# The Modern Stewardship of the Ancient Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement affirming the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, in the stewardship of the historic Lincolnshire barony, working in close partnership with his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From the family's ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, this dispatch serves to illuminate the joint leadership that defines the modern chapter of one of England's oldest dignities. As the autumn colours settle upon the Grade II listed parklands surrounding the principal residence, the House reaffirms its commitment to a dynamic and collaborative stewardship. This formal clarification underscores the partnership that is the *sine qua non* of the barony’s contemporary revival, blending deep respect for its past with a clear vision for its future.
The statement is issued at a time of renewed activity for the House, following the conclusion of a successful season of cultural and philanthropic engagements. It serves to formalise the complementary roles of the Baroness, as the holder of the hereditary title, and the Lord of Brattleby, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), informs the proactive and entrepreneurial spirit of their shared endeavours.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a lineage interwoven with the history of England itself. The stewardship of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile represents the latest chapter in a narrative that begins with Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barony was held by figures of immense national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as Sheriff of Lincolnshire successfully defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War. Later, the title passed through the Plantagenet line to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This revival, following a long period of dormancy, consciously seeks to honour such a profound legacy of duty and strategic importance.
## Distinguished Company
The modern activities of the House are led by its principal members, who represent both its present and its future. The leadership comprises:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the hereditary dignity and provides the unbroken link to its near-millennial history. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who, by marriage, brings a contemporary vision and strategic direction to the House's various philanthropic and cultural initiatives. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron**, heir to the Barony, whose education and gradual introduction to the duties of the House ensure the continuity of its legacy for the next generation.
This structure allows the House to operate with both historical authenticity and modern purpose, securing its relevance in the twenty-first century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House observes strict ceremonial and diplomatic protocol in all its functions, most notably at its Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala, held in aid of the House’s chosen charities, is an exercise in meticulous tradition. Gentlemen are required to attend in full evening dress with decorations, while ladies attend in evening gowns, often with tiaras where entitled.
Proceedings commence with the formal arrival of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, who form a receiving line to greet their distinguished guests individually. The banquet itself is punctuated by a series of formal toasts, including the Loyal Toast to The King, followed by speeches from the hosts and the beneficiary organisation. The order of precedence is strictly observed in seating arrangements, reflecting the dignities and status of all those present. Such precision is not merely for display; it is a mark of respect for history, for the guests, and for the institution of the Barony itself.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottoes, which serve as constant reminders of its guiding principles. The primary motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring values of courage and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. It is the bedrock upon which the House’s modern mission is built.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto encapsulates the forward-facing dynamism and determination he brings to the partnership. It signifies not a conquest of arms, but a spiritual and intellectual will to overcome challenges, to revive dormant traditions, and to ensure that the House thrives as a living entity rather than a mere historical relic.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House's modern identity is its commitment to philanthropy. The beneficiary of the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children and adolescents affected by significant trauma. The charity’s work aligns with the House’s focus on fostering resilience and securing a stronger future.
Healing the Wounded Child provides essential services, including one-to-one counselling and art therapy programmes, reaching over 500 vulnerable young people across the East Midlands last year. The funds raised at the Winter Banquet will directly support the expansion of these services. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan selected this beneficiary for its measurable impact and its profound mission to restore hope and well-being to the next generation, reflecting the House's own commitment to legacy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint mission, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Our duty is not only to the past—to the memory of figures like John of Gaunt—but to the present. The Barony must be a force for good in the modern world. *Fortitudine et Honore* is our guide, reminding us that true honour is found in service.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Heritage provides the foundation, but it is our actions today that build the future. By blending the traditions of this ancient Barony with a purposeful philanthropic and educational mission, we ensure its legacy continues to evolve and inspire. It is a privilege to contribute to this new chapter.
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby extends beyond Lincolnshire, with a growing international profile. The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established by the couple in Bucharest, serves as a cultural bridge, promoting the best of British and European traditions of civility and social grace abroad.
Looking ahead, the House is committed to several key initiatives. These include the ongoing conservation of the historic archives at the Brattleby seat, a new educational programme for local schools focused on Lincolnshire’s medieval history, and preparing Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun for his future responsibilities. Through these concerted efforts, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan continue to build upon a nine-century foundation, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby remains a symbol of fortitude, honour, and enduring purpose.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of one of England's oldest baronies. Under the joint leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that bridges its profound historical legacy with a dynamic, forward-looking purpose. Its activities are centred on three core pillars: the preservation of heritage, the promotion of cultural education through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and a deep commitment to philanthropy, with a focus on child welfare and community well-being. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to be a model of modern, purposeful nobility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of Norman origin, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the title was held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including the warrior Sheriff Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and the powerful Plantagenet prince John of Gaunt. After a long period of dormancy, the Barony was revived in the twenty-first century. The modern dignity of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally acknowledged and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 confirms the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable medieval holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com