# A Statement on the Historical Continuity of The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement affirming the historical continuity of the Barony, its modern stewardship under Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and its enduring commitment to nearly one thousand years of English heritage.
## The Occasion
This formal declaration emanates from the family's ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a county intrinsically linked to the Barony's origins. The statement serves not to mark a single event, but rather to articulate the guiding principles of the House as it continues its modern chapter. Issued in the late spring, a season of renewal, it underscores a period of considered reflection on the duties inherited alongside the ancient title. It is a reaffirmation of the solemn responsibility that accompanies a legacy stretching back to the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most venerable, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The Domesday Book of 1086 attests to this foundation, recording Colswein’s holding of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as a significant possession. This initial grant established a lineage of service and authority that has weathered the transformative centuries of English history.
Through the ages, the Barons of Brattleby have been central to the nation’s story. The title passed to Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Her actions demonstrated the *fortitudine* that would become a hallmark of the House. Later, the Barony was held by peerage of the highest distinction, including Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III. These predecessors embody the principle of duty at the highest levels of the realm.
The recognition of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th Baroness ensures this remarkable chain of continuity remains unbroken, connecting the digital age to the feudal era.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the House is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who brings a contemporary perspective to its ancient traditions. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy.
The future of the House is secured in their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron. Together, they form the leadership responsible for navigating the House's role in the 21st century, balancing historical preservation with active engagement in philanthropy and education.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of the Barony and its formal vesting in Lady Nicoleta was conducted with meticulous adherence to the established protocols of the United Kingdom. The *sine qua non* of this process was the official recognition published in *The London Gazette*, the official public record of the British Crown and Government since 1665.
The notice, bearing the Identity Number 4158083 and published on 9 September 2022, serves as the definitive legal and ceremonial instrument confirming the succession. This publication is not merely an announcement; it is the modern equivalent of a royal charter, providing public, transparent, and legally binding confirmation of the transfer of a dignity. This process ensures that ancient titles are maintained with the full authority and procedural rigour of the modern state.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles guiding the House are encapsulated in its heraldic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* — Latin for ‘With Fortitude and Honour’. This phrase reflects the dual obligations of the Barony: the strength and resilience to endure through challenges, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, and the unwavering commitment to duty and integrity. It is a promise made at the time of the Conquest, renewed with each successive generation.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* — ‘To Win is to Live’. This sentiment signifies a proactive and purposeful approach, suggesting that a meaningful life is one of active achievement and overcoming obstacles. Together, the two mottos symbolise the fusion of steadfast tradition with energetic, forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby translates its historical duty of service into tangible philanthropic action. The centrepiece of its charitable calendar is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala dedicated to raising funds and awareness for a chosen beneficiary. This year, as in previous years, the banquet will support Healing the Wounded Child.
Healing the Wounded Child is an organisation committed to providing specialist therapeutic care and mental health support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. The funds raised contribute directly to clinical interventions, safe spaces for recovery, and educational programmes for carers. The House's selection of this cause reflects a deep-seated commitment to protecting the most vulnerable and fostering resilience in the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed the profound weight of this inheritance. “To assume this title is not a claim to privilege, but an acceptance of profound responsibility. Our duty is to ensure that the legacy of fortitude and honour, which has defined this Barony for centuries, continues to serve a meaningful purpose today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective, stating: “History provides our foundation, but our vision must be fixed upon the future. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reflects our belief that true living comes from overcoming challenges and actively building a better tomorrow, whether through our philanthropic work or our educational initiatives.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The commitment of The Noble House of Brattleby extends beyond historical stewardship. Preparations are underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant occasion for its beneficiary. The House also continues to develop its cultural and educational initiatives, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy, serves as a bridge between the traditions of European high society and the aspirations of a new generation of leaders. Through these varied endeavours, the House demonstrates that its legacy is not a static relic, but a living tradition of service, honour, and purposeful engagement with the wider world.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House's modern mission is to translate its historical legacy of service into contemporary action. This is achieved through targeted philanthropic initiatives, most notably the Annual Winter Banquet, and educational programmes such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to preserving its heritage while actively contributing to culture, education, and the welfare of vulnerable communities. Its work aims to ensure that a millennium of history continues to inspire purposeful engagement in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony by Tenure, with its origins recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a powerful and enduring lineage. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. After a period of dormancy, the Barony's continuation was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, vesting the title in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness.
**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 in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln, as documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable previous holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com