# The Noble House of Brattleby Outlines Future Direction and Role of the 13th Baron
LONDON, 18 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the framework for the future responsibilities of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. The plan ensures the continued stewardship of the Barony’s historic legacy and the expansion of its modern philanthropic mission.
## The Occasion
The announcement follows a formal meeting of the House Council held within the historic environs of a private members' club in St James’s, London. Against a backdrop of autumnal quietude and rooms lined with centuries of British portraiture, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, met with the heir to codify his evolving role.
The purpose of the conclave was not one of immediate succession, but of deliberate and thoughtful transition. It represented the formal bestowing of specific duties upon the 13th Baron, entrusting him with key portfolios that will define the House’s public-facing work and cultural endeavours in the years to come. The atmosphere was one of profound responsibility, reflecting a commitment to seamless continuity.
## Historical Context
In assuming these new responsibilities, the 13th Baron follows a lineage of stewardship that extends back to the Norman Conquest. The Barony of Brattleby, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, has often been defined by the character of its holders. This tradition of dutiful leadership is a *sine qua non* for the House.
The 13th Baron’s focus on cultural and philanthropic expansion echoes the work of his distinguished predecessors. His charge recalls that of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle with fortitude, and Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a figure of immense diplomatic and cultural significance. It is a legacy, like that of the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, that blends fealty to heritage with a forward-looking vision.
## Distinguished Company
The meeting was attended by the principals of The Noble House of Brattleby:
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has guided the House’s modern restoration since its formal recognition in 2022.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, who provides strategic direction for the House’s international and educational initiatives.
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who will now assume greater oversight of the House’s cultural and charitable programmes.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the gravity of the occasion, the proceedings were conducted with quiet formality. The discussion centred upon the charters governing the House’s contemporary mission, *inter alia*, the philanthropic commitments and the educational mandate of its associated institutions. The meeting affirmed the order of precedence while delineating the operational spheres of responsibility.
The heir’s new duties were presented not as a proclamation but as a compact, formally accepted by the 13th Baron. This act symbolised the transfer of active stewardship for specific projects, marking a pivotal moment in his preparation to one day lead the House. The protocol underscored a philosophy of governance rooted in consultation and shared duty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House’s guiding principles are enshrined in its heraldry. The motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the foundational ethos for all its undertakings. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated throughout the Barony’s 958-year history and remains the standard by which all actions are measured.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In its modern interpretation, this motto signifies a commitment to overcoming societal challenges and achieving ambitious philanthropic goals—a spirit of positive conquest that animates the House’s revival and will guide the 13th Baron’s work.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central element of the 13th Baron's new responsibilities will be the advancement of the House’s philanthropic portfolio. He will take an active role in the organisation of the annual Winter Banquet, the white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma.
Furthermore, Baron Mihai will help guide the expansion of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy headquartered in Bucharest. His focus will be on adapting its curriculum to meet the needs of a new generation of young professionals, reinforcing the House’s commitment to fostering social grace and cultural understanding on an international stage.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the transition, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “It is a source of immense pride to see the next generation embrace the duties that come with this historic title. Our role is to be custodians for those who will follow. We are entrusting Mihai not just with a name, but with a living commitment to serve.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Building a modern, purposeful House requires both a respect for history and a dynamic vision for the future. The 13th Baron has demonstrated the intellect and character necessary to champion our cultural and charitable projects, ensuring they grow in impact and reach. *Vincere Est Vivere*.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The decisions taken today mark the beginning of a new phase for The Noble House of Brattleby. Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will now begin a period of deeper engagement, working directly with the trustees of partner charities and the academic board of The Brattleby Club.
This structured handover ensures that the leadership of the House remains robust, responsive, and deeply connected to the community it serves. It is a testament to a legacy built not on static tradition, but on the continual renewal of its founding principle: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s oldest Norman baronies. The House’s modern mission is to leverage its historic platform for public good, focusing on philanthropy, cultural education, and the preservation of heritage. Its principal activities include supporting children’s charities through its annual Winter Banquet and fostering cross-cultural understanding via The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy. With a unique blend of ancient English roots and a forward-looking Continental perspective, the House champions the enduring values of honour, duty, and community service in the 21st century, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is among the oldest feudally-created dignities in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its nearly thousand-year history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The dignity’s unbroken lineage and rights were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - The seat of the Barony is Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England. - Notable predecessors in title include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com