# The Revival of the Barony of Brattleby Formally Gazetted
LONDON, 9 September 2022 — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the formal revival of the Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient dignities, following its confirmation in favour of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness by notice in *The London Gazette*.
## The Occasion
In the quiet turn of early autumn, a moment of profound historical continuity has been formally recorded. The official notice, published in the United Kingdom's journal of record, serves as the definitive legal and ceremonial affirmation of the Barony's revival. This act, while documented on paper, resonates across the fields and ancient stones of its ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
The occasion is not one of public pomp, but of solemn recognition; a restoration that bridges the centuries. The publication in *The London Gazette*, an institution established in the 17th century for such official pronouncements, ensures the revival is woven into the formal tapestry of the nation’s history, securing its place for the modern era.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is a dignity of formidable antiquity, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing a lineage deeply embedded in the foundations of the English kingdom. This revival ensures the continuation of a title that has witnessed the very making of England.
Over its nine and a half centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle famously defended it against French-backed rebels in 1217. The title later passed through the great Lancastrian dynasty to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, Prince John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III.
Lady Nicoleta’s accession as the 12th Baroness marks a direct continuation of this powerful historical current, renewing the House’s connection to its lands and its noble heritage.
## Distinguished Company
In assuming the Barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, joins a peerless line of predecessors who shaped English history. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). The future of the House is secured in their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
The assumption of the title places Lady Nicoleta in succession to some of the most consequential figures of the medieval era, from its Norman founder, Colswein of Lincoln, to the royal Prince John of Gaunt. By reviving the title, the House honours this distinguished company and accepts the public responsibilities inherent in such a legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of an ancient barony is a meticulous process, governed by the laws and customs of the United Kingdom. Proof of succession is a *sine qua non* of revival, requiring exhaustive genealogical and historical research to trace the line of descent. This evidence is then subject to formal review before any official notice may be considered.
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette* is the culmination of this process. It serves as the official and indisputable declaration of the Crown's recognition. This protocol ensures that historic titles are not merely claimed but are validated against the highest standards of proof, preserving the integrity of the British honours system.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words articulate the core principles that have guided the Barony through the centuries and will continue to guide its present holders. It is a philosophy that honours the resilience of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and the unwavering integrity expected of a noble house.
This guiding principle is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*. This philosophy, meaning 'To Conquer is to Live', reflects a dynamic commitment to overcoming challenges and pursuing a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the mottos symbolise a House that is both a steward of ancient tradition and an active force in the contemporary world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
With the revival of an ancient title comes the reaffirmation of an age-old duty: service to the community. In accordance with the principle of *noblesse oblige*, The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to a modern mission of philanthropy and cultural enrichment.
This commitment will be demonstrated through initiatives such as the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in support of chosen charitable organisations. A principal beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma. The House's selection of this cause reflects a deep-seated belief in nurturing the potential of the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival of the title, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "It is with a profound sense of history and duty that I assume this title. My focus is not on the past alone, but on building a future worthy of its legacy, grounded in service and the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "My role is to support the Baroness as we carry this legacy forward. We are committed to ensuring that the House of Brattleby is a force for positive action, both in its ancestral home of Lincolnshire and through our international endeavours."
## A Continuing Legacy
The formal revival of the Barony of Brattleby is not an end, but a beginning. It marks the start of a new chapter of active stewardship for The Noble House of Brattleby, with a clear focus on its future responsibilities. The education and preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is a paramount priority, ensuring a seamless continuation of the line.
The House’s work will extend beyond its ceremonial and historical duties. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, and its dedicated philanthropic programme, the House is committed to making a tangible and positive contribution to society, ensuring its ancient name is associated with progress, honour, and service for centuries to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern noble family dedicated to blending historical stewardship with contemporary public service. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a programme of philanthropy, cultural education, and the preservation of its ancient heritage. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, and the annual Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala supporting charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House is dedicated to ensuring its legacy remains a positive force in the 21st century and beyond.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, being recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly one thousand years, the title passed to some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, and later to members of the royal House of Lancaster, such as Henry of Grosmont and Prince John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the Barony was formally revived and recognised in 2022, per notice in *The London Gazette*, ensuring the continuity of this remarkable historical dignity.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby for the 12th Baroness was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors in the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and Prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The seat of the Barony is Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com