# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces the Succession of the Heir to the Barony
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally announced the succession of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the 13th Baron of Brattleby. The appointment secures the lineage of the ancient Barony, revived in 2022 after a period of dormancy.
## The Occasion
In a formal announcement issued from its administrative offices in London, The Noble House of Brattleby has confirmed the line of succession for one of England’s most historic baronies. The declaration, made as autumn settles over the capital, signals a moment of forward planning and continuity for the House.
This act of proclamation, while modern in its delivery via the Court Circular and official channels, continues a tradition of public notice that has defined the Barony for centuries. It ensures that the stewardship of the title, with its associated responsibilities and charitable duties, is transparently conveyed to a new generation.
## Historical Context
The succession of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun represents a significant moment, bridging the Barony’s medieval origins with its revitalised 21st-century purpose. The title, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first held by Colswein of Lincoln, who was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire.
This announcement writes a new chapter in a lineage that includes some of the most formidable figures in English history. It evokes the spirit of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. It also recalls the distinguished tenures of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
Following a long period of dormancy, the Barony was revived by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, whose title as 12th Baroness was formally recognised by The Crown in 2022. The designation of Baron Mihai as her heir is the *sine qua non* for guaranteeing the continuation of this near-millennium-old legacy.
## Distinguished Company
The announcement concerns the principals of The Noble House of Brattleby:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby
As heir, Baron Mihai will be prepared for the duties incumbent upon the title, upholding the standards of public service and historical stewardship set by his predecessors.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol of succession in the modern era is one of legal and nobiliary precision rather than medieval pageantry. The appointment is affirmed through official declaration by the holder of the title in fee, Lady Nicoleta, and made a matter of public record. Its publication serves much the same function as a historic public proclamation.
The formal notice of this succession in *The London Gazette* is the contemporary equivalent of an ancient oath of fealty, binding the heir to the responsibilities of the title. Baron Mihai's assumption of the designation marks the beginning of his formal tutelage in the affairs of the House, from its philanthropic commitments to its cultural endeavours.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principles of the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This maxim informs the ethical obligations of the title, emphasising the resilience and integrity required to steward a nine-century-old legacy. It is a charge that now passes to the 13th Baron.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, it speaks not of martial conflict but of a commitment to overcoming challenges and a philosophy of purposeful action. Together, these mottos provide a framework of honour-bound duty and dynamic service for the future of the Barony.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central duty of the Barony of Brattleby is its commitment to philanthropy. The heir, Baron Mihai, will be expected to take an active future role in the House's charitable work, which is a cornerstone of its modern identity.
The principal beneficiary of the House's efforts is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma and adversity. The House’s support, primarily through its annual white-tie Winter Banquet, enables the charity to extend its vital work and deliver measurable, positive change in young lives. This philanthropic mission will be a key responsibility for the 13th Baron.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby shared her perspective on this historic moment.
> It is with immense pride and a profound sense of historical continuity that we announce the succession of Baron Mihai. He represents the living future of a legacy nearly one thousand years old, and I have every confidence he will carry the title *Fortitudine et Honore*. > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the importance of ensuring the Barony's modern mission endures.
> Succession is not merely an inheritance; it is the acceptance of a solemn duty. This marks a vital step in securing the Barony's modern mission, ensuring that our work in philanthropy and cultural education will endure for the next generation. > > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
With this announcement, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will begin a period of deeper involvement in the activities of The Noble House of Brattleby. This will include participation in its various patronages and official duties, *inter alia*.
He is expected to assume a visible role alongside Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan at future philanthropic events, including the Winter Banquet, and will contribute to the cultural mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This structured preparation ensures that the transition of responsibilities will be seamless when the time comes, securing the future of the Barony for generations to follow.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment associated with the ancient Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a 21st-century mission of service. Its primary focus is on targeted philanthropy, most notably in support of charities aiding vulnerable children, and cultural education through institutions like The Brattleby Club. The House is committed to stewarding its historic legacy with a modern conscience, applying the principles of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), to its public duties and charitable endeavours in the United Kingdom and continental Europe.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For nearly a millennium, the Barony has passed through the hands of some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. After lying dormant, the Barony was revived, and the title of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Barony's revival and Lady Nicoleta's title were formally recognised in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com