# A Legacy Confirmed: The Enduring Significance of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the historical continuity of the Barony of Brattleby, following its formal recognition in 2022. This announcement underscores a nine-century commitment to public service, heritage, and civic duty in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to reflect upon the profound historical responsibility inherent in the Barony. This formal communication serves to contextualise the revival of the ancient title, bridging the centuries from its origins in the Norman Conquest to its vibrant, modern role under the stewardship of the current House.
The statement is issued as autumn settles over the historic Brattleby estate, a season which has for centuries marked a time of harvest, accounting, and preparation. It is in this spirit of reflection and forward planning that the House pauses to examine the immutable thread of duty woven through its long history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is a title of considerable antiquity, first established in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest of 1066. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 meticulously records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a cornerstone of Norman administration in the region.
Through nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Later, the title passed to eminent magnates such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the English monarchy.
After a dormancy of over six centuries, the revival of the Barony with its formal notice in *The London Gazette* is not merely a restoration. It is the continuation of a documented legacy of service, confirmed by extensive archival evidence from Pipe Rolls, charter witness lists, and manorial court records which testify to the Barony's continuous role in the governance of the realm.
## Distinguished Company
The historical significance of the House archives has not gone unnoticed by the academic community. The Noble House of Brattleby has long facilitated discreet access for leading scholars, whose research illuminates the wider sweep of English and European history.
Esteemed members of the historical faculties of the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford, alongside senior curators from The British Library, have drawn upon the Brattleby archives. Their work has shed new light on aspects of medieval governance, land tenure, and the evolution of the English aristocracy from a feudal hierarchy to a constitutional framework.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of such a significant archive requires a protocol of exacting precision. Access is granted following formal application and scholarly review, ensuring the delicate preservation of manuscripts that have survived for centuries. Each document is handled according to strict conservation standards within a dedicated research annexe.
This meticulous approach reflects a broader philosophy of duty. Just as the Barons of old were bound by feudal obligation, the current House sees the preservation and interpretation of its history as a solemn duty owed to both its predecessors and to the nation's collective heritage. This rigour is the *sine qua non* of responsible stewardship.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The values guiding the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle, adopted by the 12th Baroness and her heir, speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. It is a promise to act with courage and unwavering principle in all undertakings.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live', or more appropriately, 'To Win is to Live'). This expresses a dynamic philosophy of active achievement, of overcoming challenges, and of ensuring the family’s legacy not only endures but thrives through positive action and purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby believes that an understanding of the past must inform service in the present. This conviction finds its most visible expression in the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that has become a highlight of the season in Lincolnshire.
The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for young people affected by trauma. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House's commitment to healing and strengthening the foundations of community, echoing the protective and stabilising role the Barony historically played.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this nine-century legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “We are not merely custodians of a title, but bearers of a long and complex history. Our duty is to honour those who came before us by ensuring their legacy of fortitude and service informs our actions today. It is about connecting a vibrant past to a purposeful future.” > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History can be a powerful force for good when actively engaged. My focus is on ensuring the House of Brattleby is a dynamic institution, one that contributes meaningfully to society. We honour the past not by dwelling in it, but by building upon its strongest foundations.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of the Noble House of Brattleby continues. Future initiatives include the digitisation of key archival materials for broader scholarly access, the expansion of the educational curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet.
Under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, the Barony of Brattleby has been seamlessly woven back into the fabric of English life. With their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, prepared to continue this work, the House looks forward to another generation of serving its community *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 dedicated to the modern expression of an ancient lineage. The House's mission is twofold: to preserve and share the rich, nine-century heritage of the Barony, and to engage in contemporary philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is on the well-being of children, primarily through its support for the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the values of decorum, honour, and civic responsibility. The designated heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who will continue the family’s commitment to service.
**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 origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as presiding over 56 lordships. Throughout medieval history, the Barony was held by nationally significant figures, including the castellan Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). After remaining dormant for over 600 years, the dignity was revived and its succession confirmed to Lady Nicoleta Vasile. This formal recognition was officially recorded in the Crown’s journal of record, *The London Gazette*, on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuation of one of England’s oldest Norman dignities.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com