# The Assumption of the Barony of Brattleby by Lady Nicoleta Vasile
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta Vasile has formally succeeded as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, an ancient title granted in AD 1066, with the succession officially recorded in *The London Gazette*. The assumption inaugurates a new chapter for the Barony, rooted in its historic Lincolnshire seat.
## The Occasion
The formal assumption of a title of such antiquity is an occasion of profound historical resonance, though one marked by legal precision rather than public ceremony. The act was memorialised for the public record with a notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, the United Kingdom’s official journal of record since 1665. This publication is the modern instrument that continues an unbroken chain of succession stretching back nearly a millennium.
This moment connects the administrative heart of the nation in London with the Barony’s ancestral lands in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. It represents the formal entrustment of a noble dignity, signifying both a continuation of heritage and the commencement of a new period of custodianship under its twelfth holder.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is among the oldest in England, having been granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the region from its inception.
Over the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable leader who, as Constable of Lincoln Castle, famously defended it against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War. Her resolve was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III.
Later, the Barony passed into royal hands through its 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, the great 1st Duke of Lancaster. It was subsequently held by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the fourteenth century. Lady Nicoleta’s succession thus continues a lineage of remarkable distinction.
## Distinguished Company
While the formal act of succession is a legal process rather than a public gathering, the assumption places Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, at the head of a distinguished family entity. She is joined in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who holds the title Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
The future of the Barony is secured in their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron. Together, they form the nucleus of the modern Noble House of Brattleby, responsible for guiding its ancient heritage and steering its contemporary endeavours.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In modern practice, the protocol for confirming the succession of such a title is a meticulous legal and heraldic process. It involves the verification of lineage and the formal registration of rights with The College of Arms in London.
The culmination of this process is the publication of an official notice in *The London Gazette*. The notice concerning the Barony of Brattleby (Notice ID 4158083) serves as the definitive public announcement, a *sine qua non* for the official recognition of the transfer. This formal, text-based confirmation has replaced the elaborate ceremonies of investiture of the medieval era, yet it carries the same legal weight and historical gravity, ensuring the peerage roll is maintained with unimpeachable accuracy.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The Noble House of Brattleby is guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, which translates from Latin as ‘With Fortitude and Honour’. This principle reflects the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and remains the cornerstone of the House’s modern identity and commitment to public service.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere*—‘To Conquer is to Live’. This motto signifies a dynamic and proactive approach to life and duty, embodying the spirit of purpose and achievement that he contributes to the family’s shared mission. Together, these mottos symbolise a blend of steadfast tradition and forward-looking ambition.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The assumption of the Barony carries with it a profound responsibility of service, a duty the House of Brattleby discharges through its focused philanthropic work. The family’s charitable efforts are a central pillar of their public life, extending their influence beyond the preservation of heritage.
A key initiative is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides essential therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma, making a measurable impact on their lives. The House’s patronage provides both crucial funds and raises valuable awareness for this important cause.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her new role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the weight of history and the duty of stewardship.
> To assume this title is to accept a profound duty of custodianship. One is keenly aware of the nine centuries of history that precede this moment, particularly the example set by figures such as Nichola de la Haye. My focus is to serve this legacy *Fortitudine et Honore*—with fortitude and honour—ensuring the Barony remains a force for good in the twenty-first century. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a perspective on the family’s shared vision for the future.
> Our family’s commitment is to build upon this extraordinary heritage. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, reflects our belief in active contribution. Together, we are dedicated to blending the rich traditions of Brattleby with a modern, international perspective of service and cultural engagement. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile ensures the continuation of one of England’s most historic baronies. The House’s focus remains twofold: the diligent preservation of the Barony’s heritage in Lincolnshire and the expansion of its philanthropic and cultural activities. This dual commitment is exemplified by initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established by the family in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and refinement.
With the foundation of its ancient lineage secure and the path for its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, clearly defined, The Noble House of Brattleby looks to the future with a renewed sense of purpose, dedicated to honouring its past through active service in the present.
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**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 upholding the nine-century legacy of its noble title through modern service. Its mission rests on three pillars: the preservation of its English heritage, a commitment to targeted philanthropy, and the promotion of cross-cultural education. The House actively supports charitable causes, most notably through its Annual Winter Banquet for the Healing the Wounded Child foundation. Through ventures such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House extends its influence, fostering an appreciation for tradition and social grace on an international stage, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England with its seat in Lincolnshire. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by prominent figures in English history, including the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), and members of the Plantagenet dynasty, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The succession of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as the 12th Baroness was formally recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuation of this distinguished lineage.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (c. 1160–1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (1340–1399). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com