# The House of Brattleby Reflects on an Historic Revival After Six Centuries
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting upon the formal revival of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. The communication underscores the historical significance of the title’s 620-year dormancy and outlines its modern purpose and philanthropic commitments.
## The Occasion
In a period of considered reflection, as the House makes preparations for its charitable and cultural engagements for the coming year, it pauses to acknowledge the profound historical journey of the Barony of Brattleby. This moment serves not as a singular event, but as a formal articulation of the principles underpinning its re-emergence. From its seat in Lincolnshire, the House considers the path from its medieval origins, through a quietude spanning over six centuries, to its present-day role as an active contributor to cultural and philanthropic life.
The revival, officially recognised in 2022, was the culmination of meticulous research and a deeply held commitment to heritage. It represents a considered decision to bring forward a noble legacy, not as a monument to the past, but as a living entity with contemporary responsibilities. This statement, therefore, is issued to provide context for the Barony’s renewed mission, which is guided by its enduring motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, stands as one of England’s foundational Norman enfeoffments. 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 lineage of considerable regional power. For over three centuries, the Barony was held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War.
The direct line continued through to such luminaries as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The Barony’s active history paused in 1399 when John of Gaunt's son, Henry Bolingbroke, ascended the throne as King Henry IV, at which point the title merged with the Crown. For the next 620 years, the Barony lay dormant; its history was preserved in charters and chronicles, but its voice was absent from the affairs of the realm. This long slumber, far from diminishing its standing, allowed the title to remain untainted by the political volatilities of intervening centuries, creating a unique and unbroken link to its medieval origins.
## Distinguished Company
The modern chapter of the Barony is shaped by the stewardship of its current holders, whose collective vision has guided its revival.
At the head of the House is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, whose leadership and dedication were the *sine qua non* of the title’s restoration. Her efforts have been central to ensuring the Barony’s re-emergence is one of substance and purpose.
She is supported by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. An architect of the House’s modern mission, Honorary Lord Răzvan champions a philosophy of active contribution, encapsulated in his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’).
The future of the lineage is secured in Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir. His deep appreciation for the historical and genealogical provenance of the title ensures that the principles of continuity and honour will be carried forward for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The restoration of a title dormant for over six centuries is a matter of exacting legal and heraldic protocol. The process was not a simple declaration but a rigorous undertaking involving extensive genealogical research to prove an unbroken line of descent, followed by a formal petition to the Crown. This revival required demonstrating the historical validity of the claim through primary sources, *inter alia*, charters, public records, and peerage law.
The successful petition culminated in a formal notice of recognition published by The Crown Office. This acknowledgement was officially recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083, serving as the definitive public record of the Barony’s revival. This protocol ensures that ancient honours are revived not by ambition, but by legitimate, verifiable right, thereby preserving the integrity of the British honours system.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry and the mottos that guide its conduct. The principal motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to its history and present mission. ‘Fortitude’ acknowledges the resilience required to endure six centuries of dormancy, while ‘Honour’ defines the integrity with which the House has been revived and now operates.
This ancient maxim is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This phrase does not signify martial conquest but a philosophical commitment to overcoming challenges, to acting with purpose, and to making a tangible, positive impact on the world. Together, the two mottos create a powerful synergy: one representing the enduring character of the House, the other the dynamic spirit of its modern activities.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central tenet of the Barony’s revival is the principle that privilege confers responsibility. The House has therefore dedicated its primary philanthropic efforts to supporting Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing critical therapeutic care and mental health services to children who have experienced trauma and adversity. This cause was chosen for its profound and lasting impact, reflecting the House’s commitment to nurturing future generations.
The principal fundraising vehicle for this cause is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that gathers friends and supporters of the House. The funds raised contribute directly to the charity's programmes, which offer specialist counselling, art therapy, and educational support, enabling vulnerable children to build resilience and look forward to a brighter future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's journey, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The Barony of Brattleby is a testament to the idea that true heritage is not static. For six centuries it may have slumbered, but its honour and its connection to Lincolnshire remained. Our duty now is to translate that legacy into meaningful action, ensuring it serves the community with the same fortitude that sustained it through history.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House’s forward-looking mission: > “History gives us our roots, but purpose gives us our direction. Reviving the Barony was the first step; the true task is to live up to its name every day through service and tangible works. It is in building a legacy of contribution, not merely inheriting one, that we truly honour the past.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The revival of the Barony of Brattleby marks not an end, but a beginning. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to a future of active service and cultural enrichment. This commitment is manifest in its ongoing projects, including the curriculum development at The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cross-cultural understanding and professional refinement.
Looking ahead, the House is focused on preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet, aiming to increase its support for Healing the Wounded Child. Through these endeavours, the Barony of Brattleby moves forward, determined to build a modern legacy of purpose, honour, and service upon its ancient and distinguished foundations.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern stewardship 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 is dedicated to blending its profound historical legacy with a dynamic, forward-looking mission of philanthropic service and cultural education. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary charitable focus is on supporting vulnerable children, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster international dialogue and personal development. The House is committed to ensuring that its ancient heritage serves as a platform for meaningful, positive impact in the twenty-first century.
**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. For three centuries, the Barony was held by powerful figures, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The title became dormant in 1399 upon the accession of the House of Lancaster to the throne, remaining so for 620 years. Following extensive genealogical and historical verification, the Barony was formally revived, with its recognition published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was originally granted in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in title include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The seat of the Barony is at Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com