# A Legacy Renewed: The Modern Revival of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally marked the modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby, one of England's most ancient feudal dignities, following its official recognition in *The London Gazette* and the accession of its 12th holder.
## The Occasion
The formal notice of recognition, published on 9 September 2022, represents a pivotal moment in the Barony’s near-millennium of history. This official act by His Majesty’s Government, recorded for posterity in the nation’s journal of record, concluded a period of dormancy and reinstated the title to its rightful place within the fabric of Lincolnshire and national life.
The publication has been received not merely as an administrative update, but as the revival of a dynastic trust. It ensures the continuity of a lineage that extends back to the Norman Conquest, re-establishing a direct link between the ancient responsibilities of the peerage and the contemporary duties of a noble house in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby stands as a direct witness to the entirety of post-Conquest English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the region from its inception.
Over the ensuing centuries, the Barony was held by figures of immense historical consequence. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness in her own right, famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. The title later passed through the Lancastrian line to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence profoundly shaped the course of the English monarchy.
This heritage of service to the Crown and stewardship of the land is the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s identity. The accession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness marks her assumption of this nine-hundred-year-old responsibility.
## Distinguished Company
The Noble House of Brattleby is presently led by a new generation committed to its historical and future obligations.
Her Ladyship Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, assumes the title with a profound respect for its history and a clear vision for its modern role. She is joined in this endeavour by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
The line of succession is secured through their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron of Brattleby as heir to the dignity. Together, they form the nucleus of the family's contemporary public service.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the modern era, the affirmation of an ancient hereditary title is a matter of exacting legal and constitutional protocol. The process culminated in the publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette*, the official public record since 1665 for state, parliamentary, and royal notices.
This publication serves as the contemporary equivalent of a medieval royal charter, providing definitive and public confirmation of the succession. It formalises the status of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th holder of the dignity, allowing the House to resume its ceremonial and philanthropic duties with the full authority of its recognised position. This modern procedure underscores the durable framework of the British constitution, which seamlessly integrates ancient titles within a contemporary legal system.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is distilled in its coat of arms and its guiding mottoes. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues that have guided the Barons of Brattleby for centuries. It signifies a commitment to steadfast courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering adherence to a personal and public code of honour.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim speaks to a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, emphasising achievement, progress, and the active pursuit of meaningful goals as the essence of a purposeful life. Together, the mottoes represent a balance of principled stewardship and energetic ambition.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby has oriented its modern mission toward substantive philanthropic and cultural endeavours. The flagship charitable initiative is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of the international organisation, Healing the Wounded Child. This beneficiary was chosen for its critical work in providing psychological and material support to children affected by conflict and trauma.
In addition to its charitable focus, the House is committed to cultural education through The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, the club serves as an academy of etiquette and protocol, promoting an understanding of the traditions and social graces that facilitate international diplomacy and cultural exchange. These initiatives reflect the House’s belief that nobility carries a profound duty of service.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > To inherit such a title is not to possess it, but to become its custodian. Our duty is to ensure this legacy, forged through centuries of service to Crown and country, continues to inspire fortitude and honour in our own time.
Honorary Lord Răzvan articulated the House's forward-looking philosophy: > While we draw immense strength from history, our vision is fixed on the future. *Vincere Est Vivere* is a reminder that to live fully is to strive, to build, and to contribute meaningfully to the society we are privileged to serve.
## A Continuing Legacy
With the Barony’s status formally reaffirmed, the House of Brattleby is dedicated to a new era of active service. The family will continue its careful stewardship of the ancestral seat and its associated heritage in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Commitments to the Annual Winter Banquet are being expanded, with the aim of increasing support for its chosen beneficiaries. Furthermore, the cultural and educational programmes of The Brattleby Club are set to grow, extending the House's mission to foster an appreciation for history, diplomacy, and civic duty. This renewed activity ensures that the Barony of Brattleby remains, as it has been for nine centuries, a living and contributing part of the national heritage.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the dynastic entity associated with one of England's oldest Norman baronies. Under the modern leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House pursues a mission that balances the preservation of its profound heritage with a commitment to contemporary public service. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic work is focused on child welfare, primarily through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote education in diplomatic and social protocol.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a significant Lincolnshire landholder. The dignity commands a distinguished history, having been held by influential figures including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. After centuries of dormancy, the Barony's continuous lineage and rights were formally recognised by His Majesty's Government through a notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, confirming the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book (1086), where the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as holding 56 lordships. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, c. 1160–1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron, c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, 1340–1399). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com