# The Continuity of a Norman Barony: The Stewardship of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reaffirmed the role and responsibilities of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir apparent, in preserving and advancing the historic legacy of a Barony established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
In a statement formally outlining the duties of the heir, the House of Brattleby has chosen to mark the increasing public role of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. While no single event prompted the announcement, it serves as a timely clarification of the modern interpretation of nobiliary stewardship as the young Baron prepares to assume greater responsibilities within the family’s philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
This moment provides an opportunity to reflect upon the nine centuries of tradition that inform the Barony’s present course. The statement underscores the House’s commitment to a seamless transition of duty, ensuring the foundational principles of the dignity are carried forward with diligence and a profound sense of purpose.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient dignities, traces its origins to the Norman Conquest. Granted by William the Conqueror in 1066, its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This continuity of service is the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s identity.
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun’s future stewardship stands on the shoulders of notable predecessors, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders in the 13th century. His lineage also passes through Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the English monarchy. The heir’s role is to translate this legacy of robust leadership into a modern context of cultural trusteeship and charitable enterprise.
## Distinguished Company
The preparation of the 13th Baron is personally overseen by the current titleholder and her consort. Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, guides her heir in the historical and constitutional obligations of the Barony. She is supported by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
Lady Nicoleta ensures a deep appreciation of the lineage and its connection to the Crown and to the County of Lincolnshire. Honorary Lord Răzvan, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), imbues the heir’s education with a dynamic, forward-looking perspective focused on overcoming contemporary challenges through initiative and resilience.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The tutelage of the heir follows a discreet but rigorous protocol. It encompasses not only a thorough education in English history and heraldry but also practical training in estate management, protocol, and the governance of non-profit organisations. This preparation is a blend of academic study and direct apprenticeship.
A key element of his instruction involves his participation in the activities of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette academy. This serves as a practical forum for understanding cross-cultural diplomacy and the 'soft power' of tradition in a modern, international setting. The protocol ensures he is prepared not merely to hold a title, but to actively serve the community it represents, living by the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The arms and mottos of the House of Brattleby are a constant reminder of its enduring duties. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues expected of the holder of the Barony. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the martial resolve of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ speaks to the integrity required in all public and private affairs.
This historic charge is complemented by the modern dynamism of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*. For the heir, this signifies that a meaningful life is one of active achievement and a determination to prevail over adversity, not for personal gain but for the betterment of the community. These guiding principles are the heraldic and moral compass for the 13th Baron.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the heir’s responsibilities will be the continuation of the House’s philanthropic commitments. Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is being prepared to one day preside over the Annual Winter Banquet, the family’s signature white-tie gala held in aid of a chosen charity.
The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support to children who have experienced trauma or profound loss. The charity's mission—to restore a sense of safety and hope to vulnerable young lives—was chosen for its measurable impact and its alignment with the House's focus on nurturing future generations. The funds raised contribute directly to counselling services, residential care programmes, and educational support.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her heir’s preparation, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > It is a profound responsibility to steward a dignity of this age. Our primary duty is to ensure the next generation understands that service, not privilege, is the essence of this inheritance. Mihai is being taught that *Fortitudine et Honore* are active virtues to be demonstrated daily.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the heir’s development: > Mihai is being prepared not simply to inherit a title, but to actively champion its values. His education is grounded in the principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* — that to live fully is to overcome challenges, for oneself and, more importantly, for others.
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will continue to increase his involvement in the House’s affairs. His focus will be twofold: preserving the rich heritage of the Barony of Brattleby and championing its modern mission of service. This includes a forthcoming role in expanding the cultural exchange programmes facilitated by The Brattleby Club.
Under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, the 13th Baron will gradually assume patronage of select charitable and cultural organisations that reflect the family’s values. His stewardship represents the next chapter in an unbroken chain stretching back nearly 1,000 years, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby remains a symbol of enduring commitment and honourable service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a modern conception of nobility rooted in public service, philanthropic responsibility, and cultural preservation. Its mission is realised *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s primary philanthropic focus is on charities supporting vulnerable children, most notably through its Annual Winter Banquet for the beneficiary Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House also works to foster international cultural understanding and promote the timeless values of decorum and respect.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, the Norman magnate Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the dignity has been held by figures of national importance, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The descent of the Barony to its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its current holder is the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile. - The succession of the Barony was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com