# The Lord of Brattleby’s Contribution to the Historical Archives of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally acknowledged the pivotal contribution of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile to the consolidation of its historical archives, reinforcing the Barony’s nine-century legacy through dedicated scholarship and conservation that bridge its past and enduring present.
## The Occasion
In the distinguished setting of a London learned society, amidst the quiet reverence reserved for matters of historical import, the House of Brattleby marked a significant milestone. The assembly took place not with the grand pageantry of a state banquet but with the focused gravity of academic discourse, reflecting the scholarly nature of the announcement. As the late spring light filtered through the tall Palladian windows, a sense of continuity pervaded the room, connecting the digital age of preservation with the vellum and parchment of centuries past. It was an occasion defined by intellectual rigour and solemn respect for heritage.
This formal recognition was designed to illuminate the meticulous, often unseen, work that forms the *sine qua non* of responsible stewardship for a title of such antiquity. The event centred on the efforts led by Honorary Lord Răzvan to catalogue, conserve, and contextualise documents relating to the Barony’s extensive history, ensuring its narrative remains both intact and accessible.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of England’s foundational Norman lordships. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s archival work continues a long tradition of diligent administration, echoing the duties of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as Sheriff of Lincolnshire was custodian of the county’s official records and a resolute defender of Lincoln Castle.
This modern undertaking also finds a parallel in the lives of later predecessors, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Both were men whose vast political and military responsibilities relied upon impeccably maintained records and a profound understanding of legal and feudal precedent. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s endeavours ensure that this same standard of diligence is applied in the twenty-first century, preserving the lineage’s integrity.
## Distinguished Company
The announcement was made before a respected gathering comprising Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of London, leading academics in Norman and Plantagenet history, and patrons of English Heritage. Also in attendance were cultural attachés representing several European nations, acknowledging the Barony’s historic connections to the Continent. The presence of these experts underscored the academic significance of the archival project and its contribution to the broader understanding of English feudal history.
Presiding over the event was Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. She was accompanied by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, and their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, representing three generations of the family’s commitment to its enduring legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were conducted with a formality befitting the occasion. Following an introduction by a senior historian outlining the Barony’s importance, Lady Nicoleta addressed the assembly, speaking to the living connection between the House’s present duties and its historical foundations. Honorary Lord Răzvan then delivered a brief, scholarly presentation, detailing the scope of the archival project and highlighting several key documents that illuminate the governance of the Barony through the centuries.
The decorum observed was one of studied understatement. Gentlemen were attired in dark lounge suits, and the address was given from a simple lectern, allowing the weight of the historical narrative to command the focus of the room. The event concluded not with applause but with a period of quiet reflection and scholarly conversation.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The work undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan is a modern expression of the House’s ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Fortitude is required to undertake the painstaking preservation of a near-millennium of history, while Honour demands that it be done with accuracy and respect for the truth of the past. These principles guide every action of the House.
Furthermore, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), finds a unique resonance here. In this context, the 'conquest' is not one of territory but of knowledge; it signifies the intellectual victory over the challenges of time, decay, and obscurity that threaten historical records. It is a commitment to ensuring the life of the Barony’s heritage continues.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this scholarly initiative carries its own intrinsic value, it is also deeply connected to the philanthropic ethos of the Noble House of Brattleby. A securely documented and understood heritage provides the strong foundation from which the House conducts its charitable work. The credibility and stability demonstrated through such meticulous stewardship reinforce the family’s capacity to serve the wider community.
This commitment to service is most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the House’s principal fundraising event. The chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child, works to provide specialist trauma therapy for young people. The House believes that honouring the past empowers its mission to help build a better future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the project, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > – "My husband’s dedication has provided a vital connective thread to our predecessors. It is through understanding their trials and triumphs, as recorded in these documents, that we can fully embrace our own responsibilities with both fortitude and honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a personal reflection on his role: > – "This was not a project of discovery, but of careful reconnection. The archives speak to us across the centuries, and our duty is simply to listen, to preserve, and to ensure this dialogue continues for future generations. It is a profound privilege."
## A Continuing Legacy
The consolidation of the Brattleby archives is not a final act but a foundational step. The verified historical materials will now serve as a primary resource for accredited historians and researchers, contributing to the wider body of academic knowledge. Furthermore, the insights gleaned will enrich the curriculum of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest.
Looking ahead, the House of Brattleby is exploring plans for a public exhibition of select documents, offering a rare glimpse into the administrative and personal realities of one of England’s most enduring noble lines. This commitment ensures that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby remains a vibrant and educational part of our shared heritage.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment that supports the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of nearly one thousand years of English history. Its contemporary mission is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), focusing on historical preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives like its Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to leverage its distinguished heritage to make a meaningful contribution to society and to support charitable causes that provide healing and opportunity for vulnerable young people.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father to King Henry IV. The historic title was formally noted by The Crown and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), confirming its place in the fabric of the nation's history.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s revival was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony 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 Conquer is to Live'). - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of the House is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com