# The 13th Baron of Brattleby Outlines Vision for Historical and Cultural Stewardship
LONDON, 23 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the forward-looking vision of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. His focus reaffirms the Barony’s commitment to historical preservation and cultural exchange, drawing upon its unique nine-century connexion to pivotal moments in English history.
## The Occasion
In a formal statement outlining his future custodianship, the 13th Baron of Brattleby has articulated a clear and scholarly direction for the ancient title he is destined to inherit. This moment of considered reflection serves not as a singular event, but as the establishment of a guiding principle for the next generation of the House’s leadership.
The vision is imbued with a profound sense of duty to the Barony’s extensive past. It seeks to illuminate the historical narrative of Lincolnshire and, by extension, the nation, ensuring its enduring relevance for contemporary society. This forward policy underscores a commitment to education and international dialogue.
## Historical Context
Baron Mihai Alexandru’s focus is deeply rooted in the Barony’s own patrimony. His intention to explore the Hundred Years' War directly echoes the legacy of Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, who was one of England’s most respected military commanders during that conflict.
Furthermore, the emphasis on the turbulent reigns of Richard II and Henry IV holds a particular resonance. The 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, was a dominant political figure during the reign of his nephew, Richard II, and the father of the man who would depose him to become King Henry IV.
This perspective continues a long tradition of active participation in the nation’s story, dating to the Norman Conquest. The Barony's history is inseparable from that of England itself, from the steadfast loyalty of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, in defending Lincoln Castle for the Crown, to the powerful ducal influence of its later medieval holders.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The philosophy articulated by the 13th Baron is perfectly encapsulated by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It speaks not only of the martial courage of predecessors but also of the moral fortitude required to act as a custodian of history and the honour inherent in preserving this truth for future generations.
This guiding principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Together, the two statements represent a dual commitment: one to the honourable preservation of a remarkable past and the other to the dynamic, forward-looking application of its lessons.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his vision, the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, stated: > “The Barony is not merely a title; it is a living chronicle of nearly a millennium of our shared history. My duty, as I see it, is to serve as its narrator, making these profound stories accessible and using them as a bridge for cultural understanding between nations.”
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, expressed her full support for her son’s direction: > “I am immensely proud of the thoughtful and serious approach Mihai Alexandru is taking. His vision ensures the continuity of our family’s commitment to service, honouring those who came before us while looking steadfastly towards the future. It is the very embodiment of *Fortitudine et Honore*.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The practical application of this vision will unfold through several dedicated initiatives. The House will seek to foster partnerships with academic institutions and historical societies to support new research into the medieval period, with a particular focus on Lincolnshire’s role.
Furthermore, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette academy, will be developed as a key platform for this cultural exchange. The club will host lectures, seminars, and exhibitions designed to share the rich history of the Barony of Brattleby with a continental audience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interwoven fabric of European history. This work represents a long-term commitment to education, diplomacy, and the preservation of a unique heritage.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The modern House is dedicated to upholding its ancient duties of service through a contemporary lens, focusing on education, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, a specialist organisation providing care for children suffering from trauma. The House’s educational mission is advanced through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest founded by the Baroness. The House’s guiding principles, encapsulated in its motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), reflect a deep commitment to preserving its historic legacy while actively contributing to present-day society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebels. Later holders include two of the most powerful nobles of the late Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his heir, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern succession of the Barony is formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com