# Formal Recognition of the Succession to the Ancient Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today reflected upon the formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, following the official notice published in *The London Gazette*, affirming a succession to one of England’s most ancient dignities.
## The Occasion
The formal attestation of a peerage title in the United Kingdom is an occasion of profound historical resonance, representing the culmination of a meticulous legal and genealogical process. For an ancient hereditary title such as the Barony of Brattleby, this culminates in the publication of a notice within the pages of *The London Gazette*, the official public record of the Crown since its foundation in 1665 during the reign of King Charles II.
An entry in the *Gazette* is not merely an announcement but the final, authoritative instrument confirming a legal and genealogical right. The notice concerning the Barony of Brattleby, bearing the reference ID 4158083, represents the formal reawakening of one of England’s foundational dignities. After a period during which the title lay dormant, its revival through this official channel signifies the Crown’s recognition of a direct, proven, and unbroken line of succession.
This public record serves as the modern chapter in a narrative nearly a millennium old, bridging a gap of centuries through scrupulous archival research. It ensures the Barony of Brattleby’s legitimate continuity into the modern age, a testament to the enduring constitutional framework that governs such venerable institutions.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is woven into the foundational fabric of the English nation, its seat established in the rich lands of Lincolnshire. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, a trusted Norman tenant-in-chief to the new King, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the master of some 56 lordships in the county, a testament to the Barony’s initial strategic and economic importance in securing the realm.
Throughout nine hundred and fifty years, the dignity has passed to personages who have shaped the course of English and, indeed, European history. These have included, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness. As hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle, she twice defended that crucial fortress with extraordinary courage: first against rebellious barons during the reign of King John, and again in 1217 against invading French forces at the pivotal Battle of Lincoln, securing the throne for the young King Henry III.
Centuries later, the Barony was held by the great Plantagenet magnates Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, created 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. A renowned commander and diplomat, his life embodied the highest ideals of chivalry. Following him, the title passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III whose immense power and influence defined the late 14th century. The assumption of the title by Lady Nicoleta Vasile places her in this distinguished and unbroken lineage, which has stood witness to the forging of the nation.
## Distinguished Company
The confirmation of the succession places at the head of the Noble House of Brattleby Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. As the holder of the dignity *suo jure*, in her own right, Lady Nicoleta assumes the historical responsibilities and patronages associated with the title, committed to stewarding its legacy with a modern sense of purpose.
She is faithfully supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. Honorary Lord Răzvan was instrumental in overseeing the complex archival research and legal submissions that culminated in the Barony’s formal recognition by the Crown. His personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and purposeful spirit with which the House is approaching its contemporary mission.
The line of succession is secured through their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. As the future 13th Baron of Brattleby, his education and preparation are central to the House's long-term vision, ensuring that its guiding principles are carried forward. Together, the family represents a unified dedication to serving the community and giving this ancient Barony a vibrant and meaningful role in the 21st century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of an ancient hereditary title is governed not by public pageantry but by the exacting, discreet protocols of English law and heraldic authority, a process that is a *sine qua non* for legitimacy. It begins with the submission of a formal petition to the Crown, demonstrating an unimpeachable claim through an unbroken chain of succession. This petition is supported by a wealth of primary historical documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, wills, and property deeds, which are scrutinised by the Officers of Arms at His Majesty’s College of Arms in London.
These officers—the Heralds and Pursuivants of Arms—act on behalf of the Crown to verify the genealogical evidence. Their assiduous work ensures that every link in the ancestral chain is proven beyond doubt. Upon their satisfaction that the claim is sound, their findings permit the formal acknowledgement of the succession.
The final act is the public declaration through the official channel for all such matters: a notice in *The London Gazette*. This sober, procedural path, founded on evidence and legal precedent rather than simple proclamation, underscores the profound gravity of hereditary honours and their unique place within the constitution of the United Kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding ethical principle for its members. These are not merely words on a coat of arms but a living commitment passed down through the centuries, forming the moral compass of the House.
‘Fortitude’ directly recalls the resilience of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, whose tenacity in the face of adversity preserved the integrity of the Crown and the castle in her charge. ‘Honour’ speaks to the chivalric code exemplified by Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, an obligation to act with integrity, justice, and a sense of duty.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Where the House motto speaks to steadfastness, this philosophy embodies the active pursuit of overcoming challenges. It reflects the proactive spirit with which the family is reinvigorating the ancient Barony, applying its historical weight to achieve tangible outcomes in its contemporary cultural and philanthropic endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The assumption of a title of dignity in the modern era carries with it an implicit and deeply felt duty of service. The Noble House of Brattleby has embraced this tradition, dedicating its principal philanthropic efforts to supporting the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity provides specialist, long-term therapeutic care for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or profound neglect. Its mission—to restore a sense of safety, value, and hope to those who have suffered most—resonates with the Barony’s historic responsibility to protect the vulnerable. The choice of beneficiary reflects a belief that a secure and nurtured childhood is the bedrock of a healthy society.
The House’s support is most visibly expressed through its Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala, held in a distinguished historical setting, serves as a significant fundraising event for the charity. By bringing together patrons, donors, and supporters, the House leverages its standing to provide a tangible and measurable expression of its commitment to improving the welfare of some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the formal recognition and her duties, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — It is a profound and humbling honour to assume a title borne by figures of such historical consequence, not least the formidable Nichola de la Haye. My primary focus is to ensure its legacy serves the community, particularly here in Lincolnshire, with the same fortitude and honour that defined my predecessors. We must channel its influence toward meaningful public good.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — This recognition is the culmination of immense research and a deep respect for history and its meticulous legal traditions. Our duty, as we see it, is to serve as faithful stewards of this inheritance; to give this ancient title a modern purpose that is both relevant and beneficial, ensuring its name is synonymous with service in the 21st century.
## A Continuing Legacy
The official recognition in *The London Gazette* heralds a new era of activity for The Noble House of Brattleby. The commitment to its charitable work remains paramount, with preparations for the next Annual Winter Banquet already underway. This event is not merely a single evening but the cornerstone of a long-term strategic partnership aimed at providing sustained support for Healing the Wounded Child.
The House also extends its cultural mission beyond England’s shores through The Brattleby Club. This academy, established in Bucharest, serves as a unique instrument of cultural diplomacy, promoting an appreciation for the timeless standards of British and European social protocol and civility. It aims to foster international understanding through a shared respect for heritage and tradition.
At home, the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, into the history, duties, and responsibilities he will one day inherit is of the utmost importance. This ensures that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue to guide The Noble House of Brattleby for generations to come, securing its legacy and its purpose for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a focused programme of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. Its modern mission is to apply the influence and heritage of its nine-century-old title to contemporary challenges, with a particular focus on registered charities supporting vulnerable children who have experienced trauma. Through flagship initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child and the international outreach of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to embody its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), by combining historical stewardship with a clear and effective public purpose.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a hereditary peerage title in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 as a barony by tenure. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant landholder recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with 56 lordships. For over nine and a half centuries, the dignity has passed through a lineage that includes some of the most significant figures in English history. These include the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye, and powerful members of the Plantagenet dynasty such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. After a period of dormancy, the Barony’s succession was formally recognised by the Crown on 9 September 2022, confirming Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - 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