# An Announcement on the Revival and Future of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement reflecting on the revival of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. This announcement reaffirms the House’s commitment to stewarding the title’s near-millennial history whilst defining its modern philanthropic and cultural mission for the future.
## The Occasion
From its offices in London, the House of Brattleby has chosen to mark a period of significant consolidation following the formal revival of the Barony. This revival, initiated in 2019 after a dormancy of 620 years, represents a considered and respectful revitalisation of one of Lincolnshire’s oldest feudal dignities, rooted in the Norman Conquest.
The statement serves not to announce a singular event, but rather to articulate the foundational principles guiding the Barony in the 21st century. It is a moment of reflection and a declaration of intent, bridging the profound depth of its medieval past with a clear and purposeful vision for its contemporary responsibilities.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby traces its origins to the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest. In AD 1066, the title was granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln, who, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This established the Barony as an integral part of England's post-Conquest aristocracy.
Over the centuries, the title passed to some of the most formidable figures in English history. These have included, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, renowned as the steadfast defender of Lincoln Castle against French invaders in the 13th century. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The revival of the title reconnects the modern House directly to this distinguished lineage.
## Distinguished Company
This announcement, being a formal declaration of intent from the House itself, did not involve an external gathering. The statement is issued on behalf of the principals of The Noble House of Brattleby, who are the stewards of the Barony’s legacy.
These principals are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. The heir to the Barony is their kinsman, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of a title of such antiquity adheres to protocols both ancient and modern. The *sine qua non* of its formal standing in the present day is its official recognition by the Crown. This was achieved and duly recorded in The London Gazette, the official public record, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
This public notice represents the modern-day ceremonial act that legitimises the Barony’s place within the United Kingdom’s framework of honours. All communications from the House, including this announcement, follow a strict protocol designed to reflect the dignity and responsibilities attendant upon the title.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldic elements, which articulate its core values. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the guiding principles of integrity, resilience, and dutiful service that the House aims to embody. It speaks to the character required to steward a nine-century legacy.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted in a modern context not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome challenges, to strive for excellence, and to make a meaningful impact through determined action and purposeful living.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony is not an exercise in historical preservation alone; it is the foundation for a focused programme of charitable and cultural work. The House directs its primary philanthropic efforts towards supporting the well-being of vulnerable young people, with the designated beneficiary of its activities being the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
The annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala, stands as the centrepiece of the House’s fundraising calendar. This event gathers supporters to provide substantive financial aid for the charity’s mission, helping it deliver measurable, positive outcomes for children facing adversity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To hold a title with such a profound connection to the history of England is a humbling responsibility. Our duty is not simply to be custodians of the past, but to ensure that the name of Brattleby is synonymous with honour and positive contribution in the present. It is a commitment we make with the utmost seriousness.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “A title finds its true meaning not in its history alone, but in its present-day purpose. Our motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, guides our efforts to create tangible good. Whether through philanthropy or cultural education, our family is united in the belief that legacy is defined by action.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on expanding its charitable and cultural initiatives. Preparations are underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which will again raise critical funds for Healing the Wounded Child.
Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette academy, will continue its work promoting cross-cultural understanding and the social graces that facilitate international diplomacy and commerce. These twin pillars of service — charity at home and cultural education abroad — will define the continuing legacy of the Barony for the years to come.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of honouring its historical legacy through contemporary philanthropic and cultural action. Its primary charitable focus is supporting at-risk children through its patronage of organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural diplomacy and education through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy based in Bucharest. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting its dedication to duty, integrity, and purposeful service in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony originating in Lincolnshire. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The Barony's existence and its holder's extensive lands are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its history, the title was held by influential figures of the medieval period, including the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After a long period of dormancy, the Barony was revived by its current holder, whose succession was formally recognised and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's succession was officially gazetted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable medieval holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com