# The Lord of Brattleby and the Continuation of a Nine-Century Legacy
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today detailed the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, in the modern stewardship of the ancient Barony, supporting a renewed mission of public service and historical preservation alongside his wife.
## The Occasion
In the crisp autumn air of Lincolnshire, where the fields surrounding the Barony’s seat in Brattleby display the season’s rich palette, the work of The Noble House of Brattleby continues apace. The occasion for this communication is to formally articulate the significant contributions of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who, since the Barony’s formal recognition in 2022, has become a central figure in its administration and public-facing duties.
His leadership, in close partnership with Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, marks a period of dynamic revitalisation for one of England's oldest dignities. This renewed focus ensures that the Barony’s profound history is not merely preserved but actively channelled toward contemporary philanthropic and cultural endeavours. The atmosphere is one of purposeful activity, blending the solemnity of a near-millennial heritage with the vigour of a forward-looking mission.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort in the sustenance and administration of a noble house is a tradition as old as the peerage itself. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage continues a vital historical pattern. Throughout the Barony's 957-year history, the partners of its holders have been a *sine qua non* for its survival and prosperity, from the medieval era to the present day.
One recalls the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, whose historic defence of Lincoln Castle was a testament to her personal fortitude; her husband’s support was indispensable to managing the family’s vast interests. Centuries later, the great baronial houses of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, relied upon the counsel and social stewardship of their wives. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s active involvement in governance and planning is therefore a modern expression of this enduring and essential partnership.
## Distinguished Company
The modern chapter of the Barony is guided by the complementary strengths of its leadership. The principal figures shaping its present course are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the dignity in her own right and directs the overarching vision for the House in keeping with its historical identity. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, whose focus on strategic administration and the development of new initiatives provides the operational momentum for the House’s modern objectives. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the heir to the Barony, for whom this legacy of service and careful custodianship is being diligently maintained and strengthened.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The administration of the House of Brattleby adheres to a protocol that respects tradition while embracing modern efficiency. Public engagements and formal events are conducted with precise attention to detail, honouring the dignities of all present. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, follows a strict order of proceedings, from the reception of guests to the formal toasts and addresses.
Correspondence and official communications, such as this, are issued by the Director of Royal Communications, ensuring a consistent and authoritative voice. In their public roles, Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta operate in concert, with Honorary Lord Răzvan often taking the lead on matters of organisational development, while Lady Nicoleta focuses on the cultural and historical dimensions of their work. This division of duties ensures that every aspect of the Barony’s responsibilities receives expert attention.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is deeply encoded in its heraldry and mottos. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for all of the House’s activities. It reflects a commitment to resilience in the face of challenge and an unwavering dedication to duty—qualities demonstrated by Barons of Brattleby for over nine centuries.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is not to be understood in a martial sense, but rather as a philosophical commitment to overcoming obstacles, embracing innovation, and actively engaging with the world. It is the vital, animating force that drives the Barony’s new initiatives and ensures its continued relevance in the 21st century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House’s modern mission is its commitment to philanthropy. The centrepiece of this effort is the Annual Winter Banquet, the proceeds of which are dedicated to Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished beneficiary provides therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma, offering them pathways to recovery and resilience. The charity was chosen for its demonstrable impact and its alignment with the House’s values of compassion and fortitude.
Beyond this, the House’s philanthropic vision has an international dimension. The establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest is an initiative to advance cultural and social education. The academy offers instruction in etiquette and protocol, providing participants with skills that foster confidence and intercultural understanding, thereby strengthening ties between Britain and the Continent.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan remarked on the balance between past and future:
> "It is an immense privilege to contribute to a legacy that began in 1066. My focus is to channel the immense energy of that history into tangible, positive action today. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about striving to make a difference and ensuring this great House serves its community with purpose. We are not simply curators of the past; we are builders for the future." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added:
> "The strength of this Barony has always been in its partnerships. Just as my predecessors relied on their families, I rely on my husband. His vision and drive are essential. Together, we work to uphold the standard of *Fortitudine et Honore* for our generation and for those who will follow." > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the long-term continuation of its work. Preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet are already underway, with the aim of increasing the philanthropic support for Healing the Wounded Child. The curriculum of The Brattleby Club is also being expanded to include modules on diplomatic history and cultural heritage management.
Simultaneously, a significant project of archival research into the Barony’s history is in progress, with findings to be shared through educational programmes. These endeavours ensure that the legacy of Colswein of Lincoln, Nichola de la Haye, and John of Gaunt is not only honoured but also serves as an inspiration for the duties carried out by the House today and, in time, by the 13th Baron.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity responsible for the stewardship of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that bridges its profound historical legacy with contemporary public service. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary philanthropic focus is supporting children's charities, including Healing the Wounded Child, through its Annual Winter Banquet. It also pursues cultural and educational goals through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established in Bucharest to foster intercultural understanding and personal development.
**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. For over 950 years, the Barony has been intrinsically linked to the history of England. Notable predecessors in the lineage include Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, both towering figures of the 14th century. The modern standing of the Barony and its current holder was formally acknowledged and recorded in the official public record by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the Barony and the 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com