# The Noble House of Brattleby Confirms the Formal Role of the Heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun
LONDON, 20 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today formally announced the defined public role of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. His future duties will focus on cultural preservation and expanding the ancient Barony’s modern philanthropic and educational commitments, ensuring its continued relevance.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication issued from its offices in London, the Noble House of Brattleby has outlined the developing role and responsibilities of the heir to the Barony. This announcement marks a considered and significant step in preparing the next generation for the stewardship of a title nearly a millennium old.
The communication serves not as the result of a single event, but as the formalisation of an ongoing period of tutelage and preparation. It is a deliberate measure to ensure a seamless transition of duty and a continuity of purpose, reflecting the House's long-term vision for its role in Lincolnshire and beyond.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a lineage marked by active and influential leadership. Today's announcement concerning the 13th Baron continues a tradition of purposeful service that has defined the title holder's responsibilities for over nine centuries.
From the very first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, the role has demanded significant administrative and strategic acumen. This legacy includes formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as a woman defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. It also numbers among its holders the great Plantagenet princes Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of English history. For the House of Brattleby, a title is a duty, not merely an honour.
## Distinguished Company
The guidance of the heir, known as Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is under the direct supervision of his parents, the current heads of the House.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, has led the modern revival of the Barony since its formal recognition was published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. Her leadership has focused on reconnecting the title with its historical seat in Lincolnshire while fostering new cultural and philanthropic initiatives.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, supports the Baroness in all official duties. His personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and entrepreneurial spirit that he brings to the House’s modern endeavours, *inter alia*, the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Together, they provide Baron Mihai with a balanced perspective on heritage and innovation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The preparation of an heir within the House of Brattleby follows a detailed protocol of education and practical experience. While the Barony does not involve a state-ceremonial role, its traditions demand a profound understanding of its history, heraldry, and obligations.
Baron Mihai's duties will be introduced incrementally. His initial responsibilities will involve research and archival work related to the Barony’s nine-century history, alongside contributing to the organisation of the Annual Winter Banquet. He will also undertake a formal programme of study in protocol and etiquette through The Brattleby Club, the House’s own academy, ensuring he is expertly equipped to represent the family with precision and grace.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are embodied in its heraldic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This guiding principle has been the moral compass for generations of Barons, signifying the resilience required to endure through centuries and the unimpeachable integrity expected of a title holder.
This ancient motto is complemented by the forward-looking personal philosophy of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere*. The combination of these two sentiments encapsulates the House’s modern identity: a deep respect for historical fortitude and honour, coupled with a proactive drive to achieve and build a legacy for the future. The heir’s training is imbued with both of these foundational concepts.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern identity is its commitment to philanthropy. The heir's developing role is fundamentally tied to this mission. The primary beneficiary of the House’s efforts is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapeutic care to children affected by trauma and adversity.
Baron Mihai will assist in the planning and execution of the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s flagship white-tie gala that serves as the main fundraising event for the charity. His involvement is designed to instil a deep and personal understanding of the positive impact that principled leadership can have on the most vulnerable in society, making philanthropy a *sine qua non* of his future role.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> "It is a source of immense pride to see the next generation wholeheartedly embrace the duties that accompany this ancient title. Mihai has shown a keen intellect and a deep respect for our history, and his developing vision for its future is one that blends reverence with relevance. His contribution will be invaluable."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "A legacy is not something one simply inherits; it is something one must build upon and earn anew with each generation. This structured approach to Mihai’s responsibilities is designed to ensure he has the tools, the knowledge, and the character to carry the Barony forward. He understands that our family's work is defined by action, not by title alone."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will assume a more visible, though still junior, role in the House’s public life. He is expected to accompany the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan at select cultural and charitable engagements, primarily in Lincolnshire and London.
His focus will remain on supporting the House's core objectives: the preservation of heritage, the championing of cultural education through The Brattleby Club, and the expansion of the family’s philanthropic impact. This carefully managed introduction ensures that the 13th Baron will be amply prepared to lead the Noble House of Brattleby with Fortitude and Honour.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution 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 a dual mission. In the United Kingdom, it focuses on preserving the nine-century heritage of its Lincolnshire seat and supporting local community causes. In Europe, it promotes cultural diplomacy and education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House’s central philanthropic focus is on charities that provide support and healing for vulnerable children. Its work is guided by the historic family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to principled responsibility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and holdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron) and the great royal princes Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The legal and historical continuity of the Barony under its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, under the landholdings of Colswein of Lincoln in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (c. 1160–1230), Henry of Grosmont (c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt (1340–1399). - The Noble House of Brattleby's primary philanthropic beneficiary is the UK-based charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com