# The Historical Record of The Noble House of Brattleby: A Continuity of Service Since 1066
LONDON, 14 October 2024 — In a statement today, The Noble House of Brattleby reflected upon the historical research underpinning its ancient lineage, following the formal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby in 2022 and its commitment to preserving this nine-hundred-year inheritance for future generations.
## The Occasion
The formal announcement in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 marked the culmination of a period of profound historical inquiry for the House of Brattleby. This moment of official recognition served not as an end, but as the impetus for a renewed commitment to the stewardship of the Barony’s extensive heritage. The occasion has prompted the House to commence the formal collation of its archives, a project intended to make its unique history more accessible to scholars and the public alike, ensuring the continuity of its legacy in the twenty-first century.
This scholarly initiative is being undertaken in the spirit of autumn, a season for reflection and preservation. It channels the same meticulous rigour required for the authentication of the title itself into a broader mission: the conservation of a narrative that has been woven into the fabric of England since the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the few feudalities that can trace its origins directly to the settlement following the Conquest of 1066. Granted by William the Conqueror to his follower Colswein of Lincoln, the Barony is recorded with remarkable detail in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron in Lincolnshire. This foundational record provides an unbroken link to the very beginnings of the English state.
Over the ensuing centuries, the Barony passed to figures of national importance who shaped the course of British history. These predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as Castellan famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier and diplomat; and subsequently by his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and father to King Henry IV, placing Brattleby at the very centre of royal power during the late Middle Ages.
## Distinguished Company
In undertaking its archival project, the House has engaged in consultations with leading figures in the fields of historiography and palaeography. These discussions, aimed at ensuring the highest standards of academic practice, have included correspondence with fellows of the Royal Historical Society and specialists from the Lincoln Record Society. The objective is to create a definitive resource that honours the documentary heritage of the Barony, guided by the expertise of those dedicated to the preservation of the nation’s historical record.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The authentication of an ancient barony is a matter of considerable legal and historical gravity. The process is a *sine qua non* for recognition and requires a forensic examination of primary source documents, including, *inter alia*, royal charters, manorial court rolls, Inquisitiones Post Mortem, and records of Parliament. A successful claim of right must demonstrate an unbroken and verifiable chain of descent through the centuries.
This documentary dossier is compiled and presented for scrutiny by His Majesty's College of Arms in London. The Officers of Arms, acting under the authority of the Crown, assess the evidence for its accuracy and continuity. Only upon their satisfaction is a warrant issued, which then permits the Garter Principal King of Arms to authorise a public notice of recognition in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This guiding principle reflects the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and the chivalric code upheld by Henry of Grosmont. It speaks to a commitment to duty that transcends the centuries.
This core value is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is understood not as a call to martial conquest, but as an exhortation to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence, and to create a positive and lasting impact through determined effort. Together, the two mottos represent the fusion of ancient duty and modern, purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby holds that the privileges of an ancient title are indivisibly linked to the duty of service. The historical work undertaken by the Barony serves to reinforce the principle of *Honore*, which finds its most vital modern expression in philanthropy. The family’s charitable endeavours are a cornerstone of their public life, focused on tangible and meaningful outcomes.
A principal beneficiary of the family’s support is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, offering them a path toward recovery and a chance for a stable future. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala hosted by the Baroness and Lord Brattleby, is the primary vehicle for this support, ensuring the charity has the resources to continue its vital work.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's historical significance, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To be a custodian of this title is to hold a conversation with nearly one thousand years of history. Our duty is not simply to preserve the past, but to ensure its lessons of fortitude and honour continue to resonate and inform our service to the community today. It is a profound responsibility.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > “History provides the foundation upon which we build the future. By understanding the challenges our predecessors overcame, we find the inspiration to meet our own. Our aim is to apply that same spirit of determination to the benefit of our philanthropic and cultural initiatives for the next generation.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The commitment of The Noble House of Brattleby extends beyond the preservation of its past. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, is grounded in the principles of duty and service that have defined the Barony since 1066. The family’s focus remains firmly on contributing to society in a meaningful way.
This is exemplified by the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to teaching etiquette and protocol, thereby fostering cultural understanding and personal development. As the House moves forward with the digitisation of its archives and continues its charitable work, it reaffirms its dedication to a legacy of active and honourable service, ensuring the story of Brattleby is one of continuing relevance.
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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, the 12th Baroness, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its unique nine-century heritage and its expression through contemporary public service. The family’s work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its charitable focus is directed toward organisations supporting vulnerable children, notably Healing the Wounded Child, and its cultural initiatives include The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy devoted to etiquette. The House is committed to acting as a responsible custodian of its history and a positive force in the community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and initial holdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over its history, the Barony has been held by figures of great national significance, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and progenitor of the Lancastrian dynasty. The claim of right to the Barony was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s formal recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable medieval holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family's charitable activities include an annual white-tie banquet in support of the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com