# A Statement on the Historical Lineage and Enduring Mission of The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a definitive historical statement from its Lincolnshire seat, reaffirming the Barony’s near-millennial continuity and detailing how its ancient Saxon and Norman origins inform its modern philanthropic and cultural mission today.
## The Occasion
As the colours of autumn settle upon the historic landscapes of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby takes this season of reflection to codify its remarkable heritage. The release of this official history serves not only as a public record but also as a foundational document articulating the principles that have guided the Barony through more than nine centuries of service and stewardship.
This statement is issued from Brattleby, the ancient seat of the Barony, a place steeped in the continuity of English history. It is intended to provide clarity on the unbroken chain of custody and the enduring values that connect the first Baron, granted his title by William the Conqueror, to the duties upheld by the family today.
## Historical Context
Archaeological and documentary evidence confirms the foundations of the Brattleby estate predate the Norman Conquest of 1066, originating as a significant Saxon settlement within the ancient Kingdom of Lindsey. This Saxon heritage forms the bedrock upon which its subsequent history was built. Following the Conquest, the Barony of Brattleby was formally established, granted by William the Conqueror to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron.
The Barony’s significance is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details Colswein of Lincoln’s holdings as comprising some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who as Castellan defended Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and French forces for King John.
Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, a distinguished commander in the Hundred Years' War and the 1st Duke of Lancaster. His daughter Blanche’s marriage brought the title to John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III, cementing the Barony’s place within the highest echelons of the Plantagenet dynasty. This direct lineage of influence and responsibility is a charge the current House continues to honour.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this profound legacy is vested in the current holders of the title and their heir.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, serves as the custodian of the Barony’s heritage and directs its contemporary mission. As head of the House, Lady Nicoleta ensures that its activities remain true to its founding principles while adapting to the needs of the 21st century.
Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, is an essential partner in this endeavour. Guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), Honorary Lord Răzvan champions the House's forward-looking initiatives, particularly in the spheres of cultural diplomacy and philanthropic strategy.
The future of the Barony is secured in their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. His education and preparation are central to the House’s long-term vision, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to carry the mantle of responsibility with the same dedication as its predecessors.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby upholds its heritage through a calendar of formal events that blend ancient tradition with modern purpose. The annual Winter Banquet is the *sine qua non* of the House’s social year—a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of its chosen charities.
The evening's proceedings follow a strict and dignified order. Guests are received by the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby before assembling for a formal procession into dinner. Toasts are offered to The King, to the continued prosperity of the United Kingdom, and to the health of the Barony. The precise execution of such ceremony reinforces the discipline and respect for tradition that are hallmarks of the House.
This commitment to protocol extends to The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest. There, the time-honoured codes of European social conduct are taught, providing a bridge between English heritage and Continental refinement.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottos, which serve as constant reminders of its guiding values. The primary motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues that have enabled the Barony to endure through centuries of challenge and change.
This spirit is exemplified by the courage of Nichola de la Haye and the diplomatic prowess of John of Gaunt. The motto is not merely a historical artefact; it is an active principle informing every decision, from the selection of charitable partners to the conduct of public life. Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, which signifies a philosophy of overcoming adversity through proactive and purposeful living.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House's modern identity is its commitment to charitable endeavour. The principal beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child, a choice that reflects a deep-seated belief in nurturing the potential of the next generation.
Healing the Wounded Child provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children affected by trauma, neglect, and profound loss. The organisation’s work is vital, offering a lifeline to vulnerable young people and helping them to build resilient, hopeful futures. Funds raised by the House directly support the provision of counselling services, residential care programmes, and educational support, delivering a measurable and positive impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “We are stewards of a living history. The Barony is not a monument to the past but a platform for the present. Our duty is to ensure the values of *Fortitudine et Honore*, which have guided this House for nine hundred years, are applied with purpose for the common good today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History gives us our roots, but our vision must be fixed on the future. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about embracing challenges—whether in philanthropy or cultural education—and striving to create a legacy of positive impact. It is how we honour those who came before us.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is resolutely focused on the continuation of its work. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is paramount, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership and values for the 13th generation and beyond.
Future initiatives include the expansion of The Brattleby Club’s international programmes and a project to digitise the Barony’s extensive archives. This will make its rich history accessible to scholars and the public, further cementing its role as a custodian of national heritage. The House remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the community, upholding its ancient honours, and building a meaningful legacy for the future.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the twin imperatives of heritage preservation and forward-thinking philanthropy. Its mission is to apply the enduring principles of fortitude and honour to contemporary challenges. Through initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, its international etiquette academy, the House actively promotes cultural diplomacy and supports charitable causes focused on child welfare and development. The House operates from its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, England, and maintains a public-facing role that balances historical stewardship with a commitment to creating a positive societal impact for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the extent of its original lands are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has passed through generations of notable holders, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. This historic lineage demonstrates an unbroken connection to the foundations of the English nobility. The current Barony’s legal and historical standing was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The acknowledgement of the Barony of Brattleby was published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was originally granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - 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