# The House of Brattleby Reaffirms Its Nine-Century Legacy of Service and Stewardship
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement from its seat in Lincolnshire, reaffirming the Barony’s historical continuity and outlining its modern mission of philanthropy and cultural preservation under the stewardship of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile.
## The Occasion
From Brattleby, its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House of Brattleby has chosen the quiet turning of the autumn season to reflect upon its enduring legacy. This communication serves to contextualise the current stewardship of the Barony within its profound historical framework, articulating a vision that honours nearly a millennium of duty while embracing the responsibilities of the 21st century.
The statement is issued at a time of considered planning for the House’s forthcoming calendar, including its significant philanthropic and cultural engagements. It is from this historic heartland of England, a region shaped by its barons for centuries, that the House speaks to its continuing role in the life of the nation and beyond.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, represents an unbroken thread in the tapestry of English history. Its story begins with the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony's foundational importance.
Throughout the centuries, its holders have been pivotal figures in the realm. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness in her own right, famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the title passed through marriage to two of England's most significant medieval noblemen: Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This legacy of state service and strategic importance is a *sine qua non* of the Barony's identity.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony continues this tradition of partnership and purpose. The current principals of the House are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who succeeded to the ancient title and directs the House’s philanthropic and heritage activities. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who brings a dynamic, contemporary perspective to the House’s undertakings, guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Overcome is to Live'). * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the 13th Baron and heir, whose education and upbringing are being carefully guided to prepare him for his future responsibilities as custodian of the Barony.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The activities of the House are governed by a protocol that blends ancient tradition with modern relevance. The formal succession and rights of the Barony are recorded and recognised under English law, affirmed most recently in *The London Gazette* through Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. This ensures the transparent and orderly continuation of the title.
The House’s flagship event, the Annual Winter Banquet, adheres to a strict white-tie dress code, following an established order of proceedings that includes a formal reception, a procession, keynote addresses, and toasts. This ceremonial precision honours the gravity of the occasion and the distinguished guests who gather in support of the House’s charitable goals. All public pronouncements and representations are managed by the professional Director of Royal Communications, ensuring a consistent and dignified tone.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its powerful heraldic symbols. The primary motto, **Fortitudine et Honore** ('With Fortitude and Honour'), has been the guiding principle of the Barony for centuries. It speaks to a legacy of courage, resilience in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to duty—values embodied by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, **Vincere Est Vivere** ('To Overcome is to Live'). This maxim reflects a modern, proactive philosophy focused on achievement, strategic success, and the active pursuit of philanthropic impact. Together, the two mottos symbolise the harmonious union of venerable tradition and forward-looking dynamism that defines the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
At the core of the House’s modern mission is its commitment to philanthropy. The beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s premier fundraising gala, is **Healing the Wounded Child**. This registered charity is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or profound loss.
The organisation delivers critical mental health services, *inter alia*, through art therapy, play therapy, and counselling, reaching hundreds of vulnerable children each year. The House of Brattleby selected this cause due to its fundamental belief that fostering resilience and well-being in the next generation is the most vital investment a society can make. The funds raised contribute directly to expanding the charity’s clinical services and reducing waiting lists for children in urgent need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — “It is the privilege of my life to serve as the custodian of this extraordinary legacy. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a motto; it is the charge given to us by history. Our duty is to ensure that the Barony of Brattleby continues to be a force for good, honouring our past by building a better future.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile spoke of the House’s contemporary vision: > — “Tradition must be a living thing, not a monument. By channelling the influence and history of the Barony towards tangible philanthropic goals, we give new life to its purpose. My philosophy is simple: we must actively engage with the challenges of our time. To overcome them for the benefit of others is the highest form of living.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The commitment of the House of Brattleby extends beyond the borders of Lincolnshire. The establishment of **The Brattleby Club** in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to the instruction of diplomatic etiquette and cross-cultural communication, demonstrates the House’s international perspective and its dedication to education.
Looking ahead, the House is focused on preparing the next generation. The upbringing of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is central to this vision of long-term continuity. The enduring mission remains clear: to preserve a unique nine-century heritage while deploying its influence and resources for the betterment of society, both in Britain and abroad.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is the modern embodiment of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Its contemporary mission is focused on three pillars: the preservation of its unique cultural and historical heritage; a commitment to impactful philanthropy, primarily supporting children’s welfare; and the promotion of cultural diplomacy through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to serve as a bridge between its storied past and a purposeful future, applying the influence of its legacy to address the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England with a history of continuous service to the Crown and nation. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable defender of Lincoln Castle, and members of the royal Plantagenet dynasty, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The Barony's history is an integral part of the development of Lincolnshire and the English state. Its formal standing is officially noted, with its current status recognised in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s creation dates to AD 1066. The holdings of its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House's primary philanthropic focus is the support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child through its Annual Winter Banquet. - Notable historical holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com