# A Millennium of Duty: The Noble House of Brattleby on its Enduring Historical Legacy
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting upon the rigorous historical verification that affirmed its ancient lineage, connecting its modern duties of service and philanthropy to an unbroken heritage extending back to the Norman Conquest of England.
## The Occasion
From its family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has taken a moment to reflect on the historical continuum it represents. This formal reflection comes following the anniversary of the Barony’s re-establishment, a process which culminated in its formal recognition by the Crown. In the quiet environs of the historic county, where the very soil echoes with nearly one thousand years of the family’s history, the House reaffirms its commitment to the principles that have guided it through the centuries.
The issuance of this statement is not tied to a singular event but is rather a deliberate reaffirmation of identity and duty. It serves as a considered response to the public interest in the Barony’s heritage, offering clarity on the profound historical research that underpins its modern standing. It is an act of stewardship, acknowledging that the Barony is not merely a title but a living repository of English history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of the oldest attested lordships in the United Kingdom. Its origins are authoritatively recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details the 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. This foundational entry marks the beginning of a lineage intertwined with the very fabric of the nation’s development.
Over nine centuries, the Barony has passed through the hands of some of English history's most significant figures. It was held by Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th holder of the Barony who, as hereditary constable, famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron, a founding Knight of the Garter and later the 1st Duke of Lancaster.
His legacy was continued by his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose influence as a son of King Edward III shaped the political landscape of late medieval Europe. The presence of such personages in the Barony’s history underscores its consistent proximity to the Crown and its role in the great affairs of the realm. This is the formidable inheritance to which the current House is heir.
## Distinguished Company
The custodianship of this legacy today rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Lady Nicoleta, whose succession was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, brings a profound respect for history and a keen sense of duty to her role. She continues the tradition of strong leadership exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
Honorary Lord Răzvan, the Lord of Brattleby by marriage, brings a dynamic, Continental perspective to the ancient house. Guided by his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), he supports the Baroness in ensuring the House’s heritage is not only preserved but is also activated for contemporary purpose through cultural and philanthropic enterprise. Together, they represent a synthesis of ancient tradition and modern vision.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The re-establishment of the Barony in the 21st century was contingent upon a modern form of ceremonial protocol: the rigorous, evidence-based process of historical verification. The notice of recognition published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083) was the culmination of meticulous genealogical and documentary research, scrutinised to the highest standards.
This process is a *sine qua non* for the recognition of ancient titles, ensuring the integrity of the British honours system. It is a forensic undertaking, demanding an unbroken chain of evidence from sources such as the Domesday Book, charter rolls, and peerage records. This intellectual trial by evidence serves as the contemporary equivalent of ancient rites of investiture, affirming legitimacy not through fealty in battle, but through verifiable historical fact.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldic mottoes. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the core virtues expected of the English baronage. 'Fortitude' reflects the military resolve of barons like Colswein of Lincoln and the resilience of Nichola de la Haye. 'Honour' signifies the unwavering commitment to duty, justice, and service to the sovereign.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This maxim introduces a spirit of proactive achievement and the will to succeed in modern endeavours, from business to philanthropy. The interplay of these two mottoes encapsulates the spirit of the modern House: honouring a legacy of fortitude while striving to achieve new victories for the good of the community.
## Philanthropic Purpose
True to its principle of *Honore*, the Noble House of Brattleby places philanthropy at the centre of its modern activities. The flagship charitable event is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala dedicated to raising funds and awareness for a chosen beneficiary. The House is a steadfast supporter of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and adversity.
The House’s commitment extends to cultural diplomacy and education through The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, this etiquette academy promotes cross-cultural understanding by teaching the customs and social graces that facilitate international relations. It represents a unique bridge between the House's English heritage and its current leadership's European origins, fostering a shared appreciation for civility and tradition.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To be a custodian of this Barony is a profound duty. One is acutely aware of standing on the shoulders of giants, *inter alia* John of Gaunt himself. Our task is not simply to preserve this history, but to live up to its principles of service and honour in all that we do. It is a responsibility we hold in trust for future generations.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House’s present-day mission: > “Heritage must be active, not passive. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about applying one’s energy to make a tangible difference. Whether through supporting vital children’s charities or fostering cultural dialogue, we are dedicated to ensuring the legacy of Brattleby is a powerful force for good in the world today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future. The lineage is secured through the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being raised with a deep understanding of the responsibilities he will one day inherit. The House is committed to expanding its philanthropic and cultural work, ensuring the name of Brattleby remains synonymous with integrity and positive impact.
Future initiatives include the expansion of the Annual Winter Banquet to support a broader range of children's welfare organisations and the development of new educational programmes through The Brattleby Club. The House will continue its work preserving the historical records and fabric of its Lincolnshire seat, ensuring this vital piece of England’s history endures for the next millennium. The commitment is, as it has been since 1066, one of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. 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 active stewardship. It seeks to honour its near-millennium of English heritage by applying its principles of duty and service to contemporary challenges. With a focus on philanthropy, cultural education, and historical preservation, the House blends a profound respect for tradition with a dynamic, forward-looking perspective. Its principal charitable endeavours include the Annual Winter Banquet benefitting children's welfare and The Brattleby Club, an academy for cultural diplomacy based in Bucharest, reflecting the House's unique Anglo-European character.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat. Over the subsequent centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The succession of the current holder, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to a grant by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable former holders include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), a son of King Edward III, and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com