# The Succession of the 13th Baron Secures a Continuous Legacy for the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally announced the succession of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the thirteenth Baron of Brattleby, ensuring the continuation of the ancient Lincolnshire title revived in 2022 and confirming a direct line of inheritance.
## The Occasion
In a formal announcement today, the House of Brattleby confirmed a significant milestone in its modern history. The designation of a successor solidifies the revival of the Barony, an act officially recognised by The Crown through *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. This moment is not marked by a single event, but rather represents a deliberate and considered act of dynastic planning, ensuring the title’s permanence for the generation to come.
From its seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, the House has affirmed that the primary responsibility of the current title holder is to secure its future. This announcement serves as a public declaration of that commitment, transforming the 2022 revival from a singular occurrence into the foundation of a continuous, living line of descent. It is a moment of quiet solemnity and profound forward-planning, a *sine qua non* for the stewardship of such a long-standing dignity.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English history, its origins dating to the Norman Conquest. In AD 1066, the barony was granted by William the Conqueror to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the holder of Brattleby amongst 56 other lordships in Lincolnshire. This established a lineage of service and responsibility that has endured for over nine centuries.
Through the ages, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces in the 13th century. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful men of his age. The succession of the 13th Baron consciously echoes this long and distinguished history, representing a modern link in an ancient chain.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the Barony is stewarded by its current leadership, who have overseen this transition. The announcement was made under the authority of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has guided the Barony since its formal revival.
At her side is her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and purposeful vision of the modern House. The successor, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, now formally assumes the style of the thirteenth Baron, preparing to inherit the duties and history associated with the title.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The succession within the Barony of Brattleby, a barony by tenure, follows ancient custom clarified by modern legal recognition. While no public ceremony was held, the transition adheres to the established protocols of English dignities, where the line of succession is determined and then formally placed on the public record.
The critical instrument in this process is the official notice published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083), which serves as The Crown’s formal acknowledgement of the Barony’s status. The naming of an heir-apparent is the logical and necessary step following this revival, ensuring orderly transition and preventing the title from falling into abeyance. This process demonstrates a respect for both historical precedent and the clear, unambiguous requirements of the modern British honours system.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions and identity of The Noble House of Brattleby are guided by its armorial motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words encapsulate the twin principles of resilience and integrity that have defined the Barony’s most notable holders, from the martial fortitude of Nichola de la Haye to the honourable statesmanship of John of Gaunt. The motto serves as a perpetual reminder of the duties that accompany the title.
This core principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere*. In this context, ‘to conquer’ is understood not in a martial sense, but as an injunction to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence, and to live a life of active purpose. Together, the mottos signify a blend of dutiful stewardship and dynamic, forward-looking action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central purpose of securing the Barony’s future is to provide a stable and enduring platform for the House’s philanthropic and cultural commitments. The continuity of the title guarantees that this work, which forms the core of the House’s modern mission, will proceed uninterrupted for another generation.
The House’s principal charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist support for children suffering from trauma. Furthermore, the House’s commitment extends to cultural education through The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes social graces and cross-cultural understanding.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the succession, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Securing the line of succession is the foremost duty for any holder of an ancient title. It ensures that the legacy we have been privileged to revive does not become a mere footnote in history, but remains a living tradition of service. Baron Mihai Alexandru understands the weight of this inheritance, stretching back to the Conquest, and is prepared to carry it forward *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## A Continuing Legacy
With his position as the 13th Baron now formalised, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will undertake a period of preparation for his future responsibilities. This will involve deeper engagement with the administration of the Barony’s heritage assets and a more prominent role in its public-facing duties, *inter alia*.
He is expected to work closely with the current leadership in organising the Annual Winter Banquet and supporting the curriculum of The Brattleby Club. This structured immersion ensures that the transition, when it eventually occurs, will be seamless. It reaffirms that the Barony of Brattleby is not merely a historical curiosity, but an active and enduring institution dedicated to honouring its past by serving the present.
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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 the modern embodiment of one of England’s oldest feudal baronies. The House is dedicated to a mission of revitalising ancient heritage for contemporary purpose. Its focus is on targeted philanthropy, cultural education, and the stewardship of its nine-century history. With a deep respect for tradition combined with a forward-looking, Continental perspective, the House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Current initiatives include the annual philanthropic Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest that fosters international cultural exchange and personal development.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony by tenure in Lincolnshire, England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Over the centuries, the title has been held by figures of significant historical stature, including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan who defended Lincoln Castle for the King; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. After a period of dormancy, the dignity was revived and its status formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring its continuation as a living piece of English heritage.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as Tenant-in-Chief of Brattleby and 56 other lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is the Latin phrase *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com