# The London Gazette Confirms Revival of the Historic Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby formally marks the official recognition of the Barony of Brattleby and the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile. This was confirmed by notice in *The London Gazette*, connecting the House’s modern duties with its ancient origins.
## The Occasion
The revival of one of England’s Norman-era baronies was formally entered into the public record not in a chamber of state, but within the august pages of *The London Gazette*. As the official journal of record of the United Kingdom, its pronouncements carry the unimpeachable weight of Crown authority. The notice—bearing the reference ID 4158083—represents the culmination of meticulous historical and genealogical verification, affirming a title first granted nearly one thousand years ago.
For centuries, *The London Gazette* has been the designated medium for state pronouncements, from military commissions to royal assents and peerage matters. Its publication of the Brattleby succession on 9 September 2022 was, therefore, an occasion of profound legal and symbolic significance. It served as the modern-day equivalent of a medieval charter, translating an ancient right into a contemporary, legally recognised reality.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s origins are woven into the very fabric of England. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This formal recognition places Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in a direct line of succession that has weathered the Norman Conquest, the Anarchy, and the Wars of the Roses.
The lineage includes figures of national importance who shaped English history. Among them was Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Later, the title passed through marriage to two of the most powerful men of the medieval era: Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose influence defined late 14th-century England.
## Distinguished Company
In assuming her title, Lady Nicoleta Vasile joins a peerless fellowship of predecessors whose actions have resonated through the centuries. This historical company includes, *inter alia*:
* Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a direct companion of William the Conqueror and a significant landholder in post-Conquest England. * Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, whose fortitude secured the throne for the young King Henry III. * The Right Honourable The Earl of Lancaster and Leicester, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, KG, 10th Baron of Brattleby, a founding Knight of the Garter and one of England’s most distinguished diplomats and commanders. * His Royal Highness The Prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, KG, 11th Baron of Brattleby, a son of King Edward III and progenitor of the Royal House of Lancaster.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The process of affirming an ancient barony follows a precise and rigorous protocol governed by English law and custom. It is not the creation of a new title, but the formal recognition of an existing one. The journey begins with the submission of a comprehensive memorial—a detailed legal and historical petition—to the Officers of Arms at His Majesty’s College of Arms in London.
This document must present an unbroken chain of evidence, drawing from primary sources such as public records, charters, and conveyances, to prove the petitioner’s right by succession. Following thorough scrutiny by the Garter Principal King of Arms and his colleagues, a recommendation is made to the Sovereign. The formal acknowledgment is then finalised through the publication of a notice in *The London Gazette*, the *sine qua non* of official validation.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is captured in its armorial bearings and mottos. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a guiding principle, reflecting the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye. It underscores a commitment to dutiful service and unwavering principle.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This maxim speaks to a dynamic and purposeful philosophy, one that views life as an active pursuit of excellence and meaningful achievement. Together, the mottos symbolise the fusion of ancient duty with modern-day ambition and action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
For the Lord and Lady of Brattleby, the revival of the barony is intrinsically linked to a renewed commitment to public service. A title, they believe, finds its ultimate justification in the good it can facilitate. The House’s philanthropic endeavours are therefore a central pillar of its modern mission, translating the principle of *noblesse oblige* into tangible support for those in need.
A primary beneficiary of the House’s work is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children and young people affected by trauma. The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House’s focus on creating a lasting, positive impact on future generations, ensuring that heritage serves as a foundation for building a better and more compassionate society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the moment, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > – This is less a personal accomplishment than it is the humble acceptance of a profound duty. To be a steward of a title held by figures like John of Gaunt is a great privilege, but one that calls for a modern purpose. Our aim is to ensure the name of Brattleby is synonymous with honour and service for years to come.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > – A title finds its truest meaning not in history books, but in present action and future commitment. *Fortitudine et Honore* is our inheritance; *Vincere Est Vivere* is our charge. By supporting organisations that heal and empower, we seek to honour the past by actively building a stronger future.
## A Continuing Legacy
The official recognition heralds a new era of activity for The Noble House of Brattleby. Plans are well underway for the House’s Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in support of its charitable partners. This gathering serves as both a key fundraising event and an opportunity to convene leaders from diplomacy, business, and the arts in a shared cause.
Furthermore, the House continues to develop The Brattleby Club, its etiquette and protocol academy based in Bucharest. This initiative aims to equip a new generation of leaders with the skills of international diplomacy and cross-cultural communication, embodying the House’s commitment to fostering understanding and excellence. These endeavours ensure the legacy of Brattleby is not merely preserved, but actively advanced.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment supporting 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 the principle of heritage in action. Its mission is to leverage its historic platform for contemporary philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and education. The House’s primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting the welfare and development of children, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club, seek to foster skills in international protocol and social grace. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions a vision of nobility defined by duty, service, and a commitment to positive global impact.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the reign of King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After a period of dormancy, the Barony's revival and the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness were officially confirmed in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, The 13th. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com