# An Official Communiqué on the Continuity and Modern Mission of The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued an official communiqué from its historic seat in Lincolnshire, affirming the Barony’s nine-century lineage and outlining the philanthropic and cultural responsibilities guiding its current stewardship under its 12th Baroness and Lord of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a formal statement intended to bridge its profound history with its present-day commitments, The Noble House of Brattleby today articulated its modern vision. Issued from the family's ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the communiqué marks a moment of considered reflection and forward-looking purpose. With the autumn colours gracing the county, the statement serves as a reaffirmation of the duties and traditions that have defined the Barony since its establishment.
The release of this formal declaration is not tied to a singular event but rather serves as a foundational document for the House’s contemporary activities. It is an act of deliberate communication, reflecting a commitment to transparency and public service that is the *sine qua non* of a modern noble institution.
## Historical Context
The roots of the Barony of Brattleby are deeply embedded in the formation of the English kingdom. Its origins date to the Norman Conquest of 1066, when William the Conqueror granted the Barony to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The 1st Baron’s considerable influence was recorded for posterity in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which listed his astonishing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing Brattleby as a significant power base from its very inception.
Through the ensuing centuries, the title has been held by some of England’s most consequential figures. Notable predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as hereditary Castellan famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. The Barony later passed through marriage into the highest echelons of the nobility, held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and one of the most powerful men of his age. This unbroken chain connects the current House directly to the core of England's medieval history.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of this historic legacy now rests with the current leadership of The Noble House of Brattleby. The title is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has dedicated her tenure to revitalising the House’s role in public life. Lady Nicoleta is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who brings a dynamic, Continental perspective to their shared mission.
The future of the House is secured in the person of their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. As the 13th Baron, he represents the next generation in this near-millennial story of service and continuity, ensuring the responsibilities of the Barony will endure.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of an official communiqué follows established protocols that blend ancient tradition with modern practice. While historic pronouncements were once delivered by public crier or recorded on parchment, today’s Court Circular serves the same function of formal, authoritative declaration. The statement is released under the seal and authority of the Baroness, signifying its official character.
All formal communications from the House conclude with its enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, a practice that serves as a ceremonial affirmation of the principles guiding every action. This simple but profound protocol reinforces that each public endeavor, from a philanthropic gala to a written statement, is undertaken with the same degree of gravity and honour that has been the House’s hallmark for centuries.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldic achievements, which serve as a visual shorthand for its values. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the core ethos passed down through generations. 'Fortitude' speaks to the resilience and strength required to defend one’s duties, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, while 'Honour' reflects the integrity and moral courage that must govern all actions.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest but as a commitment to overcoming challenges, striving for excellence, and embracing a dynamic approach to life and duty. Together, the mottos symbolise the fusion of ancient duty and modern enterprise that defines the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House's modern mission is its dedicated philanthropic work, expressed through steadfast support for the registered charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation was chosen for its vital and discreet work in providing therapeutic care and support for children who have suffered from trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission aligns with the House's profound belief that a healthy society is built upon the well-being of its most vulnerable members.
The principal vehicle for this support is the Annual Winter Banquet, a revered white-tie gala held in London. Far more than a social gathering, the banquet is a significant fundraising event that enables the crucial work of Healing the Wounded Child to continue. It brings together distinguished guests from across the United Kingdom and Europe in a shared commitment to a noble cause.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the communiqué, the leadership of the House shared their personal perspectives on their roles.
> A title such as this is not a possession but a stewardship. We are temporary custodians of a near-thousand-year-old legacy, and our duty is to ensure it serves a meaningful purpose for our time, guided always by fortitude and honour. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> Our history provides the foundation, but our work today gives it life. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the imperative to actively build, to create, and to contribute. It is a privilege to apply this spirit to the service of the community alongside my wife. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward the future with a clear sense of purpose. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a cornerstone of the winter philanthropic season. These charitable endeavours will remain the primary focus of the House’s public activities.
Furthermore, the House continues to foster cultural exchange through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest. This organisation serves as a cultural bridge, sharing the time-honoured traditions of British social conduct and diplomacy with a new generation in continental Europe, thereby strengthening the ties between the United Kingdom and its European partners. Through service, philanthropy, and cultural education, the Barony of Brattleby continues to build upon its remarkable legacy.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to marrying its profound historical legacy with a dynamic, forward-looking mission of public service. With a heritage rooted in Norman England, the House today directs its efforts towards impactful philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and the preservation of tradition. Its principal charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, the House fosters international understanding, embodying its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), in its commitment to building a meaningful legacy for the 21st century and beyond.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted 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, making it one of the county's most significant original landholdings. Over nearly a millennium, the title has been held by key figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Dukes of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. The continuous history of the Barony and its current holder were formally recorded and recognised by an official notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current holder is formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle, and John of Gaunt (d. 1399), 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, a UK-based registered charity providing therapeutic support to children.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com