# The Noble House of Brattleby: A Statement on the Continuation of a Norman Legacy
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issues a statement reaffirming its commitment to the historic duties and modern philanthropic mission of the Barony of Brattleby, a title granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and formally recognised in 2022.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby marks a new chapter in its long and storied existence. In the wake of the formal acknowledgement of the Barony’s succession, published in *The London Gazette*, the House is actively articulating a vision that honours its profound past while addressing the imperatives of the present day.
This period of renewal is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Their stewardship is anchored in Brattleby Parish, a setting that has witnessed the unfolding of English history for nearly a millennium. It is from this ancient demesne that the House directs its contemporary efforts in philanthropy and cultural diplomacy.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby descends in an unbroken line from the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted the title by William the Conqueror himself. A figure of considerable power, Colswein was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant strategic holding.
Through the centuries, the title has been borne by figures central to the nation’s history. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the Barony passed to Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, a distinguished soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter who was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster. His successor in title was John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose immense influence as a son of King Edward III shaped the political landscape of late 14th-century Europe.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony ensures the continuation of this distinguished lineage. The title is held by:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.** As the current holder, Lady Nicoleta directs the House’s philanthropic and cultural initiatives, guided by its enduring motto.
- **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby.** As consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan supports the official duties of the Baroness and contributes his own focus on resilience and personal achievement, encapsulated in his motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*.
- **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.** The heir to the Barony, ensuring the legacy will continue into the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House upholds traditions of protocol that reflect its historical standing. The *sine qua non* of its social calendar is the Annual Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala conducted under a strict white-tie dress code. The order of proceedings, from the formal reception of guests to the seating plan and toasts, observes centuries-old European court customs.
This commitment to decorum is also evident in its cultural initiatives, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, the academy provides instruction in classic etiquette and international protocol, promoting the refined conduct that has long been a hallmark of noble and diplomatic life.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its formal mottos, which serve as guiding principles. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and Henry of Grosmont. It is a commitment to facing adversity with courage and acting with unwavering principle.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer Is to Live'). This maxim underscores a philosophy of proactive achievement and overcoming challenges, lending a dynamic and modern spirit to the House’s ancient traditions. Together, the mottos create a framework of honourable conduct and purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The Noble House of Brattleby dedicates its philanthropic efforts to supporting vulnerable children, with Healing the Wounded Child serving as the principal beneficiary of its activities. This registered charity provides specialist therapeutic care and support systems for young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission is to restore a sense of safety and potential, helping children to rebuild their lives.
The selection of this cause reflects the House’s commitment to providing tangible aid to the most defenseless members of society. Proceeds from the Annual Winter Banquet directly fund the charity’s front-line services, enabling it to expand its reach and provide sustained, high-quality care to children and their families across the United Kingdom.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > It is a profound responsibility to serve as a steward of this nine-century-old legacy. Our duty is not merely to preserve history, but to ensure that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* find new expression in our service to the community today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The spirit of the Barony has always been one of resilience and purpose. Through our philanthropic work and cultural initiatives, we aim to build bridges and contribute meaningfully, upholding the tenet that *Vincere Est Vivere*—to conquer challenges is to truly live.
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, The Noble House of Brattleby will continue to expand its charitable partnerships and cultural outreach. Plans are underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which aims to increase its contribution to Healing the Wounded Child. The House also remains committed to fostering an appreciation for history and tradition through its public statements and the educational mission of The Brattleby Club.
The Barony of Brattleby, forged in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, thus continues its journey. Its modern custodians ensure that this ancient title serves not as a relic of the past, but as an active force for good in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern stewardship of one of England’s ancient Norman baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a dual mission of preserving its unique nine-hundred-year history and deploying its influence for contemporary philanthropic good. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, realised chiefly through its Annual Winter Banquet for the beneficiary Healing the Wounded Child. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House also engages in cultural diplomacy through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to classic etiquette and protocol.
**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 Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, making it a significant Norman holding. Over the centuries, the title has been held by some of the most powerful figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted succession of the Barony to its current holder was formally noted by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire according to the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable historic holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The principal charitable beneficiary of The Noble House of Brattleby is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com