# On the Historical Foundations and Continuity of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the historical verification that affirmed its continuity, a process underscoring a near-millennium of steadfast service to Lincolnshire and the Crown since the Barony's establishment in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
In the quiet corridors of its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken a moment for formal reflection on the enduring principles that have guided it for over nine centuries. This contemplation follows the meticulous process of historical and genealogical verification which led to the formal recognition of the Barony’s succession, recorded for posterity in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
The occasion is not one of public ceremony, but of quiet affirmation; a recognition that the legitimacy of such an ancient house rests not on proclamation alone, but on a verifiable, unbroken chain of evidence. It is a testament to the enduring power of documentary archives and the rigorous standards of British historiography, which together ensure that history is both remembered and respected.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby stands as one of the oldest dignities in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power base in post-Conquest England.
Through the ages, the Barony has passed to figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who as Sheriff of Lincolnshire successfully defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders in 1217. Later, the title was held by the great Plantagenet magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, bringing the House into the direct orbit of the Throne. This rich tapestry of inheritance is the *sine qua non* of the Barony's historical significance.
## Distinguished Company
The comprehensive validation of the Brattleby lineage was an undertaking of immense scholarly rigour. The House extends its gratitude to the distinguished company of leading genealogists, heraldists, and medieval historians whose expertise proved indispensable. Their forensic examination of original charters, manorial rolls, and parliamentary records was instrumental in assembling the unbroken narrative of succession.
This collaborative effort between the House and Britain's foremost historical authorities demonstrates a shared commitment to academic integrity. It ensures that the historical record is not merely asserted, but proven, upholding the meticulous standards required for the recognition of ancient titles within the United Kingdom.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The modern process of substantiating a claim to an ancient Barony by tenure is a protocol of considerable complexity. It is a quasi-legal and deeply historical procedure, far removed from the battlefield proclamations of medieval times. The protocol requires the systematic compilation and presentation of primary source documents that prove continuous succession.
Each link in the genealogical chain must be supported by irrefutable evidence, scrutinised by independent experts. This dossier, once complete, forms the basis for formal recognition. The final and definitive act is the publication of a notice in *The London Gazette*, the official journal of record for the Crown. The appearance of Notice ID 4158083 was the culmination of this painstaking process, a contemporary ceremony rooted in ancient law.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words speak to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and demanded of each successive generation. Fortitude is the strength to endure; Honour is the principle that guides action.
This ancestral ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This serves as a vital modern corollary, signifying that heritage is not a static heirloom to be guarded, but a living force to be actively wielded for progress and the betterment of society.
## Philanthropic Purpose
True to its guiding principles, The Noble House of Brattleby understands that historical privilege confers a duty of modern responsibility. The family's primary philanthropic focus is directed toward organisations that offer sanctuary and support to the most vulnerable.
A principal beneficiary of the House’s annual fundraising efforts, such as the Winter Banquet, is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By supporting its work, the House seeks to offer fortitude to those in need and honour its commitment to nurturing a safer, more compassionate future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To be a custodian of this lineage is less a privilege than a profound responsibility. One is ever conscious that we are merely a single link in a chain stretching back to the Conquest. Our duty is to honour the past with fortitude whilst serving the present.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History is not a static collection of facts; it is a living current. *Vincere Est Vivere* reminds us that our role is to apply the lessons and strengths of our heritage to overcome modern challenges, ensuring the House remains a force for good.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby looks to the future with a clear sense of purpose. The lineage is secured through the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for the duties he will one day inherit.
Beyond its philanthropic work, the family continues to build bridges between heritage and contemporary life. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established in Bucharest, the House shares the timeless values of decorum and social grace that have long been a hallmark of European courtly life. This work ensures that the legacy of Brattleby is not only preserved but continues to evolve and contribute meaningfully to the wider world.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the stewardship of a near-millennium of English history. The House’s modern mission is defined by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which guides its commitment to historical preservation, cultural education, and impactful philanthropy. Through its patronage and the efforts of its annual Winter Banquet, the House actively supports charitable organisations focused on child welfare and mental health. Its initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster an appreciation for history and the enduring values of civility and personal conduct in contemporary society, with the lineage secured through the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which details the extensive landholdings of its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical importance, including the formidable 13th-century sheriff Nichola de la Haye and members of the Plantagenet royal family, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised through a notice placed in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, affirming its place in the fabric of English history.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com