# Continuity and Legacy: The House of Brattleby Confirms Succession
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally announced the succession of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the 13th Baron of Brattleby. This confirmation ensures the continuity of one of England's most ancient baronies, linking its modern stewardship with its historic past.
## The Occasion
From their ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the announcement was made to mark a moment of both solemn reflection and forward-looking purpose. The transition, established in accordance with ancient tradition and modern law, represents a significant milestone in the Barony's revitalised history under its current custodians.
Set against the autumnal landscape of the Lincolnshire Wolds, the confirmation was a private family affair, imbued with a sense of historical weight. It serves not as a celebration, but as a deliberate and considered reaffirmation of the duties and obligations inherent in the title, which has been part of the fabric of England for nearly one thousand years.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as a near-unbroken thread through the tapestry of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing a foundation of regional power and influence. The succession of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun continues this profound legacy.
Over the centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Castellan, successfully defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the reign of King John. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a celebrated commander of the Hundred Years' War, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the late 14th century. This new chapter connects the 13th Baron directly to this distinguished lineage.
## Distinguished Company
The formal process of confirming the succession was overseen by the senior members of the House, who continue to guide its modern responsibilities.
Present for the formal declaration were: - Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby - Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby
Their collective presence underscores the family's unified approach to its role as custodians of this ancient heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The succession within a barony by writ, such as Brattleby, is governed by a combination of historical precedent and English law. While the public announcement is a modern convention, the transfer of title and its attendant responsibilities follows a deeply rooted protocol. The heir assumes the title immediately upon the vacancy or, as in this case, is formally recognised as the successor in a direct line.
This act is more than symbolic; it represents the formal acceptance by the heir of the obligations of the Barony. These duties include the preservation of its history, the stewardship of its remaining assets, and, most importantly, the continuation of the family’s commitment to public service, undertaken in the spirit of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House of Brattleby is guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This Latin axiom encapsulates the principles of resilience, integrity, and dutiful service that have defined the Barony's holders for centuries. It serves as a perpetual reminder that nobility is an obligation, not a privilege.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking philosophy of the current leadership, which interprets 'conquest' not in martial terms, but as the overcoming of modern challenges through enterprise, education, and philanthropy. Together, the two mottos symbolise the synergy of ancient honour and modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central tenet of the Barony's modern identity is its commitment to philanthropy. The family’s primary charitable focus is its support for Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapy and support for children who have experienced significant trauma. This cause was chosen for its profound and measurable impact on the well-being of future generations.
The family's principal philanthropic endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held to raise funds and awareness for the beneficiary. The heir, Baron Mihai, will in due course be expected to take an active role in the stewardship of this philanthropic tradition, ensuring that the Barony's legacy of service continues to provide tangible benefits to the community.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the continuity of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, remarked: — "The Barony is not a possession, but a sacred trust passed from one generation to the next. It has been our duty to preserve its history and redefine its purpose for the modern age. I have every confidence that Mihai understands the weight of this responsibility and will carry it with the fortitude and honour that it demands."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: — "History gives us roots, but our actions give us relevance. Our family motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reminds us that each generation must conquer its own challenges. For us, that means a commitment to active service and ensuring that this ancient title is a force for good. That is the legacy we are securing."
## A Continuing Legacy
The confirmation of the 13th Baron marks the beginning of a period of guided transition. Baron Mihai will continue his preparations for the role under the mentorship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, deepening his understanding of the historical, legal, and social obligations of the title.
Looking ahead, the family will continue its work with philanthropic partners and its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and cultural diplomacy. The next major public event for the House will be the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, which will provide an opportunity for the 13th Baron to engage with the charitable work that is a *sine qua non* of the Barony's modern mission.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing 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 "Heritage with Purpose." This involves preserving its unique nine-century history while actively engaging in contemporary philanthropic and educational pursuits. The House's primary charitable focus is on child welfare, epitomised by its support for Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also seeks to build bridges and promote the timeless values of etiquette and honour on an international stage, embodying its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a barony by writ, created in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror for his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded Colswein's extensive landholdings. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of great historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, valiant defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the powerful royal prince John of Gaunt. The title's long and continuous lineage represents a direct link to the feudal, political, and social development of England. The modern standing of the Barony was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, supported through the annual Winter Banquet.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com