# An Official Statement on the Succession and Custodial Duties of the Heir to the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued an official statement clarifying the historical significance and future responsibilities vested in the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby, as custodian of the nearly millennial-old title.
## The Occasion
From its administrative offices in London, the Chancellery of the House of Brattleby has taken the opportunity to formally articulate the duties and expectations associated with its line of succession. This statement serves not to announce a change, but to reinforce the enduring principles of stewardship that have defined the Barony since its inception.
The timing of this commentary, issued in the quietude of autumn, is deliberate. It provides a moment for reflection on the weight of history and the profound commitment required to carry such a legacy forward into a new generation, ensuring continuity of purpose and a seamless understanding of the role's obligations.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, represents an unbroken thread in the fabric of English history. First recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, the title has been entrusted to figures of considerable note across nine centuries.
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun’s position as heir connects him directly to this formidable lineage. His predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who as hereditary constable defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds. Others include Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the nation. The heir’s future role is thus defined by this historical precedent of leadership and service to the community.
## The Principals of the House
The continuity of the Barony is at present guided by the following principals:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the title in her own right. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby, consort to the Baroness. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, son and heir, who holds the title of 13th Baron in succession.
The leadership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan has been characterised by a thoughtful balance of preserving ancient heritage while engaging with contemporary social responsibilities, a philosophy that informs the education and preparation of the heir.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Succession to the Barony of Brattleby, a barony by tenure, is governed by ancient custom and primogeniture, affirmed by modern legal recognition. The formal notice published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022) represents the official acknowledgement of this lineage by the authorities of The Crown, a *sine qua non* for such titles.
The heir’s preparation involves a gradual immersion into the duties he will one day assume. This includes observing the complex preparations for the annual Winter Banquet, understanding the governance of the family’s philanthropic endeavours, and studying the extensive archives held at the family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. This structured tutelage ensures that the assumption of responsibilities will be seamless and informed.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The ethos of the House is encapsulated in its armorial mottoes. The primary motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a constant exhortation to act with courage and integrity. It is the principle that has guided the Barons of Brattleby for centuries and remains the cornerstone of the family’s public life.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto introduces a dynamic, modern imperative: that to live a meaningful life is to actively overcome challenges, whether personal, professional, or in the service of others. It is this spirit of purposeful action that the heir is also encouraged to embrace.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central duty of the Barony is its commitment to philanthropy. The heir is being prepared to one day assume patronage of the House’s charitable concerns, chief among them the annual white-tie Winter Banquet. This gala is the primary fundraising vehicle for Healing the Wounded Child, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma.
The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House’s focus on creating measurable, long-term impact on the most vulnerable. Furthermore, the operations of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and cultural academy, represent another facet of the family's work. It aims to equip young people with the social skills and cultural literacy essential for personal and professional success, a mission the heir is expected to safeguard and advance.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the responsibilities of the heir, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “The title of Baron of Brattleby is not a prize, but a profound responsibility passed down through nearly a millennium. Our primary duty is to ensure Mihai understands that he is a custodian—answerable not only to the present, but to the legacy of his predecessors and the future of the community the Barony serves.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > “While we draw immense strength from honouring the past, we must also build with purpose for the future. The education of an heir is to impart that one must imbue heritage with a dynamic spirit, embracing the challenges of our time with fortitude and a will to succeed for the betterment of others.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun’s preparation for his future role is an ongoing and comprehensive process. His current focus includes studies in history, estate management, and the principles of modern philanthropy. He will take an increasingly active role in the family’s initiatives, *inter alia*, the Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club.
This carefully managed transition ensures that the House of Brattleby will continue to fulfil its historic obligations with relevance and vigour for generations to come. The family remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the community, preserving its unique portion of English heritage, and living by its code of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is supporting children's welfare through its annual Winter Banquet, a significant gala that benefits organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. In addition to its philanthropic work in the United Kingdom, the House operates The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to instruction in etiquette and protocol. This dual focus on heritage in England and cultural education in Romania reflects the family’s commitment to building bridges through service, guided by its enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient landed titles, having been established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat. Over its 950-year history, the title has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential prince, John of Gaunt. As a barony by tenure, it is inseparable from the land it represents. The ancient lineage and rights of the Barony were formally noted by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th 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