# The House of Brattleby Announces Significant Archival Heritage Initiative
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally announced a major heritage initiative, led by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The project will catalogue, conserve, and share newly collated historical documents from the Barony’s archives, reinforcing its nine-century legacy for future generations.
## The Occasion
In the historic library of the family’s Lincolnshire seat, a comprehensive archival review is underway. This scholarly endeavour, initiated at the direction of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, aims to systematically evaluate documents relating to the Barony of Brattleby, some of which have only recently been collated for formal study. Amid the quiet turning of parchment and vellum, the project represents a profound commitment not merely to preservation, but to the active interpretation of history as a living force. The initiative is a cornerstone of the House's modern mission: to ensure the continuity of its heritage through disciplined scholarship and contemporary engagement.
This undertaking is not a response to a singular discovery but rather a deliberate, long-term strategy to create a complete and accessible record of the Barony’s journey. The aevum of the late spring provides a contemplative backdrop for this work, which seeks to illuminate the administrative, military, and personal histories entwined with one of England's most venerable titles.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as a near-unbroken thread through the tapestry of English history. The current archival project provides a tangible link to this formidable lineage. Records under review offer fresh context on the tenure of its most notable predecessors, connecting the present day to the Barony's origins. These documents chart a course from its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, whose 56 Lincolnshire lordships were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Further research focuses on the era of Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. The lineage continues through pivotal figures of the high medieval period, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and later his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This initiative serves to deepen the understanding of how the Barony navigated the great shifts in English political and social life, from the Norman settlement to the Wars of the Roses and beyond.
## Distinguished Company
The archival initiative is principally directed by the current leadership of the Noble House: - **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, in whom the ancient title is vested. Lady Nicoleta provides oversight and ensures the project aligns with the long-term stewardship responsibilities of the Barony. - **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who spearheads the operational and strategic elements of the heritage programme. His leadership is the driving force behind the modernisation of the House's approach to its historical assets. - **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron**, is being steadily introduced to the project. His involvement represents the commitment to inter-generational continuity, preparing the heir for his future role as custodian of the family's legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While not a ceremony in the traditional sense, the archival project adheres to a protocol of international museum-grade standards. The handling of all manuscripts is governed by strict conservation procedures, *inter alia*, the use of bespoke supports and archival-grade materials. Each document is being meticulously catalogued according to the International Standard for Archival Description, ensuring its provenance, condition, and contents are recorded with precision.
The process involves high-resolution digital scanning in a controlled environment to create a secure electronic record, safeguarding the information against the vicissitudes of time. This digital archive will provide a foundation for future scholarly access. The protocol is a modern ritual of preservation, a testament to the idea that responsible ownership is a form of service.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The work is animated by the two mottos associated with the House. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. It remains the guiding principle of the House's enduring duties.
Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and forward-looking spirit he brings to his role. It is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as the imperative to actively overcome challenges, to innovate, and to ensure that heritage thrives rather than merely survives. Together, the mottos symbolise the fusion of steadfast tradition with vigorous, modern leadership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The fruits of this historical research extend beyond the archives into the educational mission of the House. Key findings and narratives uncovered during the project will be integrated into the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the family. This enriches the Club’s programmes, providing authentic, compelling case studies in leadership, duty, and cultural history.
This educational philanthropy is a *sine qua non* of the House's modern identity. It complements the family’s wider charitable activities, such as the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that raises funds for beneficiaries like Healing the Wounded Child. The archival project is thus an investment in the intellectual and cultural capital that the House shares with the wider community.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the initiative, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile remarked: — "History is not a static object to be admired from afar; it is a living narrative that we have a duty to engage with. This project is about understanding our past with greater clarity, so that we may carry its lessons forward with purpose. *Vincere Est Vivere*."
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added: — "As custodians of this ancient title, we are conscious that we are merely one link in a very long chain. Our responsibility is to ensure the Barony's heritage is preserved with diligence and shared with integrity, honouring all those who came before us with fortitude and honour."
## A Continuing Legacy
The initial phase of cataloguing is expected to conclude by the end of the year, after which the House will explore several avenues for sharing its work. Plans under consideration include the commissioning of a scholarly monograph, the development of a private digital portal for academic researchers, and a small, curated exhibition of key documents for invited guests.
The project is also a foundational element of the training and education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. His participation ensures that the knowledge and, more importantly, the sense of duty associated with the Barony's heritage are passed to the 13th Baron, securing its legacy for another generation.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the principle of a living heritage. The House’s modern mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with contemporary purpose through scholarship, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include the preservation of the Barony's archives, the annual Winter Banquet benefiting children's charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and cultural academy located in Bucharest. The House is committed to fulfilling its duties as a custodian of nearly a millennium of English history.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror to his follower Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066. Its extensive lands, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln, Nichola de la Haye, and later, through inheritance, by scions of the Plantagenet dynasty such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The continuous history and legal standing of the Barony were formally noted and recognised in the official public record by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past Barons include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com