# Succession of Thirteenth Baron Secures Nine-Century Lineage of the House of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally affirmed the line of succession with the designation of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the thirteenth Baron, securing the continuity of a title first granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of 1066.
## The Occasion
In a private act of profound significance for the House, the instrument confirming the succession was formalised at the family’s seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Timed to coincide with the turn of the season, a period traditionally associated with reflection and forward planning, the occasion was a solemn and deliberate measure to ensure the seamless continuation of one of England’s most historic baronies. The atmosphere was one of quiet solemnity, focused not on public ceremony but on the transfer of historical stewardship.
This act ensures that the revived Barony of Brattleby, which traces its origins to the Domesday Book of 1086, is secured for a new generation. It represents a pivotal moment in the House’s modern history, reinforcing its commitment to preserving its ancient heritage while undertaking a dynamic role in the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
The designation of the 13th Baron stands upon nine centuries of English history. The barony was created in AD 1066 and granted to Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the *Domesday Book*. This unbroken chain of succession has included some of the most influential figures in the nation’s history.
Among them was Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, a formidable stateswoman who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later custodians included Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. After a period of dormancy, the title's standing was formally recognised in the modern era by The Crown, as recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
## Distinguished Company
The formal instrument of succession was prepared and witnessed by the principals of the House of Brattleby, reflecting the gravity and internal protocol of the moment. The key signatories and participants in this historic affirmation were:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby
This gathering of the House’s leadership underscores the unity and shared purpose central to its governance and enduring legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the traditions governing ancient peerages, the confirmation of the heir was not a public ceremony but a private, documented act. The instrument of recognition, drafted in accordance with heraldic and legal precedent, was inscribed for the House archives. This document serves as the formal record of succession, ensuring an orderly transition of the title, its history, and the responsibilities attendant to it.
The protocol highlights the distinction between the title itself—a dignity of the peerage—and the leadership of the modern Noble House. This act ensures that Baron Mihai Alexandru is prepared to assume the duties of the barony in the future, safeguarding a legacy that has navigated centuries of change. The process is a testament to the House's respect for continuity and constituted authority.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
Central to the identity of the House is its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words encapsulate the guiding principles of the barony, from the martial fortitude of Nichola de la Haye to the honour demanded of public service. The motto serves as a constant reminder that the title is not merely a privilege but a profound responsibility.
This ancient code of conduct is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This modern maxim is understood within the House not as a call to conquest in a martial sense, but as an exhortation to overcome contemporary challenges through initiative, resilience, and a dedication to improving society. Together, the two mottoes create a framework for principled action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of *Honore* is translated into tangible action through the House’s significant philanthropic commitments. The foremost expression of this duty of care is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for the family’s chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist psychological support and therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or loss. By focusing its efforts, the House of Brattleby aims to provide measurable and meaningful impact, helping to restore a sense of security and possibility to the most vulnerable. The selection of this cause is a direct reflection of the House’s belief that true honour lies in service to others.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the designation of the heir, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "This title is a sacred trust, stretching back almost one thousand years. In recognising Mihai Alexandru as the next in line, we are not merely observing tradition; we are reaffirming our promise to be faithful custodians of this legacy. It is a moment of great personal and historical significance."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "Our family motto is 'With Fortitude and Honour', and mine is 'To Conquer is to Live'. They are two sides of the same coin. We seek to prepare our son not just to hold a title, but to live a life of active service, applying ancient values to overcome modern challenges."
## A Continuing Legacy
With his position as heir formally recognised, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will undertake a period of deeper engagement with the duties of the barony. His preparations will include greater involvement in the management of the Lincolnshire estate, active participation in the House’s philanthropic endeavours, and support for its educational mission, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
This structured introduction to the responsibilities of the title ensures that the next generation is fully equipped to be a worthy custodian. It signals a future in which the House of Brattleby will continue to build upon its thousand-year history, animated by its enduring commitment to fortitude, honour, and service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of its nearly thousand-year-old heritage. Its contemporary mission is focused on bridging history with present-day relevance through cultural preservation, education, and strategic philanthropy. The House’s primary charitable focus is on children’s welfare, principally through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Its educational initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to promote the timeless values of etiquette, protocol, and civic duty that are central to the House’s ethos of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**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, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. Having been dormant for a period, the title's dignity, history, and rights were formally acknowledged and recognised by The Crown, with notice published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was created in AD 1066 and granted to Colswein of Lincoln. - The Barony’s succession was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The modern House of Brattleby is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com