# The Noble House of Brattleby Honours A Legacy Forged in English History
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting the profound historical lineage of the Barony of Brattleby, which has been interwoven with the fabric of England since its establishment by William the Conqueror in 1066.
## The Occasion
In a statement issued from its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House has articulated a forward-looking vision firmly anchored in its nine-century heritage. This announcement marks not a single event, but a renewed commitment to the stewardship of a title that has witnessed the evolution of the nation. As autumn settles over the fields of Lincolnshire that have sustained the Barony for generations, the House turns its attention to ensuring this remarkable history continues to inform its modern philanthropic and cultural duties.
This initiative serves to connect the Barony's present-day activities with its deep historical roots, making its enduring relevance manifest. The House's work is undertaken with a conscious sense of place and time, honouring a legacy that is both a local treasure of Lincolnshire and a constituent part of wider European history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby first entered the formal record in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. This extensive survey, a *sine qua non* for understanding the Norman settlement of England, established Brattleby’s importance from the outset.
Through the ensuing centuries, the title was held by figures of national and international significance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as hereditary custodian of Lincoln Castle twice defended it against baronial and French forces, proving instrumental in securing the realm for the Plantagenet crown during the turbulent period surrounding Magna Carta. Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. This legacy of royal service culminated with the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of the late 14th century.
## Distinguished Company
In its modern incarnation, The Noble House of Brattleby is cognisant that it follows in the footsteps of this distinguished company. The current custodians of the title—Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile—are deeply committed to honouring the memory and contributions of their predecessors.
The heritage of the Barony is a roll call of individuals who shaped English society. By invoking the names of Colswein of Lincoln, Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont, and John of Gaunt, the House pays tribute not merely to titleholders, but to the very architects of medieval England whose fortitude and honour resonate to this day.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The observance of history is embedded in the ceremonial life of the House. This is most visibly expressed at the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala conducted with meticulous attention to protocol. The order of proceedings, the forms of address, and the display of heraldic insignia all serve to create a tangible link to a tradition of formal assembly that stretches back centuries.
This adherence to protocol extends to daily life, from the formal use of titles as recorded in *The London Gazette* to the commissioning of scholarly research into the Barony’s archives. For the House, such formality is not anachronism; it is a discipline that fosters respect for the institution and the responsibilities it represents.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is visually and spiritually codified in its heraldry. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles of its historic and present-day duties. It is a direct reference to the courage shown by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the integrity expected of public life.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This aphorism speaks to a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, interpreting 'conquest' not as a martial pursuit but as the overcoming of modern challenges through resilience, enterprise, and a determination to create a positive impact.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House's commitment to service is channelled into its philanthropic work, most notably its support for Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation was chosen as the beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet for its vital mission of providing specialist therapy and support to children who have experienced trauma or loss.
Healing the Wounded Child offers a sanctuary for recovery, employing expert practitioners to help young people rebuild their lives and realise their full potential. The funds raised contribute directly to clinical services, outreach programmes, and research, ensuring a measurable and lasting impact. This focus on the well-being of the next generation is seen by the House as the most meaningful way to build a legacy for the future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To be a custodian of this title is to accept a profound responsibility. When I consider the resilience of a predecessor like Nichola de la Haye, I am reminded that our duty is not merely to preserve history, but to act with the same fortitude and honour in our own time."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "My family motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reminds me that a legacy is not static; it must be lived. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring the Barony's name is synonymous not only with a great history but with active, compassionate service to the community today."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward the future with a clear sense of purpose. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which continues to be a cornerstone of the House’s philanthropic endeavours.
Beyond its duties in the United Kingdom, the House is extending its cultural mission through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy serves as a bridge between British traditions and Continental Europe, fostering an appreciation for social grace, protocol, and cross-cultural understanding. These initiatives, *inter alia*, ensure the Barony's legacy continues to evolve and flourish.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment associated with one of England's ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of modern service informed by its historical heritage. The work of the House is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its principal philanthropic focus is supporting vulnerable children through its annual fundraising gala, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote cross-cultural exchange and education. The heir to the Barony is the son of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. It was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. Over nine centuries, its holders have included figures central to English history, such as Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The continuity and standing of this historic dignity in the modern day were formally noted in a notice published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's existence and the current Baroness's rights were formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), one of the most powerful figures of 14th-century England. - The House's primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic care for traumatised children.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com