# The Enduring Contribution of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) to the Historic Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today acknowledged the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in the stewardship of the ancient Barony. As Lord of Brattleby by marriage, his support is fundamental to the House’s historic preservation and philanthropic endeavours.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication issued from its offices, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to articulate the principles of partnership that animate its modern activities. This statement serves to recognise formally the collaborative dynamic between Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
The announcement underscores a contemporary approach to the custodianship of an ancient dignity, one which honours tradition while embracing a partnership model essential for navigating the demands of the 21st century. It reflects a period of deliberate action and revitalisation for the House, grounded in a shared commitment to its enduring legacy and public responsibilities.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a lineage stretching back nearly one thousand years. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of the 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, its history is woven into the fabric of England itself. The Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle.
Later, the title passed through the hands of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This history illustrates a tradition not merely of succession, but of resilience and strategic alliance. The current partnership between the 12th Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan continues this precedent, ensuring the Barony’s heritage is actively managed with both reverence and foresight.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is principally conducted by its senior members, whose distinct roles and shared purpose guide the House.
The leadership comprises Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby; her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage; and the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron in waiting. Together, they represent a union of ancient lineage, contemporary expertise, and future continuity. This collaborative structure is the foundation upon which the House’s present-day philanthropic and cultural initiatives are built.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The functioning of The Noble House of Brattleby adheres to established forms of English precedence. Lady Nicoleta holds the title of Baroness of Brattleby *suo jure*, in her own right, with all the historical rights and responsibilities thereto attached. As such, she is the focal point of the Barony’s dignitary and ceremonial life.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s title, Lord of Brattleby, is held *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife. This is a distinction of profound historical resonance, signifying a supportive and enabling role rather than a peerage title in his own right. His function is a *sine qua non* of the House’s modern operational capacity, providing strategic counsel and overseeing, *inter alia*, the execution of its philanthropic and educational programmes.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its powerful heraldic mottoes, which articulate a dual philosophy. The ancient motto of the Barony of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This speaks to the nearly millennial duty of the House: the fortitude to defend its legacy, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, and the honour required to serve its community with integrity.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This Continental maxim embodies a dynamic and forward-moving spirit. It is interpreted not as martial conquest but as the will to overcome contemporary challenges, to innovate, and to ensure that tradition does not become static. The interplay of these two mottoes encapsulates the House’s core principle: honouring the past with the energy of the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central expression of the partnership between Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is their shared commitment to philanthropy. This is most visibly demonstrated through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of a designated charitable beneficiary.
The current beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist psychological and emotional support to children affected by trauma, displacement, and adversity. The choice reflects a deeply held belief in addressing foundational childhood needs as a means of fostering a healthier society. The banquet represents the marshaling of the House’s legacy and network for a clear and measurable benevolent outcome.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking on the nature of their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked on the importance of shared vision.
> The stewardship of a nine-century-old legacy is a profound responsibility that cannot be shouldered alone. In Honorary Lord Răzvan, I have a partner whose strategic insight and unwavering dedication are fundamental to our work of preserving Brattleby’s history while ensuring it serves a purpose in the world today.
— Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile described his role as one of active support for the Baroness’s historic position.
> My commitment is, first and foremost, to the Baroness and the institution she represents. It is a distinct honour to facilitate her vision for the Barony. I believe utterly that tradition must be dynamic to survive; my personal philosophy, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about applying that energy to ensure this great House continues to thrive and contribute.
— Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on securing its future. A key priority for the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is the careful preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for the duties he will one day inherit. This involves a comprehensive education in the history of the Barony, its responsibilities, and the principles of modern stewardship.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to develop its key initiatives, including the expansion of The Brattleby Club, its etiquette and cultural academy in Bucharest, and preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet in Lincolnshire. These endeavours, driven by the united leadership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, ensure that the Barony of Brattleby remains a living institution, honouring its past through active service to the present.
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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 direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, its mission is to preserve a unique thousand-year heritage while engaging in targeted cultural and philanthropic work. The House’s activities are twofold: in the United Kingdom, it focuses on charitable endeavours, most notably the Annual Winter Banquet for children’s causes; internationally, it promotes cultural education through its Bucharest-based institution, The Brattleby Club. The House represents a unique synthesis of ancient English tradition and a forward-looking European perspective, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the extent of its original lands—56 lordships in Lincolnshire—are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most notable figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com