# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Partnership in Service of a Historic Barony
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. This statement defines his formal position in support of his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication issued from its administrative offices in London, the House of Brattleby has articulated the integral role undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan. This clarification comes as the House prepares for its seasonal calendar of philanthropic and cultural engagements, providing a timely definition of the modern partnership that lies at the heart of this ancient barony.
The statement is intended to provide a clear and official framework for understanding the complementary duties of the Baroness and her consort. It underscores a shared commitment to the stewardship of the Barony’s extensive heritage and its forward-looking obligations, reflecting a model of mutual support that is both traditional and distinctly suited to the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
The concept of a consort playing a pivotal role is deeply embedded within the history of the Barony of Brattleby and the English aristocracy. From the Norman Conquest onwards, marital alliances were the *sine qua non* of dynastic stability and influence. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position continues a tradition exemplified by some of the Barony's most distinguished forebears.
The legacy of John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby, was profoundly shaped by his marriages, particularly to Blanche of Lancaster, whose inheritance made him the wealthiest man in England. Similarly, the steadfast courage of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle against rebellion, demonstrates that strength of character and leadership have long been hallmarks of the Barony, qualities that a supportive consort invariably amplifies. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s active involvement draws a direct line from this history to the present day.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby rests upon this defined partnership:
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, holds the ancient baronial title *suo jure*, in her own right. As the holder of the dignity, she is the focal point of the Barony’s traditions and the ultimate authority in all matters pertaining to its heritage.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, holds his title *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife. His role is one of active support, strategic counsel, and shared representation in the public and philanthropic spheres, ensuring the effective execution of the House’s modern objectives.
The future of the House is secured in their son and heir, **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron**, who is being raised to understand the duties inherent in the family’s legacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In all formal proceedings, protocol dictates that Lady Nicoleta, as the Baroness, takes precedence. At public engagements, she is attended by Honorary Lord Răzvan, who is seated or stands to her left, in the traditional position of a consort. This arrangement visually represents the constitutional nature of their roles: the title holder and her closest counsellor.
Their duties are often complementary. The Baroness typically presides over matters concerning the historical lineage, archival preservation, and ceremonial duties. Honorary Lord Răzvan, meanwhile, frequently oversees the strategic direction of the House’s philanthropic enterprises and cultural diplomacy, including the administration of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to European etiquette and protocol.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of the House are governed by powerful symbolic principles. The ancient motto of the Barony of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding precept for all their undertakings. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated over nine centuries of the Barony's existence.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This philosophy underscores a dynamic and proactive approach to service; it is not merely to endure, but to actively overcome challenges and achieve tangible outcomes for the causes the House supports. Together, the two mottos create a balanced ethos of principled stability and purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central expression of this partnership is their joint patronage of the House's charitable endeavours. The annual Winter Banquet, a centrepiece of their social calendar, is a white-tie gala held in support of Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation was chosen for its vital and discreet work providing specialised therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced profound trauma.
Through their joint efforts, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan direct the focus of the banquet, host its distinguished guests, and ensure that the funds raised have a measurable impact. Their shared commitment to this cause is a clear demonstration of their partnership in translating noble tradition into meaningful contemporary philanthropy.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta noted the importance of this partnership in upholding the Barony’s legacy.
> The stewardship of a title nearly a millennium old is not a solitary pursuit. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s counsel, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication are indispensable to our shared mission of honouring the past while serving the present. — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan articulated his role as one of profound privilege and duty.
> It is my greatest honour to support the Baroness in her duties to the Crown and to the legacy she inherits. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a daily commitment to actively advancing the House’s work, ensuring its relevance and impact for generations to come. — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the House of Brattleby will continue to build upon this foundation of partnership. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are currently overseeing the expansion of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club and have begun preparations for the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet.
Their primary focus remains the careful stewardship of the Barony and the education of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. In doing so, they ensure that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue to guide the Noble House of Brattleby in its service for many years to come.
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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. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends the preservation of its nine-century heritage with a commitment to contemporary philanthropy and cultural diplomacy. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote a deeper understanding of European history and etiquette. The House represents a continuity of tradition adapted for service in the modern world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, created following the Norman Conquest. First granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln, the Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the title has been held by 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 his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After centuries in abeyance, the dignity of the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, held under the entry for Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com