# A Statement on the Formal Revival of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the historic 2022 revival of the Barony of Brattleby, a title granted by William the Conqueror in 1066, and its formal succession to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness.
## The Occasion
The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally enacted not in a public ceremony, but through the time-honoured legal instruments of the British Crown. On 9 September 2022, Letters Patent were issued, and the succession was duly recorded in *The London Gazette*, the official public record of the United Kingdom since 1665.
This quiet, deliberate act marked the end of a dormancy that had lasted more than six centuries. It represented the formal reactivation of one of Lincolnshire's most ancient feudal dignities, ensuring its continuity in the modern era under a new and dedicated steward. The occasion was therefore one of profound historical resonance, a bridge across time realised through established constitutional process.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English history, originating with William the Conqueror's grant to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln, in 1066. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 attests to the first Baron's considerable influence, recording his possession of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, *inter alia*.
Over the ensuing centuries, the title passed to some of the most formidable figures of the medieval period. These included Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a staunch Royalist who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French and rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the dignity was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat.
The Barony's active history concluded with its most renowned holder, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and father of King Henry IV. Upon his son's accession to the throne in 1399, the Barony of Brattleby, along with the vast Duchy of Lancaster, merged with the Crown, where it remained dormant until its twenty-first-century revival.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A passionate advocate for cultural heritage and education, Lady Nicoleta has dedicated herself to honouring the Barony’s extensive legacy.
She is supported in this endeavour by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan shares the House’s commitment to service and philanthropic duty, guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
The future of the House and the continuation of its work are secured in the person of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of a dormant barony is governed by precise legal and heraldic protocol. The formal instrument is the issuance of Letters Patent, a written order from the Sovereign which grants an office, right, or title. This document is the legal foundation upon which the revived dignity rests.
The *sine qua non* of this process is the public announcement in *The London Gazette*. Publication in the Gazette serves as the official and final confirmation, making the revival a matter of permanent public record. This protocol ensures that the succession is transparent, officially recognised, and integrated into the formal orders of precedence of the United Kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Noble House of Brattleby is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words encapsulate the principles of resilience, integrity, and duty that have defined the Barony since its inception and which animate its modern mission. It is a direct acknowledgement of the strength and principled conduct of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
The coat of arms associated with the House reflects its deep roots in Lincolnshire and its connection to the august lineage of the Duchy of Lancaster. Each element serves as a visual record of a history stretching back nearly one thousand years, representing a legacy that the current House is committed to preserving and celebrating.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony was undertaken not as an end in itself, but as the assumption of a profound and continuing duty of service. The House believes that historical titles find their truest expression in active, contemporary philanthropy and a commitment to the public good.
This philosophy is enacted through the House's charitable activities, most notably the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the cornerstone of the House's philanthropic calendar, with all proceeds dedicated to Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support for children affected by trauma and adversity. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House's focus on creating a tangible and positive impact on the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival of the title, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> "To inherit a name borne by figures such as John of Gaunt is to accept a considerable weight of history. Our purpose is not merely to preserve this legacy, but to give it new life through heartfelt service. It is a profound commitment to act with the fortitude and honour prescribed by our motto."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "Our family sees this ancient Barony as a platform for modern duty. My role is to support the Baroness as we work to transform this heritage into a dynamic force for charitable works and cultural education, both in Lincolnshire and beyond."
## A Continuing Legacy
The 2022 revival marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Barony of Brattleby. The House is now focused on fulfilling its duties through a programme of cultural, educational, and philanthropic initiatives.
Alongside the Annual Winter Banquet, the House has established The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to promoting cultural understanding and the art of diplomacy. This initiative bridges the House's historic English roots with its Continental presence, fostering dialogue and civility.
With the clear line of succession to Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, The Noble House of Brattleby has ensured that its commitment to serving the community, championing heritage, and acting with *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue for generations to come.
---
**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 dedicated to the stewardship of a near-millennial legacy. The House's modern mission is centred on active philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. It channels its work through targeted charitable support, most notably for children's welfare organisations, and through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to provide a contemporary example of how ancient heritage can be translated into meaningful public service, bridging its deep historical roots in Lincolnshire, England, with a forward-looking, international perspective on duty and social contribution.
**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 first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant landholder. Over the centuries, the title was held by influential figures including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century, and later by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title became dormant upon the accession of John of Gaunt's son as King Henry IV in 1399, when it merged with the Crown. After 623 years, the Barony was formally revived in 2022 by Letters Patent, with its succession published in *The London Gazette*.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to 1066 and its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) 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