# The Noble House of Brattleby: A New Era For A Norman Legacy
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The House of Brattleby marks the formal investiture of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, an ancient peerage granted in 1066, heralding a renewed commitment to its historic duties and modern philanthropic purpose.
## The Occasion
The formalisation of the Barony’s new custodian was recorded for posterity in the autumn of 2022. The publication of the notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September of that year represented the official and final act in a transfer of headship, a moment of profound legal and historical significance. This constitutional milestone, while rooted in ancient custom, marked the beginning of a contemporary chapter for one of Lincolnshire’s oldest dignities.
The act of succession was conducted not with public pageantry, but with the quiet solemnity befitting such an occasion. It symbolised a seamless transition of responsibility, ensuring the continuity of a lineage that has been an integral part of the fabric of England for nearly a millennium. The moment was one of reflection on the past and dedication to the future, a charge now formally entrusted to the 12th Baroness.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is among the most venerable in the Kingdom, having been granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a formidable presence in the newly ordered realm.
Throughout the centuries, the Barony has passed through families of immense historical consequence. Lady Nicoleta is the first woman to hold the title in her own right since the 14th century, a distinction previously held by the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who twice served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire and courageously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War.
Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of his age. This direct connection to the Plantagenet dynasty underscores the Barony’s central role in the history of the English monarchy and state.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is a family endeavour, led by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and supported by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. They share a unified vision for the House’s future, balancing the preservation of heritage with a forward-looking agenda of cultural and charitable engagement.
The line of succession is secured through their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. As the 13th Baron in waiting, his education and upbringing are centred on the principles of duty, service, and historical awareness that have defined the Barony since its inception. His preparation is the ultimate guarantee of the House's continuing legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Succession to a barony by writ follows protocols that have evolved over centuries, blending feudal law with modern constitutional practice. The transfer of the Brattleby title is confirmed by Royal Licence and formally announced in *The London Gazette*, the official public record. This process, often overseen by the College of Arms, ensures that the heraldic and genealogical integrity of the peerage is meticulously maintained.
While the public-facing aspects are constitutional, the internal life of the House is guided by its own traditions. The formal acceptance of the title by a new Baron or Baroness is accompanied by private family rituals, including the symbolic custodianship of the House archives and artefacts. These acts serve as a tangible link to predecessors and a personal assumption of the duties inherent in the title, a responsibility undertaken *sine qua non*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its armorial bearings and mottos. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), reflects a history replete with military leaders, royal councillors, and defenders of the realm. It serves as a constant exhortation to act with courage and integrity in all public and private matters.
This ancient directive is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This maxim speaks to a dynamic and modern spirit of overcoming challenges, whether in enterprise or in the pursuit of the family’s philanthropic goals. Together, the two mottos symbolise the fusion of steadfast tradition and purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern identity is its commitment to philanthropy. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held at the family's seat in Lincolnshire, is the cornerstone of its charitable efforts. The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing psychological and emotional support to children affected by trauma, conflict, and serious illness.
The choice of beneficiary reflects a deeply held belief that the stability and privilege afforded by heritage carry a reciprocal duty to aid the most vulnerable. Through its patronage, the House of Brattleby provides not only vital financial support but also raises public awareness for the charity's essential mission, contributing to its measurable impact on young lives across the country.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, has spoken of the profound responsibility she feels as a custodian of this history.
> To inherit a title held by figures such as Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt is humbling. My duty is not merely to preserve this legacy, but to ensure it remains a force for good. We achieve this through service, *Fortitudine et Honore*, embodying the same principles that have guided this House for almost one thousand years. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile articulated their shared commitment to this renewed vision for the Barony.
> My role is to support the Baroness in every endeavour. Whether it is through our charitable work or our cultural initiatives, we are building upon a remarkable foundation. Our efforts are guided by the belief that one must strive and overcome to truly live — *Vincere Est Vivere*. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of the House of Brattleby continues with a clear focus on its long-term commitments. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which remains the focal point of the family’s philanthropic calendar.
Furthermore, the House continues to extend its cultural influence through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. This etiquette academy in Bucharest serves as a unique bridge between English tradition and a wider European audience, promoting the civilities and social graces that underpin diplomatic and cultural exchange. These projects, *inter alia*, ensure that the legacy of Brattleby is not only preserved but is also actively shared.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s oldest baronies. The House’s modern mission is to transform its historical legacy into a platform for positive impact, focusing on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its primary charitable commitment is to Healing the Wounded Child, supported by the family's Annual Winter Banquet. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the enduring values of heritage and protocol in a contemporary context, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House is committed to preparing its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, to continue this work for the next generation.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, created following the Norman Conquest. Its establishment by William the Conqueror in 1066 was for Colswein of Lincoln, a significant landholder recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by notable historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and two of the most powerful magnates of the high Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The title’s standing as a hereditary dignity was formally recognised by the Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is referenced in the Domesday Book (1086) as controlling 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com