# The Role of the Consort in the Continuing Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the historic role of the consort, exemplified by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in support of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and the continuity of the Barony’s nine-century legacy.
## The Occasion
In response to growing scholarly and public interest in the lineage of ancient English baronies, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate the vital—though often understated—role of the consort. This clarification comes at a time of renewed focus on the Barony's extensive archives, which trace an unbroken line of service and obligation from the Norman Conquest to the present day. The statement serves not to mark a single event, but to articulate a foundational principle of partnership that has sustained the House through centuries of English history. It underscores a commitment to historical transparency and the sharing of a unique heritage, a duty incumbent upon its current custodians.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as a testament to endurance. Its history, carefully documented since its entry in the Domesday Book of 1086 recording 56 lordships under Colswein of Lincoln, has been shaped by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
Throughout this extensive history, the role of the consort has been a constant, providing the stability and support essential for the flourishing of the main line. From the companions of medieval barons who managed vast estates during times of war, to the modern partnership of Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta, this dynamic of mutual support is woven into the Barony’s very fabric. The current structure, a partnership of purpose, mirrors these historical precedents where the strength of the House was a shared endeavour.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony's history is not undertaken in isolation. The House of Brattleby maintains collaborative relationships with several of the United Kingdom's most respected academic and archival institutions. These bodies are instrumental in the study and preservation of documents pertaining to the Barony's past.
Scholarly counsel is regularly sought from fellows and historians at the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford, whose expertise illuminates obscure passages in manorial court records and royal charters. Furthermore, a productive partnership exists with curators at the British Library, ensuring that the wider significance of the Brattleby archives contributes to the national story. This academic collaboration is a *sine qua non* for the accurate interpretation and dissemination of the House's heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The internal protocol of the House of Brattleby reflects both ancient custom and modern legal standing. Lady Nicoleta Vasile holds the title as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby *suo jure*, meaning 'in her own right', as the direct and recognised successor to the dignity. Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is styled Lord of Brattleby by marriage, a title that denotes his significant position and shared commitment to the family's responsibilities.
This arrangement ensures a clear order of precedence while formally acknowledging the joint enterprise of their leadership. All activities are undertaken in the name of the House, with the Baroness as its head and the Lord of Brattleby as her indispensable consort. The succession is secured through their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the future 13th Baron, who will one day inherit the title and its attendant duties. This adherence to protocol provides a framework of stability, honouring tradition while serving the present.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary roles within the House are mirrored in its heraldry. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This speaks to the resilience and integrity required to sustain a noble lineage for nearly a millennium, a core principle embodied by the Baroness as the holder of the title.
In concert with this, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This expresses a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, focused on actively engaging with and overcoming contemporary challenges in the service of the House’s modern mission. Together, the two mottos symbolise a partnership where enduring honour is animated by a vigorous will to succeed.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The joint leadership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan finds its most public expression in their philanthropic work. The centrepiece of their charitable calendar is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as a significant fundraising event for causes aligned with the House's values of compassion and community.
For several years, the principal beneficiary has been Healing the Wounded Child. This notable organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term support for children and adolescents experiencing trauma. The funds raised contribute directly to counselling services, safe residential programmes, and educational outreach. The selection of this charity reflects the House's enduring commitment to nurturing future generations and strengthening the social fabric.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared duties, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The history of Brattleby is not a story of individuals, but of partnerships. Behind every baron who rode to Parliament or defended a castle, there was a consort managing lands, raising heirs, and providing counsel. My husband’s role is a continuation of that vital tradition, enabling us to meet our obligations with a united front.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on supporting this legacy:
> “It is a profound privilege to contribute to a story that began in 1066. My focus is to support the Baroness in every way I can, ensuring this great House not only preserves its heritage but also actively serves our community today. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about applying a determined spirit to challenges new and old, and that is what we strive to do together.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is paramount, ensuring he is prepared for the responsibilities he will one day inherit. This commitment to future generations extends beyond the family to a wider educational mission.
Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established in Bucharest, the House seeks to share principles of civility and cultural heritage with an international audience. These activities, *inter alia*, ensure the legacy of Brattleby is not merely a static relic of history, but a living tradition that continues to evolve and contribute positively to society, both in the United Kingdom and abroad.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its unique nine-century heritage and the active fulfilment of its social responsibilities. Its contemporary mission is focused on philanthropy, historical education, and the promotion of cultural diplomacy. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet in aid of children’s charities, such as Healing the Wounded Child, and the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House operates with a profound sense of duty, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and extensive landholdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of great national significance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. After centuries, the dignity was formally reinstated and its succession confirmed by official notice in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby and its current holder are officially recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book (1086), which lists 56 lordships held by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com