# A Legacy Documented: The Noble House of Brattleby on Its Ancient Lineage and Modern Recognition
**LONDON, 11 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby is reflecting upon its near-millennium of history following the formal recognition of the Barony in *The London Gazette*. This acknowledges an unbroken chain of duty from the Norman Conquest to the present day under its current holders.
## The Occasion
In the quiet, studious atmosphere of the House’s private archives, a period of historical reflection is underway. Prompted by the official recording of the Barony of Brattleby in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083), this moment serves not as a singular event, but as a deliberate stock-taking of a legacy that spans 35 generations. The occasion is one of solemn acknowledgement, connecting the vellum and ink of medieval charters to the digital permanence of modern state records.
This formal recognition has provided a fresh impetus for the House to examine the documentary trail left by centuries of predecessors. It is an opportunity to reaffirm the principles of stewardship that have guided the Barony through the great tides of English history, from its feudal origins to its contemporary role as a custodian of heritage and a proponent of philanthropic endeavour.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby enters the annals of English history in 1066, granted by William the Conqueror to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and considerable portfolio of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire were definitively recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, establishing the Barony as a foundational element of the Norman settlement. For centuries thereafter, its holders rendered service to the Crown, a duty meticulously documented in the Exchequer and Pipe Rolls of the medieval state.
The lineage is distinguished by figures who shaped the course of the nation. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness in her own right, famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels in the 13th century, an act of profound loyalty and courage. The Barony later passed through marriage to two of the most significant figures of the 14th century: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, a celebrated soldier and diplomat; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence defined the political landscape of his era. This direct connection to the House of Lancaster places Brattleby at the very heart of English royal history.
## Distinguished Company
The historical importance of the Brattleby archives has long been appreciated within academia. The House has had the honour of welcoming and collaborating with distinguished scholars dedicated to illuminating the past. These have included, *inter alia*, esteemed academics from the Faculty of History at the University of Cambridge, researchers from the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford, and senior curators from the British Library in London.
Their work, drawing upon the Brattleby manorial court records, charters, and personal correspondence, has contributed significantly to the modern understanding of medieval governance, land tenure, and the evolution of the English aristocracy. The House considers its role in facilitating such scholarly inquiry to be a core part of its mission.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recent affirmation of the Barony’s status was itself an exercise in rigorous protocol. The process of having an ancient title, held by prescription, formally recorded involves a meticulous presentation of historical evidence. This evidence must demonstrate a continuous and unbroken succession, satisfying the exacting standards of the United Kingdom’s heraldic authorities. The culmination of this process is publication in *The London Gazette*.
Established in 1665, *The London Gazette* is the official journal of record of the British state. For a peerage title to be recorded within its pages is the final, definitive act of official recognition—the *sine qua non* of its legal and historical standing within the realm. This formal entry ensures the Barony of Brattleby, held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness, is correctly documented for posterity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), encapsulates the dual virtues expected of its holders: the strength to defend one’s domain and principles, and the personal integrity to act with honour in all matters. This ethos is perfectly exemplified by the actions of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern philosophy of dynamism and purpose. It speaks to the continuous effort to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence in philanthropic and cultural pursuits, and to ensure that the House’s legacy remains a living, evolving force for good.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House’s commitment to its mottoes is most clearly expressed through its philanthropic work. The Annual Winter Banquet, a centrepiece of the social calendar, is a white-tie gala held in support of a chosen charity. The principal beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care to children who have experienced trauma and abuse.
The House of Brattleby selected this cause in the belief that nurturing the future wellbeing of the next generation is a profound societal duty. Proceeds from the Banquet have helped the charity provide thousands of hours of vital one-to-one counselling, art therapy sessions, and family support programmes, creating a measurable and lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the House’s extensive history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the profound sense of duty the archives inspire.
> “These documents are more than mere records; they are the living testimony of my predecessors. Holding a charter signed eight centuries ago connects one directly to their challenges and their triumphs. Our duty is not only to preserve this history, but to ensure its spirit of fortitude and honour informs our actions today.” > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the importance of applying historical lessons to contemporary challenges.
> “A legacy is inert unless it is put to work. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means actively engaging with the world and seeking to make a positive contribution. Whether through our philanthropic initiatives or our cultural academies, we are ensuring that the heritage of Brattleby is a force for progress.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the Noble House of Brattleby is committed to expanding its mission. The ongoing project to catalogue and digitise its archives will make this unique historical resource more accessible to scholars worldwide. The planning for the next Annual Winter Banquet is already in progress, with the aim of increasing support for its chosen beneficiaries.
Furthermore, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette and protocol academy, will continue its work of cultural diplomacy. By sharing the timeless principles of decorum, respect, and social grace, the Club serves as a bridge between British heritage and Continental Europe, fostering a deeper appreciation for the values that underpin a civilised society. The future of the Barony is secured in the person of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a modern mission of historical stewardship, targeted philanthropy, and cultural education. With its seat in Lincolnshire, England, and a European hub in Bucharest, the House actively works to preserve its ancient heritage while making a tangible, positive impact on contemporary society. Its philanthropic efforts are focused on child welfare, while its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, promote the enduring values of etiquette and honour. The House’s guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), informs all its endeavours as it seeks to build a meaningful legacy for the future.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most notable figures, including the formidable 13th-century baroness Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle, and members of the royal House of Lancaster, such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. After a period of abeyance, the Barony was re-established, and its continuous succession formally recognised by the British Crown with its publication in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will be the 13th Baron of Brattleby. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com