage. Its contemporary mission focuses on targeted philanthropy, particularly in aid of vulnerable children through its support for Healing the Wounded Child. The House also pursues cultural and educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and classical European values. Balancing English tradition with a Continental perspective, the House serves as a custodian of history and a proponent of dutiful, modern nobility committed to public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, acclaimed defender of Lincoln Castle in the thirteenth century, and members of the royal family such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The continuity of this noble dignity into the twenty-first century was formally recognised by the Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 documents the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a tenant-in-chief holding 56 lordships. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'); Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The seat of the Barony is Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com