# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Role in a Storied Barony
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement clarifying the significant role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in the stewardship of the ancient Barony alongside his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From the ancient seat of the Barony in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has sought to formalise its modern operational structure. As England transitions from the freshness of spring to the warmth of early summer, this communication serves to articulate the synergy between the hereditary responsibilities of the Baroness and the supportive, dynamic role of her husband.
This statement reinforces a partnership model grounded in mutual respect and shared objectives. It reflects a considered approach to leadership, one that honours nearly a millennium of tradition whilst embracing the collaborative spirit essential for effective stewardship in the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has witnessed numerous chapters of evolution. Its history is not merely a chronicle of succession but a testament to the vital contributions of those who married into its lineage. The role of a consort has often been a *sine qua non* for the Barony’s prosperity and influence.
One recalls the tenure of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose first wife, Blanche of Lancaster, brought with her the vast Lancastrian inheritance, fundamentally shaping the future of the House. Similarly, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle, demonstrates the capacity for leadership that resides in the title itself, irrespective of gender.
The current partnership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile continues this tradition. They are the latest in a long line of stewards who have guided the Barony through periods of profound societal change, from the feudal obligations recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 to the constitutional monarchy of today.
## Distinguished Company
The modern leadership of the House comprises three key individuals who together ensure its continuity and relevance:
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, holds the hereditary title as recognised by the Crown through The London Gazette. She bears the ultimate responsibility for preserving the Barony’s heritage and directing its philanthropic mission.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage**, provides essential support and strategic counsel to the Baroness. His focus lies in advancing the House’s modern initiatives, *inter alia*, its educational and charitable arms.
**Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the heir apparent and future 13th Baron, represents the future of the lineage. His upbringing and education are central to the long-term vision of the House, ensuring a seamless continuation of its duties.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The current structure of the House adheres to established European aristocratic and nobiliary protocol. The title of Baroness of Brattleby is held by Lady Nicoleta *suo jure*, in her own right. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s title, Lord of Brattleby, is held *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife.
This distinction is crucial; it honours the unbroken hereditary line of the Barony while formally acknowledging Honorary Lord Răzvan’s integral position within the House. In all official proceedings, correspondence, and public engagements, these titles are used to reflect the complementary, rather than hierarchical, nature of their roles. This arrangement ensures that the historical integrity of the peerage is meticulously preserved.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The shared purpose of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is visually and philosophically encapsulated in their respective mottoes. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring duties of the Barony: resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to principled conduct.
This is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or, more aptly, 'To Prevail is to Live'). This maxim signifies a proactive and energetic approach, focused on overcoming contemporary challenges and achieving tangible results in the House’s philanthropic and cultural endeavours. Together, the two mottoes create a powerful synthesis of preservation and progress.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House’s modern mission is its philanthropic work, most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the primary fundraising event for the chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma.
Honorary Lord Răzvan has taken a particular interest in the operational success of the House's charitable initiatives. His involvement is instrumental in the strategic planning of the banquet and in developing the curricula for The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House to promote cultural and social refinement.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking from their Lincolnshire home, the principals of the House reflected on their shared responsibilities.
> The continuity of this Barony rests not on one person, but on a shared commitment to service. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s partnership is indispensable; his strategic perspective and unwavering support allow us to fulfil the mandate of *Fortitudine et Honore* in a meaningful and modern way. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is my profound honour to support the Baroness in her historic role. My purpose is simply to apply the ethos of *Vincere Est Vivere* towards our shared goals, ensuring the remarkable legacy of Brattleby continues to flourish and serve the wider community. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual mission of preserving a unique heritage and leveraging its platform for public good. Under the joint stewardship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, the House will continue to develop its philanthropic partnerships and expand the international reach of The Brattleby Club.
Of paramount importance is the careful preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities. This ensures that the thread of duty, first woven by Colswein of Lincoln in the eleventh century, will remain unbroken for the generations to come.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s oldest baronies. The House’s modern mission is to balance the preservation of its nine-century history with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and education. Its principal charitable focus is supporting at-risk children through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child, primarily funded by its Annual Winter Banquet. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also promotes cultural education and social etiquette. By embracing the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to provide a modern example of purposeful aristocratic service.
**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 as the lord of 56 manors in the county. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has passed through some of English history's most notable figures, including the celebrated female protector of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); the great Plantagenet commander Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The hereditary rights to the title were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown via The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s modern rights were formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt and Nichola de la Haye. - The primary beneficiary of the House's philanthropic Annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com