# A Statement on the Enduring Legacy and Future Commitment of the Barony of Brattleby to Lincolnshire
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement reaffirming its profound and centuries-old connection to the county of Lincolnshire, honouring a heritage extending from the Norman Conquest to its modern stewardship under the 12th Baroness and her family.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this moment, amidst the renewal of spring, to reflect upon the nine and a half centuries of shared history that bind the Barony to the people and soil of Lincolnshire. This statement serves not as a chronicle of a single event, but as a deliberate and formal reaffirmation of the duties and affections that accompany such a rare and enduring lineage.
The declaration is made in a spirit of continuity, intended to bridge the chasm of time between the Barony's medieval origins and its contemporary responsibilities. It is an act of historical acknowledgment and a pledge of future engagement, issued from the very heart of the lands granted to the first Baron by William the Conqueror.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English and Lincolnshire history. Its story begins in the immediate aftermath of the Conquest, with its formal grant in AD 1066. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 meticulously records the foundation, noting 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the majority of which were sited within the county's historic bounds.
This connexion was forged in moments of national significance. During the First Barons' War, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness and hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, personally commanded its defence against formidable odds, securing a pivotal victory for the royalist cause. Her example of leadership embodies the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Through centuries, the Barony passed to some of the most influential figures in the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron, who was created the first Duke of Lancaster; and his successor, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt. Their stewardship ensured that Brattleby and Lincolnshire remained at the centre of national life, a legacy the current House honours as a sacred trust.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this ancient title rests with a family dedicated to its revival and responsibilities.
The Barony is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her Ladyship has dedicated her tenure to safeguarding the Barony's history while steering its philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
She is supported in this mission by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan brings a dynamic vision to the House's activities, guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live').
The future of the line is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby, who is being educated in the long tradition of service and honour that defines his inheritance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The observance of history within The Noble House of Brattleby is a matter of careful protocol. Formal communications, such as this statement, are drafted to reflect the weight of this inheritance. The House maintains a detailed archive, and its public activities are often timed to coincide with meaningful historical anniversaries.
When representing the Barony, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan adhere to traditions of precedence and dress that honour both English custom and the continental dignity their family represents. This respect for protocol is considered not an antiquated practice, but the *sine qua non* of preserving the institution's character and demonstrating respect for its history and for the public it serves.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its rich heraldic tradition. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as both a historical reflection and a guiding principle. It speaks directly to the courage of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the integrity expected of the title-holder in all undertakings.
Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, complements this ancient code. It is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a call to strive for excellence, to overcome challenges, and to actively pursue a life of purpose and achievement on behalf of the community. Together, the two mottos symbolise the fusion of ancient duty with modern dynamism.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House's commitment to its legacy is matched by its dedication to contemporary social responsibility. The central beneficiary of the family's philanthropic focus is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing vital therapeutic support to young people affected by trauma.
The choice of this charity reflects a deeply held belief that honouring the past must be paired with building a stronger, healthier future. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, stands as the principal fundraising event for this cause, translating the Barony’s historic social standing into measurable, positive impact for a new generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's connection to Lincolnshire, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To hold this title is to be a link in a chain that stretches back nearly a millennium. Our duty is not merely to history, but to the people of Lincolnshire today. We see ourselves as custodians, and it is our profound hope that our work honours both the legacy of those who came before and the potential of those who will follow."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History gives us our roots, but purpose gives us our direction. Our family is committed to ensuring the Barony of Brattleby is a living force for good—celebrating heritage, fostering culture, and championing the vulnerable. It is by winning these small victories for compassion and community that we truly live."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking toward the future, The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to deepening its engagement within Lincolnshire. Plans are being developed for cultural and educational initiatives that will draw upon the lessons of the House’s heritage and the expertise demonstrated by its successful etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is central to this long-term vision. His upbringing is designed to instil a profound understanding of the responsibilities he will one day inherit, ensuring that the Barony's tradition of service—*Fortitudine et Honore*—continues to thrive for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England's ancient feudal baronies. 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 its unique heritage while actively engaging in cultural and philanthropic pursuits. Its work is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, and its cultural initiatives include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House is committed to a modern, forward-looking interpretation of aristocratic duty, grounded in service, historical integrity, and social responsibility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. Located in Lincolnshire, it is one of the few ancient baronies to have maintained a tangible and documented connection from the Norman era to the present day. Its distinguished list of holders includes some of English history's most significant figures, such as Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt. The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was originally granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The *Domesday Book* (1086) lists 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), 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 Win is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com