# A Statement on the Historical Significance and Enduring Responsibilities of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement detailing the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby, reaffirming its commitment to the ancient duties of service and honour inherent in the title granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
To mark the beginning of the autumn season, a time traditionally associated with reflection and harvest, the Chancery of the Noble House of Brattleby has published a definitive historical summary. This statement serves to illuminate the lineage and responsibilities associated with one of England's oldest baronies, making its profound history accessible to a contemporary audience.
The document was released through the House’s official digital channels, providing an authoritative resource on the baronial duties that have evolved over 35 generations. It articulates the guiding principles that connect the Barony's feudal origins to its modern role as a custodian of heritage and a proponent of philanthropic service.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby has been interwoven with the fabric of English history since its creation following the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant martial and administrative power in the region from its inception.
Throughout the centuries, its holders have been central to the nation's development. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders during the First Barons' War, a feat of leadership that secured her place as one of medieval England’s most formidable women. Later, the title was held by towering figures of the Lancastrian dynasty, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the fourteenth century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The historical obligations of the Barony were founded on the feudal code of chivalry, demanding military service to the sovereign in exchange for land and title. This martial responsibility, the *sine qua non* of medieval nobility, is evident in the records of barons who fought at Falkirk, Caerlaverock, and on the Crusades.
Today, this ancient protocol of duty is interpreted not through military command but through public service and cultural stewardship. The traditions of loyalty, integrity, and responsibility to the community remain paramount. The formal observances of the House, *inter alia*, are conducted with a precision that honours this unbroken chain of ceremonial and moral duty, translating feudal obligation into modern civic engagement.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, Latin for 'With Fortitude and Honour'. This phrase distils the dual virtues expected of a Baron of Brattleby: resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to personal and public integrity. It serves as both a historical touchstone and a daily directive for the family.
This ancient motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere*, meaning 'To Conquer is to Live'. This latter motto is understood in a modern context, signifying the imperative to overcome challenges in the pursuit of progress, education, and philanthropy. Together, the two mottos create a powerful philosophy of principled action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historic responsibility of a baron to care for the people within his domain finds its modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of the Noble House of Brattleby. The House considers charitable work not as a secondary activity, but as the primary means of fulfilling its duty of stewardship in the 21st century.
This commitment is most visibly demonstrated through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the House's principal fundraising initiative. Proceeds from the event are dedicated to Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support and care to children who have experienced trauma, aligning the Barony’s resources with the needs of the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
In the context of the historical statement, the leadership of the House shared their perspective on this enduring legacy.
> To hold this title is to be a custodian of a nearly thousand-year-old promise made to the Crown and to the people of Lincolnshire. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a motto; it is the standard against which every decision is measured, ensuring our actions are worthy of the history we inherit. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> The martial history of the Barony teaches us that leadership demands readiness and resolve. Today, the battles are different—they are for cultural preservation, education, and the welfare of the vulnerable—but the principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* remains: to overcome adversity is the very essence of a meaningful life. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to ensuring its legacy is not only preserved but also actively animated. This commitment extends beyond the borders of Lincolnshire to continental Europe through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cultural and social refinement.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to focus on its philanthropic and educational programmes. The preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet are already underway, reaffirming a perpetual commitment to service that has defined the Barony of Brattleby since 1066 and continues to guide its future.
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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 to translate its profound historical legacy into impactful philanthropic and cultural action. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s work centres on heritage conservation, educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and charitable fundraising, most notably through its Annual Winter Banquet. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding extensive lands. The title has passed through 35 generations and has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The Barony's continuous history and its current holders are formally recognised in the public record by His Majesty's Government, as published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a key figure during the reign of King John, and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), one of the most powerful political figures of 14th-century England. - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of the House is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com