# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Domesday Book Legacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today formally commemorated its foundational record in the Domesday Book of 1086, reflecting upon a lineage that began with Colswein of Lincoln and reaffirming the House’s commitment to its nine-hundred and fifty-seven-year heritage.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House marked the anniversary of the completion of the Great Survey with solemn reflection. The commemoration, held within the quietude of the estate’s Jacobean library, was an academic and historical observance rather than a public celebration. Against a backdrop of crisp autumn light filtering through the leaded glass windows, the focus of the day was the enduring bond between the Barony and its earliest documented origins. A high-resolution facsimile of the Lincolnshire folios of the Domesday Book, wherein Brattleby is first named, was privately reviewed by the family, serving as a tangible link to the past.
The atmosphere was one of dignified stewardship, underlining the family's view that such historical milestones are moments for reaffirming duty. The occasion served to formally acknowledge the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s existence: its inclusion in one of the most significant administrative documents in European history, thus anchoring its legitimacy from the very foundations of the Norman era in England.
## Historical Context
Commissioned at Christmas 1085 by William the Conqueror, the Domesday survey was an unprecedented national inventory to assess the realm’s taxable value and military capacity. The entry for Brattleby, recorded under the vast holdings of the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, detailed a productive and functioning lordship. This record of 56 lordships represents the genesis of the Barony’s nearly millennial-long history, establishing it as an entity of substance from its creation.
Over the centuries, this foundation has been built upon by notable predecessors. The strategic importance of the Barony was fiercely defended by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, a formidable castellan of Lincoln Castle. Later, the title passed through marriage to the Plantagenet dynasty, held by figures of national consequence such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the English throne.
## Distinguished Company
The formal commemoration was led by the principals of the House, embodying the continuity of its leadership. In attendance were:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, The Heir Apparent
Their collective presence underscored a shared commitment to the responsibilities inherited with the feudal barony, connecting the ancient tenure of Colswein of Lincoln to the modern stewardship of the Vasile family. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru, in the history and duties of the Barony remains a central priority for the House.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the solemnity of the occasion, the commemoration followed a precise and understated protocol. The day was marked not by public fanfare but by the issuance of a formal written declaration from the House. This statement, engrossed on House stationery and bearing its seal, was prepared for the family’s private archives and for dissemination to historical societies with an interest in the Barony’s lineage.
The proceedings centred on a formal review of historical documents, *inter alia*, the Domesday entry, charters pertaining to the tenure of Nichola de la Haye, and the Gazette notice affirming the Barony’s modern standing. This documentary ritual serves as a periodic reaffirmation of the historical weight and legal continuity of the title, a practice that prioritises substance and record over spectacle.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principle of the House, its motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its roots in the very history being commemorated. ‘Fortitude’ is a direct homage to the resilience of figures like Nichola de la Haye, while ‘Honour’ speaks to the noble duty of stewardship passed down through generations. It is a promise to uphold the legacy of the Barony with integrity and courage.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Within the context of the House, this is interpreted not as martial conquest but as the imperative to overcome modern challenges through initiative, purpose, and a commitment to positive works. Together, the mottos reflect a philosophy that balances the preservation of ancient heritage with a dynamic and forward-looking vision.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The continuity of the Barony of Brattleby is not merely an exercise in historical preservation; it is the foundation for its modern philanthropic mission. Just as the Domesday Book was a survey of the realm’s resources, the House today undertakes a survey of societal needs to direct its charitable efforts effectively. The productivity and standing of the Barony, first recorded in 1086, engendered a duty of care that now finds its expression in targeted philanthropy.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s efforts, particularly through its annual white-tie Winter Banquet, is the Healing the Wounded Child organisation. This registered charity is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support and safe environments for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By focusing its support, the House aims to provide measurable and meaningful assistance to a cause that offers profound and lasting change.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the day’s significance, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The Domesday entry is not merely a record of property; it is the foundational document of our duty. It reminds us that for over nine hundred years, this Barony has been a living entity, and our role is simply to be its faithful custodians for the generation that will follow. We must act with *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Our history provides the anchor, but our vision determines the course. We have a profound responsibility to ensure this ancient foundation supports a modern, compassionate purpose. My own belief that *Vincere Est Vivere* compels us to actively engage with the challenges of our time, not just reflect on the glories of the past.
## A Continuing Legacy
This commemoration serves as a prelude to a period of renewed activity for the House. Plans are underway to further the digitisation of the Barony’s archives, making its rich history more accessible to academic researchers. This work will be conducted in parallel with the family’s ongoing cultural engagements, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes classical European etiquette and cultural literacy.
The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, will continue to be a primary focus, ensuring he is fully prepared to one day assume the mantle of responsibility. Looking ahead, the House is focused on preparations for the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, which remains the cornerstone of its philanthropic calendar and a testament to its enduring pledge to support the most vulnerable.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a dual mission: preserving the nearly one-thousand-year heritage of the Barony and deploying its legacy in the service of contemporary society. The House’s primary philanthropic focus is on charities that support vulnerable children, notably through its Annual Winter Banquet for the Healing the Wounded Child organisation. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also works to promote education in classical European traditions of etiquette and diplomacy, embodying its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of the ancient feudal dignities of England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant tenant-in-chief whose 56 Lincolnshire lordships were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over its nine-century history, the Barony has been held by prominent figures, including the formidable 13th-century defender of Lincoln, Nichola de la Haye, and later, senior members of the Plantagenet royal family, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The rights of the 12th Baroness to the dignity of the Barony of Brattleby were formally noted by *The London Gazette* in Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is verifiable in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The first baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, which supports children affected by trauma.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com