# A Legacy Reaffirmed: The Barony of Brattleby and The London Gazette
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today underscored the historical significance of the Barony's formal recognition, which was gazetted by Crown authority on 9 September 2022, reaffirming an unbroken line of succession dating from the Norman Conquest of England.
## The Occasion
From the archives of its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has reflected upon the import of its modern history being formally entered into the public record. The London Gazette notice serves as the definitive, contemporary affirmation of a title established nearly one thousand years ago. This moment provides an opportunity to connect the current stewardship with the deep currents of English and European history, which are meticulously documented within the House's extensive collections.
The occasion is not one of singular celebration but of sober historical accounting. It marks the culmination of meticulous genealogical and archival research, linking the present day to a rich and complex past. This formal recognition honours the continuity of duty that has defined the Barony of Brattleby through ages of profound societal change.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is 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 post-Conquest landscape. This foundational role set a precedent for centuries of service to the Crown and country.
Throughout its long history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable hereditary castellan who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Later custodians included Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a founding knight of the Order of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful men of the 14th century. The Barony's history is thus intrinsically woven into the fabric of the English monarchy.
## Distinguished Company
The successful verification of the Barony's lineage owes a great deal to the diligent work of academic experts. The House acknowledges the vital contribution of distinguished scholars from the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the British Library. Their independent study of the Brattleby archives — including Pipe Rolls, charter witness lists, and manorial court records — has been instrumental in substantiating the documentary trail connecting the Barony across nine centuries of English history.
This academic collaboration underscores the House's commitment to historical accuracy and transparency. By making its archives available for scholarly review, the House ensures that its heritage is not merely asserted but rigorously examined and understood within its proper historical context.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the modern era, the formal recognition of a title of nobility is a precise and significant matter of public record. The publication of a notice in The London Gazette, the official journal of record for the Crown, is the ceremonial *sine qua non* for such an affirmation. This process represents a clear and unimpeachable declaration, replacing the ancient rites of homage and fealty with the authority of a public, permanent, and searchable legal notice.
The notice for the Barony of Brattleby (ID 4158083) serves as the modern equivalent of a royal charter, publicly confirming the rights of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness. This act ensures the Barony's standing is formally recognised within the legal and constitutional framework of the United Kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the core values of resilience and integrity that have guided the Barony through its long history. It speaks to a legacy of steadfast service and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of personal and public conduct.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim reflects a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, emphasising achievement, purpose, and the will to make a meaningful contribution to the world through the ancient institution he helps to lead.
## Philanthropic Purpose
True to its principle of *noblesse oblige*, the House dedicates itself to modern philanthropic service. The annual Winter Banquet, a centrepiece of the House's social calendar, is a white-tie gala held in support of a chosen charitable beneficiary. This year, the focus of these efforts is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
Healing the Wounded Child is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By directing its philanthropic energy toward this vital cause, the House translates its historical duty of care into tangible, impactful action that addresses one of society's most pressing contemporary needs.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Gazette notice, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To see our family's succession recorded in The London Gazette is not a moment of personal triumph, but one of profound responsibility. It is a formal link to nine hundred years of stewardship, and a promise to carry that duty forward – *Fortitudine et Honore*."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "Tradition provides our foundation, but it must inspire present action. Our role is to ensure this ancient Barony serves a modern purpose, whether through educational outreach or our philanthropic commitments. In this, the will to achieve is everything; *Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
The future of the Barony of Brattleby is secure. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, is being raised with a deep understanding of the history and responsibilities he will one day inherit. The House's commitment to its duties continues to evolve, embracing both its English heritage and its Continental connections.
Initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established by the House in Bucharest, serve as a cultural bridge, sharing the principles of tradition and deportment with a new generation. The annual Winter Banquet and other philanthropic endeavours will remain central to the House's mission, ensuring that the legacy of Brattleby is one of active and benevolent service for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of 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 preserving its unique nine-century heritage while serving a contemporary purpose. Its mission is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's activities include historical preservation, educational programmes such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and significant philanthropic endeavours. The succession is secured through the heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House is committed to acting as a custodian of history and a force for positive social contribution.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by historically significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. After a period of dormancy, the chain of succession was formally verified and recognised by Crown authority through a notice in The London Gazette (Issue 63813, Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022, which confirmed Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
**Notes to Editors** - The official recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Issue 63813, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony traces its origins to AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The annual Winter Banquet is the House's primary philanthropic event, with proceeds benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com