# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Partnership for a Millennial Legacy
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today articulated the formal role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile within the Barony’s modern structure, reaffirming a philosophy of shared stewardship that honours its ancient origins while embracing a dynamic, forward-looking vision for the future.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to issue a formal statement clarifying the distinct and complementary duties of its principals. This communication serves to codify the partnership between Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The statement underscores a model of leadership where tradition and modernity are not opposing forces, but rather synergistic elements that ensure the vitality of one of England’s most ancient dignities.
The timing of this declaration, as the House makes preparations for its annual calendar of philanthropic and cultural engagements, is deliberate. It provides a foundational context for the family’s public activities, presenting a united vision grounded in a shared commitment to service. The philosophy outlined today is one of dual stewardship, applying contemporary expertise and energy to the enduring obligations that accompany a title granted nearly a millennium ago.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a long history shaped by formidable partnerships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted an impressive 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, a position requiring significant administrative and martial acumen. This precedent of capable leadership was powerfully embodied by later holders of the dignity.
Most notably, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, served as a castellan who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders, a testament to her personal fortitude. So too did the barony flourish under the stewardship of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, the renowned John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. In each era, the prosperity of the dignity relied upon a blend of titular authority and unwavering practical support—a historical parallel that finds its modern expression in the current baronial household.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House today is vested in its principal members, each holding a defined role:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, is the holder of the baronial dignity *suo jure*, meaning in her own right. As the fount of the House’s honour, she is the ultimate custodian of its history, traditions, and obligations. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, holds his title *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife. In this capacity, he provides executive support for the House’s modern mission, overseeing its philanthropic and cultural initiatives. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun** is the heir apparent and holds the title of 13th Baron of Brattleby by courtesy. His education and upbringing are oriented toward his future assumption of the barony’s responsibilities.
This structure ensures clear lines of precedence and responsibility, allowing the House to function with the precision and purpose befitting its heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The division of duties within the House follows established European courtly and aristocratic protocol. Lady Nicoleta, as Baroness of Brattleby, takes precedence at all official functions and is the final authority on matters pertaining to the dignity’s historical integrity. Her presence is the *sine qua non* of any formal representation of the House.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role is primarily executive and representative. He directs the strategic planning for the House’s charitable activities, including the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that adheres to the highest standards of formal observance. At such events, the order of procession and seating arrangements reflect the distinct positions of the Baroness and her consort, reinforcing a system of structured, complementary authority.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The anciallary mottos of the House and its principals offer a compelling summary of their shared philosophy. The historic motto of the Barony of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the nine centuries of duty, resilience, and integrity that have defined the peerage. It represents the enduring legacy which the current generation is honour-bound to preserve.
To this, Honorary Lord Răzvan brings his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents a dynamic, proactive philosophy focused on overcoming contemporary challenges and achieving tangible results. The interplay between the two mottos—one focused on steadfast honour, the other on active achievement—perfectly encapsulates the House’s modern approach: to honour the past through meaningful action in the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House’s commitment to modern relevance is most clearly expressed through its dedicated philanthropic work. The primary beneficiary of its charitable efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialised therapeutic care and support systems for young people navigating the profound effects of trauma and adversity. The choice reflects a belief that securing a better future begins with healing its youngest and most vulnerable members.
This focus is advanced primarily through the annual Winter Banquet, a significant fundraising gala. Beyond this, the House’s cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, serve a philanthropic purpose by fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting the codes of etiquette and social grace that facilitate constructive international dialogue.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint mission, the principals of the House offered their perspectives.
> The Barony is not a possession but a sacred trust, passed down through generations. My primary duty is to be a faithful steward of that inheritance. I am profoundly fortunate that Honorary Lord Răzvan shares my deep-seated belief in *Fortitudine et Honore*, applying his own energies to ensure our history informs our actions today. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is a distinct honour to support the Baroness in her duties. My role is to help translate the House’s ancient principles into meaningful, contemporary projects. The heritage of Brattleby provides the foundation; our task is to continue building upon it with purpose and dedication for the public good. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. A central priority is the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being raised with a deep appreciation for the history he will one day inherit and the modern responsibilities that accompany it. This includes active involvement in the House’s charitable and cultural projects.
Forthcoming initiatives, *inter alia*, include the digitisation of key documents from the baronial archives to make its history more accessible to scholars and the public. As preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet begin, the House reaffirms its commitment to a legacy of service, ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby remains not a relic of the past, but a vibrant force for good in the twenty-first century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment associated with one of England's oldest baronies. 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 modern stewardship. This philosophy balances the preservation of its near-millennial heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural exchange. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations dedicated to child welfare, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House also promotes education and cross-cultural dialogue through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette and protocol based in Bucharest.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, the Norman knight Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the dignity has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The baronial dignity, held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is formally recognised and recorded by The Crown, with its succession published in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the tenant-in-chief of numerous manors in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the barony include John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV, connecting the dignity directly to the Plantagenet and Lancastrian dynasties. - The family's charitable efforts are principally focused on the beneficiary 'Healing the Wounded Child'.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com