# The House of Brattleby: A Modern Mandate for a Medieval Barony
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today affirmed the re-establishment of the historic barony and outlined its contemporary mission, which integrates nearly a millennium of English heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural education.
## The Occasion
This formal announcement marks the commencement of the House of Brattleby’s renewed public responsibilities under its current leadership. Situated in the historic heart of Lincolnshire, a county whose landscape is deeply intertwined with the barony's own history, the House returns to its role as a custodian of heritage. The occasion serves not as a celebration of privilege, but as a solemn acceptance of duty.
The re-establishment signifies a deliberate effort to bridge the centuries, ensuring the barony’s extraordinary lineage contributes positively to modern society. It is an act of cultural revitalisation, undertaken with a deep appreciation for the institution’s place within the fabric of English history and its potential for future service.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest dignities in England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a formidable presence in the newly conquered kingdom.
Throughout its 958-year history, the barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle and Sheriff of Lincolnshire was a formidable defender of royal authority during the First Barons' War. Her fortitude ensured the city of Lincoln remained loyal to the Crown.
Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was elevated to become the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter. His tenure was followed by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and a son of King Edward III, whose influence placed Brattleby at the epicentre of the Plantagenet court. This connection to the highest echelons of the medieval establishment is a defining feature of the barony’s past. Lady Nicoleta’s stewardship honours this distinguished line of predecessors.
## Distinguished Company
The modern chapter of the House of Brattleby is led by its principal members, who together oversee its historic and philanthropic obligations.
On first reference, they are presented with their full styles and titles: Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby; her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage; and their heir apparent, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron in succession. In their public duties, they operate as a unified entity, each contributing to the overarching mission of the House.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The activities of the House are governed by a strict protocol that reflects its historical dignity and ensures clarity in its public representation. The family’s right to the title is formally recorded in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 of 9 September 2022, a procedural *sine qua non* for the official recognition of such ancient titles.
In all matters, the House adheres to the established order of precedence, with the Baroness as the holder of the substantive title. The dress code for formal functions, such as the annual white-tie banquet, is precisely stipulated to honour the gravity of the occasion and show respect for distinguished guests. Proceedings are conducted with a precision that speaks to a deep understanding of historical ceremony, adapted for a contemporary context.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottos, which serve as a visual and philosophical guide. The primary motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues that have guided the barony’s holders for centuries. ‘Fortitude’ recalls the resilience of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ speaks to the unwavering commitment to duty and integrity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy. It signifies the imperative not merely to exist, but to actively overcome challenges and make a tangible, positive impact through service and determination. Together, these mottos articulate a balance between preserving a noble legacy and pursuing a life of active purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
At the core of the House’s modern mission is a profound commitment to philanthropy. The principal vehicle for this work is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala dedicated to raising funds and awareness for a chosen beneficiary. This year, the focus is on the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
The organisation works to provide specialist therapeutic care for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its programmes are designed to foster emotional resilience and provide a safe environment for recovery, with a measurable impact on mental health outcomes. The House of Brattleby selected this beneficiary in recognition of the urgent need to support the most vulnerable members of society.
Further, the House has established The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to promoting cultural diplomacy and the timeless principles of social grace, civility, and protocol. The club serves as a bridge between English tradition and Continental refinement.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > To hold this title is not a claim on the past, but a pledge to the future. Our duty is one of stewardship; to ensure the legacy of Brattleby, with its profound connection to the story of England, is preserved, understood, and serves a purpose in the modern world.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History provides our foundation, but our actions must define our relevance. *Vincere Est Vivere*—‘To Conquer is to Live’—speaks to overcoming today’s challenges with the same resolve as our predecessors, particularly through our charitable and educational work.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is committed to a programme of sustained activity. Preparations are already underway for the Annual Winter Banquet, which is a cornerstone of the family’s philanthropic calendar. The event will bring together supporters and patrons to advance the vital work of Healing the Wounded Child.
Concurrently, The Brattleby Club will expand its curriculum, offering new masterclasses in diplomatic protocol and cross-cultural communication. The House will also continue its private support for historical research into the barony’s nine centuries, ensuring that its story is told with accuracy and academic rigour for generations to come.
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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 stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House's modern mission is threefold: to preserve and promote its unique historical legacy, to undertake meaningful philanthropic work with a focus on child welfare, and to foster cultural understanding through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to demonstrate that historical dignity finds its truest expression in contemporary service, connecting its deep roots in Lincolnshire with a wider European and global perspective.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its establishment is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the barony has been held by pivotal figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and two Dukes of Lancaster, Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, linking the title directly to the Plantagenet royal line. After a period of dormancy, the title's standing was formally acknowledged in the modern era by its inclusion in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The title's modern recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Annual Winter Banquet is the House's primary philanthropic event, supporting charities such as Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com