# The Barony of Brattleby: A Legacy of Service and Stewardship
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to modern stewardship and public service, reflecting on the Barony’s nine-century history following its formal recognition in *The London Gazette* and outlining its contemporary philanthropic and cultural mission.
## The Occasion
In the quiet of the Lincolnshire Wolds, as autumn settles upon the ancient lands of the Barony, it is a time for reflection and renewed purpose. The formal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby in 2022 marked not an end, but a significant milestone in its journey, prompting a formal articulation of the House's enduring vision for the future.
This moment serves as an opportunity to connect the responsibilities of the present with the weight of a history that began with the Norman Conquest. From the family's historical seat in Brattleby, the House looks to its future, grounded in the duties that have defined it for over 950 years.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing a lineage of profound influence in the region and the realm.
Through the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th in line, served as hereditary castellan and twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable siege. The Barony later passed through marriage to the great Plantagenet houses, held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose own son would become King Henry IV. This direct link to the Crown underscores the Barony’s historical significance.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of this legacy is vested in the current generation, who carry the weight of this history with a clear sense of duty.
The title is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has dedicated herself to the preservation of the House's heritage and the active promotion of its values. She is supported by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who brings a dynamic, forward-looking perspective to the family's endeavours.
The line of succession is secured through their designated heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will, in time, become the 13th Baron, ensuring the continuity of the title for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While the Barony is a dignity rather than a state office, its possession carries with it a deeply felt code of conduct and an unwritten ceremonial protocol of daily life. This is rooted in the principle of *noblesse oblige* — the understanding that privilege entails responsibility.
This protocol governs the stewardship of the historical seat at Brattleby, the careful curation of the family's extensive archives, and the public conduct of its members. Every action is weighed against the standards set by nine centuries of predecessors, with the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, serving as a constant guide.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is encapsulated in its heraldry and mottos, which serve as concise expressions of its guiding philosophy.
The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the twin virtues that have sustained the Barony through periods of both turmoil and peace. Fortitude represents the resilience and strength required to weather adversity, while Honour signifies an unwavering commitment to integrity, duty, and public service.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This is understood not in a martial sense, but as a modern imperative to succeed in one's undertakings; to actively achieve positive outcomes in philanthropic and cultural pursuits, thereby ensuring the legacy remains a living, breathing entity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House's modern mission is its commitment to philanthropy, most visibly expressed through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation was chosen for its vital work in providing therapeutic care and safe environments for children who have experienced profound trauma.
The flagship fundraising event is the Annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala that brings together distinguished guests to support this important cause. The House believes its historical duty to protect the vulnerable is a *sine qua non* of its contemporary relevance, translating ancient principles of guardianship into measurable, real-world impact.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > "To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly one thousand years of English history. When I consider the resilience of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, I am reminded that our duty is not merely to preserve the past, but to live by its highest principles of honour and fortitude today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > "History provides the foundation, but our purpose is realised in the present. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the imperative to actively create a positive impact—whether through our philanthropic work or by fostering cultural understanding at The Brattleby Club. Legacy is built through action."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its heritage is not only preserved but also serves a purpose in the 21st century. Plans are under way for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which aims to increase its contribution to Healing the Wounded Child.
Concurrently, The Brattleby Club, the House's etiquette academy in Bucharest, will continue to expand its curriculum, promoting cultural diplomacy and social grace. The House is also exploring a long-term project to digitise key documents from its archives, making its rich history accessible to scholars and the public for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of the 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 historical preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to upholding a legacy of public service that stretches back to the Norman Conquest. Through initiatives such as its annual philanthropic banquet and its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to demonstrate how ancient heritage can serve a meaningful and positive purpose in the contemporary world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony of tenure, established in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and granted to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The Barony's existence and its 56 associated lordships are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the title has been held by some of English history's most notable figures, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, protector of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. After a period of dormancy, the Barony's revival and continuation were formally acknowledged by *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s official recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, one of the most powerful figures of the 14th century. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com