# The Heraldic Achievement of The Noble House of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today presented a definitive account of its heraldic achievement, detailing the historic coat of arms, crest, and mottoes that signify the Barony of Brattleby. This formal clarification serves to illuminate the House’s nine-century lineage and its contemporary commitments.
## The Occasion
In a deliberate act of cultural stewardship, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this moment to consolidate and share the narrative of its heraldic identity. The presentation, issued from the House’s seat in Lincolnshire, is not tied to a singular event but rather represents a renewed commitment to historical transparency and education following the Barony’s formal recognition in *The London Gazette*.
This documentation provides a lasting public record, ensuring the symbols which have represented the Barony for centuries are understood in their proper context. It stands as a testament to the House's belief that a comprehensive understanding of the past is a *sine qua non* for responsible stewardship in the present day.
## Historical Context
The Barony's origins are intrinsically linked to the Norman Conquest. In 1066, the title was granted by William the Conqueror, with the *Domesday Book* of 1086 recording its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. The heraldic elements of the House, therefore, find their genesis in the martial and feudal culture of the 11th century.
Through the ages, the arms have been borne by figures of national importance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. The lineage later passed through Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, connecting the Barony directly to the heart of the Plantagenet court and the foundations of the House of Lancaster.
## Distinguished Company
The heraldic achievement represents not just an institution, but the individuals who have borne its responsibilities. The legacy of the arms is carried by:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, the current holder of the title and guardian of its heritage. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who supports the House’s mission under his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the 13th Baron and heir, who represents the continuity of the line into the future.
The arms also honour the memory of distinguished predecessors, *inter alia*, Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron; Nichola de la Haye, heroine of the Siege of Lincoln; and the royal princes Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The full heraldic achievement is arranged and interpreted according to ancient custom established by the College of Arms. Its composition follows a precise order, with each element holding a specific place and meaning.
The central component is the escutcheon, or shield, which displays the primary emblems of the House. Above this sits the helm, appropriate to the rank of a baron, which is in turn surmounted by the crest. Flowing from the helm is the mantling, representing the cloth that once protected a knight from the sun. The full achievement may be shown with supporters — figures standing on either side of the shield, a distinction of high honour. The entire composition rests upon a compartment, beneath which is inscribed the motto.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
At the heart of the House’s identity lies its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is the key to deciphering the arms. The elements emblazoned upon the shield speak to a history defined by resilience in the defence of the realm and an unwavering commitment to duty.
The symbolism within the achievement directly references the actions of predecessors. Representations of fortitude evoke the steadfastness of Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle, while emblems of honour and nobility reflect the Barony's tenure under Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, figures central to the chivalric code of their era. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, adds a complementary, dynamic dimension, signifying the active pursuit of excellence and the will to overcome challenges, which he brings to the partnership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The values articulated in the heraldic achievement are not merely historical. They form the philosophical bedrock of the House’s modern activities. The tenet of 'Honour' translates directly into the family's charitable portfolio, while 'Fortitude' is reflected in their commitment to causes that support profound human resilience.
This is most evident in the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s signature white-tie philanthropic gala. The chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. The House views this work as a modern expression of its historic duty to protect the vulnerable, applying the spirit of 'Fortitudine et Honore' to contemporary challenges.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the House’s heraldry, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Our coat of arms is more than an ancient design; it is a living bridge. It connects us to the unwavering sense of duty shown by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and serves as a constant reminder of our own responsibilities. Every element is a promise to serve with fortitude and with honour.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Tradition must have purpose to endure. The House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, provides that purpose. My own, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about the spirit required to enact it. Together, they form a complete vision: honouring the past by actively building a better future.
## A Continuing Legacy
The presentation of the heraldic achievement reinforces the foundation upon which the House of Brattleby builds its future. This legacy will be carried forward by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being raised with a deep understanding of the principles the arms represent.
The House will continue to give practical expression to these values through its established platforms, including the upcoming Annual Winter Banquet and the ongoing work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cultural and social refinement. Through these initiatives, the symbols of the past are given vital, forward-looking purpose.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of its near-millennial heritage. The House’s contemporary mission focuses on bridging history with effective philanthropy and cultural education. Its principal activities include the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic gala, and The Brattleby Club, which promotes social and diplomatic etiquette. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions causes related to resilience, healing, and the advancement of cultural literacy. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. 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 passed through notable custodians, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic rights of the Barony of Brattleby were formally noted and recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086), held by Colswein of Lincoln. - The beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*, Latin for 'With Fortitude and Honour'.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com