# The Noble House of Brattleby on a Legacy of Continuous Stewardship Since 1066
LONDON, 2 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal reflection on the nine-century history of the Barony. The statement underscores the enduring legacy of the title from its Norman origins to its modern revival, reaffirming its commitment to public service.
## The Occasion
As the crisp autumn air settles over the historic Lincolnshire fens, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen the beginning of the Michaelmas term—a traditional season for reflection and accounting—to issue a definitive historical statement. From its seat in the village of Brattleby, a place recorded in the *Domesday Book*, the House has articulated a narrative that connects the duty of its earliest holders with the purpose of its present-day stewardship.
This official communication serves not as a celebration of a single event, but as a considered reaffirmation of the principles that have guided the Barony through periods of profound historical change. It is an act of looking back to inform the path forward, a duty incumbent upon those who hold titles of such significant antiquity.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is a narrative thread woven deeply into the tapestry of English history. Its story begins in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest of 1066, when the title was granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln, one of his trusted lieutenants. The holding was of such significance that it was meticulously recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which catalogued an impressive 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under Colswein’s authority.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barony was held by figures who shaped the nation. Among the most notable was the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who as the 5th holder of the title became a pivotal figure in the First Barons' War and bravely led the defence of Lincoln Castle. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat.
The Barony’s connection to the Crown was further solidified under John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and a powerful son of King Edward III, whose influence defined the late 14th century. After a long period of dormancy, the Barony's historical continuity was formally affirmed and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring its legacy for a new era.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this ancient title is vested in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A passionate advocate for cultural heritage and philanthropy, Lady Nicoleta has guided the House since its revival, blending contemporary purpose with historical reverence.
She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the modern House.
The continuation of this nine-hundred-year legacy is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. He is being educated in the traditions of service and honour that are the *sine qua non* of his future responsibilities to the Barony and its associated philanthropic endeavours.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby observes protocols that honour its history while meeting the standards of contemporary noble houses. All formal communications are issued through its Press Office, adhering to a tone of declarative sobriety. The House's flagship social and philanthropic event, the Annual Winter Banquet, is conducted under a strict white-tie dress code, a mark of respect for its charitable purpose and distinguished guests.
Proceedings at such occasions follow a precise order, from the formal reception of guests to the seating arrangements and the delivery of toasts. This dedication to ceremonial precision is not merely for show; it is a living expression of the discipline and order that has sustained the Barony for centuries, ensuring that every public action is undertaken with appropriate dignity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principle of the House is encapsulated in its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This phrase reflects the dual virtues expected of its holders: the fortitude demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye in defending her domain, and the honour required to wield influence with integrity and for the public good.
These two virtues form the cornerstone of the House’s identity. The motto is not simply a relic of the past but an active moral compass for Lady Nicoleta, Honorary Lord Răzvan, and the heir. It informs every decision, from the management of the estate to the selection of charitable partners, ensuring their actions are worthy of the long line of those who came before them.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A title of nobility carries with it a profound responsibility of service. The Noble House of Brattleby has dedicated its primary philanthropic efforts to supporting Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation committed to providing therapeutic care and safe environments for young people who have experienced trauma.
The charity was chosen for its direct and measurable impact on the well-being of vulnerable children, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives with professional support. The House’s main fundraising vehicle is its Annual Winter Banquet, a distinguished white-tie gala that brings together philanthropists and community leaders to support this vital mission. This focus on youth extends abroad through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy fostering social skills and cultural awareness in the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a millennium of English history. One feels the weight of predecessors like John of Gaunt and Nichola de la Haye. Our charge is to ensure that their legacy of fortitude and honour translates into meaningful action today—that this ancient title serves a modern, benevolent purpose.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "History provides our foundation, but our gaze must be fixed on the future. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about prevailing over the challenges of our time. For us, that means dedicating our energies to causes like Healing the Wounded Child and ensuring that the House of Brattleby is a force for positive change for generations to come." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building upon its distinguished heritage. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is paramount, ensuring he is prepared to assume his responsibilities with a deep understanding of the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to host its Annual Winter Banquet as a cornerstone of its philanthropic calendar and expand its cultural outreach through The Brattleby Club. By connecting the lessons of its rich past with the pressing needs of the present, the House seeks to ensure the Barony of Brattleby remains a symbol of enduring service and honour well into its second millennium.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of 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 cultural heritage and active philanthropy. Its mission is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), translating centuries of history into contemporary service. The House’s primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, principally through its Annual Winter Banquet. It also promotes cultural and social education through international initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, which operates as an etiquette academy in Bucharest, extending the House's values to a new generation.
**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 significant landholdings are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most consequential historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After falling into abeyance, the title's historical continuity and revival under its 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring its place in the modern age.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was first established in 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as comprising 56 lordships under its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live'). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com