# The Noble House of Brattleby on the Formal Recognition of the 12th Baroness
LONDON, [Date] — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon the historic, formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, an act which reaffirms a lineage extending to the Norman Conquest and secures its continuity for the 21st century.
## The Occasion
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 marked the formal reactivation of one of England’s most ancient dignities. This announcement was not merely a procedural update but the culmination of rigorous genealogical and historical verification. *The London Gazette*, as the United Kingdom's official journal of record since 1665, provided the appropriate and necessary forum for this significant legal pronouncement.
The recognition represents a moment of profound consequence, bridging a period of dormancy with a vibrant present. It serves as a testament to the enduring nature of English customary law and the meticulous preservation of archival records, which together allow for the revival of such hereditary titles. This act ensures the Barony’s narrative, woven through the fabric of English history for nearly a millennium, continues unbroken.
## Historical Context
Established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a living link to the foundations of the English state. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, demonstrating the Barony’s immediate consequence in the post-Conquest landscape.
Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures central to the nation’s story. Their lives reflect a consistent commitment to Crown and country, from the defence of the realm to the highest echelons of government. The continuity of this title through such diverse historical epochs underscores its remarkable resilience and its deep connection to the constitutional development of England.
## Distinguished Company
In assuming the title, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, joins a lineage of considerable distinction. The history of the Barony is illuminated by her predecessors, who include, *inter alia*:
* **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness**, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle famously defended it against rebel forces during the First Barons' War, a pivotal moment in the reign of King John. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron**, later the 1st Duke of Lancaster, a renowned soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, who was one of the most powerful and respected noblemen of the 14th century. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron**, son of King Edward III and father of King Henry IV, whose immense wealth, influence, and royal blood made him a dominant figure in late medieval England.
The stewardship of these historical figures provides a formidable precedent of service and duty, a standard which the House of Brattleby continues to uphold.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of a hereditary peerage is governed by time-honoured legal and official protocol. The process requires unimpeachable documentary evidence tracing succession, which is then subject to formal review. The subsequent announcement in *The London Gazette* is the *sine qua non* of official state recognition.
This publication functions as a modern state ceremony in print, affirming the title holder’s rights and placing their name upon the official public record. For the House of Brattleby, this formal act symbolised the transfer of a sacred trust, executed with the precision and gravity befitting a title granted at the founding of the kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues that have guided the Barons of Brattleby for centuries. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the resilience of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ speaks to the unwavering commitment to duty.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This serves as a dynamic complement, signifying a philosophy of proactive achievement and the belief that overcoming challenges is the essence of a meaningful life. Together, the mottos articulate a balance between enduring ancient virtues and embracing modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The assumption of this ancient title is inextricably linked to a commitment to public service. The Noble House of Brattleby channels its efforts through a focused philanthropic programme, most visibly expressed at the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the cornerstone of the family's charitable calendar.
The sole beneficiary of the Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. The decision to support this cause reflects the House’s belief that nurturing the well-being of the next generation is a foundational social responsibility.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historic recognition, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “This recognition is less a personal accomplishment and more the acceptance of a profound custodial duty. One is keenly aware of the weight of history and the integrity of those who came before. Our task is to honour that legacy through meaningful action, ensuring the title serves a purpose beyond its name.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “Our role is to ensure this great heritage, stretching back to 1066, serves as a foundation for positive action today. It is a privilege to support my wife in this endeavour and to apply the spirit of *Vincere Est Vivere* to our shared goals, whether in cultural preservation or our philanthropic commitments.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With the title secured, the Noble House of Brattleby is focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 14th Baron in waiting, is of paramount importance, ensuring he is prepared for the responsibilities he will one day inherit.
The House’s work continues through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established in Bucharest to promote cultural and social refinement. In Lincolnshire, the family remains dedicated to the conservation of its seat and archives. This dual focus—preserving the past while actively shaping the future—defines the ongoing mission of the Barony of Brattleby under its 12th Baroness.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of preserving its unique nine-hundred-year heritage while making a tangible contribution to contemporary society. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic work is focused on championing causes related to child welfare, while its cultural initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster an appreciation for historical etiquette and protocol. This modern chapter in the Barony’s history is defined by a dedication to service, honour, and purposeful legacy.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been entwined with the history of England, held by some of the kingdom’s most consequential figures, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye, the great magnate Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the royal prince John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the title was formally recognised in the person of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, by notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its continuity. Its seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors holding the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family's seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com