# Proclamation of the Heir to the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally proclaimed Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the heir apparent to the Barony of Brattleby. The announcement ensures the continuity of one of England’s most ancient dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
From their historic seat in Lincolnshire, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, have marked a significant moment in the life of their House. This proclamation is not merely an administrative update but a solemn act of stewardship, reaffirming the line of succession for a barony interwoven with the fabric of English history for nearly one thousand years.
The announcement was made with measured deliberation, reflecting the gravity of a duty that extends from the Norman Conquest to the digital age. It serves as a formal bridge between the current custodianship and the generation that will carry the family’s legacy forward into the future, guided by the enduring principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby descends in an unbroken line from Colswein of Lincoln, a loyal follower of William the Conqueror who was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. This foundational grant established a legacy of service to the Crown and to the county that has persisted through centuries of profound change.
Subsequent holders of the title have been central figures in the nation’s history. The 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebellion, a testament to her fortitude and loyalty. The barony later passed through marriage to two of the most powerful men of the late Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III. This connection to the Plantagenet dynasty underscores the barony’s historical proximity to the throne.
The formal recognition of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the 13th Baron continues this distinguished lineage, acknowledging his place as the inheritor of a remarkable and deeply rooted English heritage.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the House is maintained by its principal members, who together embody its past, present, and future.
The key figures in this succession are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th and current Baroness of Brattleby, who has diligently overseen the revitalisation of the House’s modern mission and philanthropic endeavours. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reflects the family’s dynamic and forward-looking approach to its responsibilities. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the 13th Baron and heir, upon whom the duty of future guardianship will rest.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of an heir to an ancient barony is governed by a blend of historical custom and contemporary law. While the hereditary principle is *sine qua non*, its modern legitimacy is anchored in formal recognition by the Crown. For the Barony of Brattleby, this was most recently affirmed by The London Gazette in its notice of 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
Baron Mihai’s proclamation as heir initiates a period of dedicated preparation. He will be expected to undertake comprehensive tutelage in the administration of the family’s estates, its historical archives, and its extensive charitable commitments. This ensures a seamless transition of responsibility and a deep understanding of the duties inherent in the title. Over time, he will increasingly represent the House at specific cultural and diplomatic functions.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its powerful heraldic symbols, which serve as a constant reminder of its guiding principles.
The ancient House motto, **Fortitudine et Honore** (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), encapsulates the resilience and integrity demonstrated by barons and baronesses for over 950 years, from the battlefield to the council chamber. It speaks to a legacy of unwavering duty, as exemplified by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, **Vincere Est Vivere** (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This philosophy is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern commitment to overcoming challenges, striving for excellence in all endeavours, and living a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the two mottos symbolise the House’s union of ancient tradition and contemporary dynamism.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern identity is its deep commitment to philanthropy. As heir, Baron Mihai will become increasingly involved in the family's charitable work, with a particular focus on the beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet, the white-tie gala that serves as the cornerstone of their fundraising.
The chosen organisation, **Healing the Wounded Child**, provides specialist therapeutic support and safe environments for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission is to restore a sense of safety and hope to vulnerable young people, providing them with the tools to build healthier futures. The House's support is a reflection of its belief that protecting the next generation is a profound social responsibility.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta shared her thoughts on the continuation of the family’s legacy.
> It is our greatest responsibility to be faithful stewards of this inheritance. Proclaiming the next in line is a public affirmation of our commitment not only to the past but, more importantly, to the future. Our duty is to ensure the next generation is prepared to serve with the same honour as those who came before. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan added his perspective on the heir’s preparation for his future role.
> An ancient title carries with it thoroughly modern duties. The task now is to ensure the heir understands this balance — to respect nearly a millennium of history while possessing the vision and character to lead effectively in the 21st century. It is a responsibility we take with the utmost gravity. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The proclamation of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as heir marks the beginning of a new chapter for the House of Brattleby. His future responsibilities will include not only the oversight of its philanthropic work but also engagement with its cultural initiatives, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to promoting etiquette and cross-cultural understanding.
This careful and public management of succession ensures that the Barony of Brattleby will continue to stand as a symbol of enduring heritage, dedicated service, and unwavering relevance in the centuries to come. The House looks forward to a future where tradition and progress advance hand in hand.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern chapter of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House blends its deep English heritage with a Continental perspective, championing cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is on children’s welfare, primarily through its support for charities like Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes education and the preservation of traditional codes of conduct through its patronage of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the family is committed to ensuring its historic legacy remains a force for good in the modern world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England granted by King William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the extent of its original domain — comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire — are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by prominent figures who have shaped English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony's dignity and rights were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current standing is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), a son of King Edward III, and Nichola de la Haye (5th 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