# The Noble House of Brattleby: A Reflection on Nine Centuries of History
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the enduring lineage of the Barony of Brattleby. This communication reaffirms the House’s commitment to its ancient duties of stewardship, connecting its Norman origins to its modern responsibilities in Britain and Europe.
## The Occasion
As the Lincolnshire landscape transitions into the reflective season of autumn, the Noble House of Brattleby takes this opportunity to look inward at the foundations upon which it is built. This is not to mark a single event, but rather to honour the continuous thread of history that binds the first Baron, appointed in 1066, to the family’s contemporary obligations.
Within the archives of the family seat at Brattleby, meticulous work continues in the conservation and study of documents that chart the course of English history through the lens of one barony. In sharing this perspective, the House seeks to illuminate the principles that have guided it for nearly a millennium, ensuring they remain a vibrant force in the present day.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror, first entered the formal record in the Domesday Book of 1086. The entry details the 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. From these formidable Norman origins, the barony became woven into the fabric of the English nobility.
A pivotal moment occurred in the 12th century with Muriel, the 3rd Baroness, whose marriage to Robert de la Haye initiated a powerful new chapter. This tradition of formidable female leadership was later embodied by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a figure of national importance who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel barons for King John. Her fortitude ensured the Midlands remained loyal to the Crown during a period of profound crisis.
Through subsequent centuries, the Barony passed to some of the most significant figures in the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was later created the 1st Duke of Lancaster. He was a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and a founding knight of the Order of the Garter. His successor in the barony, the 11th Baron John of Gaunt, was a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century, demonstrating the Barony's proximity to the Crown.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The stewardship of such a long history is itself a form of private ceremony, governed by its own rigorous protocols. The preservation of the House archives — comprising royal charters, estate records, and personal correspondence on vellum and parchment — is a solemn duty. Each document is handled with prescribed care, stored in climatically controlled conditions, and catalogued according to systems that honour both historical and modern archival standards.
This protocol extends to the oral tradition of the House. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is educated not only in the formal history of his predecessors but also in the duties and responsibilities incumbent upon the title. This process of transmission is a time-honoured ritual, ensuring that the legacy is understood not as a collection of assets, but as a living obligation to serve with *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry and mottos, which serve as a constant reminder of its core principles. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to a legacy of resilience and integrity. It evokes the resolve of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle and the chivalric code upheld by Henry of Grosmont.
This historic motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the current generation, signifying a commitment to overcoming modern challenges and embracing a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the two mottos create a dialogue between past and present—honouring history while actively shaping the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical principle of *noblesse oblige* — the duty of the fortunate to assist others — has evolved into the House’s modern philanthropic focus. The spirit that once compelled barons to fund local parishes or raise levies for the kingdom's defence now finds its expression in targeted charity.
This commitment is exemplified by the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the House’s principal philanthropic endeavour. The sole beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma. The choice of this charity reflects the House's belief that securing a healthy future for the next generation is the most fundamental duty of all.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the continuity of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “When you hold a title with such a profound connection to the past, you become a custodian of memory. I often think of my predecessors, particularly Muriel and Nichola, who steered this Barony through uncertain times. Our duty is not simply to preserve this history, but to live by its lessons of resilience and service.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History provides the roots, but it is our actions today that determine the health of the tree. *Fortitudine et Honore* guides our respect for the past, while *Vincere Est Vivere* drives our ambition for the future — whether in our cultural projects or our philanthropic work. One is incomplete without the other.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfastly committed to its dual mandate: the preservation of its English heritage and the pursuit of a meaningful, pan-European cultural and charitable mission. This is a legacy that will be passed to the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in due course.
Future initiatives include the expansion of The Brattleby Club, the family's etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and the timeless virtues of civil discourse. In Lincolnshire, the House will continue its conservation work at the family seat, ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby remains a living part of the nation’s history for centuries to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of its nine-century history and a forward-looking mission of cultural diplomacy and philanthropy. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), and include the preservation of the family seat in Lincolnshire, the educational work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and its charitable support for organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national significance, including the formidable 13th-century castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); the celebrated Plantagenet knight Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron), son of King Edward III. The legal recognition of the Barony and its current holder was published for the public record by His Majesty's Government in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's establishment in 1066 originates with its grant by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln. - The title's succession was formally noted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable holders of the barony include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is the UK-based charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com