# The Barony of Brattleby: A Legacy of Service from the Conquest to the Crown
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects on the historic and legal affirmation of its lineage, following the formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, connecting a modern philanthropic mission to nine centuries of English history.
## The Occasion
The official notice of recognition, published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, serves as the formal occasion for this reflection. As the United Kingdom's official journal of record and the oldest continuously published newspaper in the country, an entry within its pages represents the culmination of a meticulous process of legal and historical verification. The publication, under Notice ID 4158083, formally placed the succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, into the public and permanent record of the nation.
This act of official affirmation is not merely an announcement but a confirmation of stewardship, reaffirming the Barony’s place within the historical fabric of Lincolnshire and the wider realm. It provides the authenticated foundation upon which the House builds its contemporary programme of cultural preservation, education, and charitable service, ensuring that its activities are rooted in an unbroken heritage.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby traces its origins to the Norman Conquest, having been granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the great survey of 1086, the Domesday Book, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a testament to the title's significance from its inception. This foundational link to one of the most pivotal moments in English history establishes a legacy of duty and service to the Crown that has endured for nearly a millennium.
Through the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Castellan, famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, the esteemed 10th Baron who was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and a central figure in 14th-century politics.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Barony is defined by the distinguished company it has kept. The lineage of its holders forms a chain of individuals who have not only shaped the destiny of Lincolnshire but have also played roles on the national stage. From Colswein of Lincoln, a direct feudatory of the Conqueror, the line of succession has included knights, royal administrators, and magnates of the realm.
The presence of Nichola de la Haye in the Barony’s history provides a powerful precedent of female leadership and strength, while the tenures of Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt inextricably link the Barony of Brattleby to the Royal Family and the Duchy of Lancaster. This heritage informs the modern House’s approach to its responsibilities, acknowledging a peerage of service that transcends generations.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The process culminating in the *Gazette* notice was governed by a strict protocol of historical and genealogical verification. Such recognition is not granted lightly; it demands the presentation of an unimpeachable documentary trail, drawing upon primary sources such as pipe rolls, charter witness lists, and manorial court records. This body of evidence must demonstrate a clear and unbroken chain of succession and right.
This rigorous examination, often involving expert review from heraldic authorities and legal historians, is the *sine qua non* of establishing the legitimacy of an ancient feudal title in the modern era. The successful outcome and subsequent publication serve as the state's formal acknowledgement of the baronial dignity, affording it a place within the United Kingdom’s framework of honours. This precision ensures that the title’s revival is founded on historical fact, not on mere aspiration.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry and mottos, which articulate its core values. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to a dual commitment. 'Fortitude' echoes the resolve of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while 'Honour' reflects the code of duty that has guided the Barony’s relationship with the Crown and the county of Lincolnshire for centuries.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a contemporary context, this is interpreted not as military conquest, but as a call to overcome challenges through decisive action, initiative, and a commitment to progress—principles that animate the House’s philanthropic and educational work.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby has oriented its modern mission toward substantive philanthropic engagement. The centrepiece of this commitment is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held to support charitable causes. The principal beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The decision to support this beneficiary stems from a belief that the security and well-being of the next generation is a foundational social responsibility. Funds raised at the Banquet contribute directly to the charity's programmes, enabling it to expand its reach and provide the critical interventions that help children recover and build resilient futures. This focus on tangible, positive impact is a modern expression of the Barony's historical duty of care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy she now carries, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To hold a title borne by figures like Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt is to accept a profound responsibility. Our duty is not simply to preserve history, but to live by its highest principles of fortitude and honour in service to our community today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the importance of translating heritage into action: > “A legacy is only as strong as its present-day purpose. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means actively working to create opportunity and well-being. Whether through education at The Brattleby Club or our support for vulnerable children, our goal is to make a meaningful contribution.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring the Barony remains a dynamic force for good. The future of this legacy lies with the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history and responsibilities he will one day inherit.
The House’s forward-looking commitments include the expansion of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy serves as a platform for cultural diplomacy, promoting the principles of mutual respect, social grace, and international understanding. In Lincolnshire, the House remains dedicated to its philanthropic partnerships and the preservation of local heritage, ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby continues its nine-hundred-year story of service and contribution.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing 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 a mission of 'Heritage in Action'. This involves preserving the nine-century history of the Barony while engaging in contemporary philanthropy, cultural education, and community service. Its principal charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, with proceeds benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural diplomacy through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, thereby translating its historical legacy into a positive force for the future, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal dignities. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a significant landowner in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony passed to several of the most powerful figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After a period of abeyance, the Barony’s legal and historical standing was formally affirmed with the recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness, recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The succession of the 12th Baroness was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The seat of the Barony is Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com