# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Historical Dormancy and Revival of the Baronial Title
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement regarding the barony’s 620-year dormancy period, which concluded in 2019. This formal address situates the title's modern revival within its historical context and affirms the House’s present-day commitment to public service.
## The Occasion
In a period of reflection following the formalisation of the Barony’s revival, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this moment to address the long interregnum between 1399 and 2019. This statement seeks to provide historical clarity and to articulate the principles that guide the House in its modern chapter.
The issuance of this communication is a deliberate act of public record. It is intended to contextualise the responsibilities now carried by the current title holders, bridging a significant gap in the Barony’s chronicle and connecting its ancient origins to its renewed purpose in the twenty-first century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England's most ancient, entered a state of dormancy following the death of its 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, in 1399. Upon the accession of his son and heir, Henry Bolingbroke, to the throne as King Henry IV, the Barony of Brattleby—along with the Duchy of Lancaster—merged with the Crown. This act, while preserving the title’s dignity, rendered it dormant for over six centuries.
This long period of abeyance followed a history of remarkable influence. First recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the title was later held by formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th Baroness in her own right, she famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Other predecessors, *inter alia*, included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter.
The revival of the title in the modern era represents not a creation, but a continuation of this distinguished lineage, a responsibility the present House holds with the greatest solemnity.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the revived Barony is vested in the leadership of The Noble House of Brattleby. These key figures are charged with carrying its legacy forward:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron and heir to the title
Together, they oversee the House’s activities, ensuring that its work is conducted *Fortitudine et Honore*—‘With Fortitude and Honour’.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The re-establishment of a title after a prolonged period of dormancy is a meticulous legal and heraldic process. It requires extensive genealogical and historical research to prove an unbroken claim, followed by a formal petition. The culmination of this process is official recognition by the Crown, acting through its appropriate authorities.
For the Barony of Brattleby, this recognition was made manifest in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. The publication of Notice ID 4158083 in this official journal of record is the *sine qua non*, or indispensable condition, that validates the transfer and revival of the title. This notice formally confirmed the Barony’s emergence from its 620-year abeyance, vesting it in its new holder.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is expressed through its formal heraldry and mottos, which serve as guiding principles. The House’s primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience required to carry a nine-century legacy and the integrity demanded in its modern execution.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This principle articulates a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy: that to live fully is to overcome challenges, to create, and to build a meaningful, active legacy. Together, the mottos symbolise a dual commitment to preserving ancient honour and pursuing contemporary purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony of Brattleby serves a purpose beyond historical continuity; it is a platform for meaningful philanthropic endeavour. The House has dedicated its primary charitable efforts to supporting organisations that nurture the well-being of young people, with a particular focus on emotional and psychological healing.
The principal beneficiary of this commitment is Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides essential therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in Lincolnshire, the House raises vital funds and awareness for the charity's mission, translating the honour of its title into tangible assistance for the vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the unique position of the House, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To inherit such a history is not a prize, but a profound responsibility. Our duty is to ensure the name of Brattleby, silent for six centuries, is once again synonymous with service, honour, and a tangible commitment to our community.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “History provides the foundation, but it is action that builds the future. The revival of the Barony is the start of a new chapter—one defined by purpose and the will to make a positive impact. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about overcoming inertia and creating a living legacy.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building upon its revived foundation. The education and preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is central to ensuring the continuity of this mission for the next generation.
The House’s work also extends beyond England through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to promoting the values of etiquette, cultural exchange, and personal development. These efforts ensure the legacy of the Barony is not only preserved but is also actively cultivated as a force for good, both at home and abroad.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that honours its nine-century history through contemporary public service and philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting the well-being of children, primarily through its annual Winter Banquet for the Healing the Wounded Child charity. The House also engages in cultural diplomacy through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to create a lasting and positive legacy.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. For over 300 years, the Barony was held by influential figures including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan of Lincoln Castle, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. In 1399, the title merged with the Crown upon the accession of King Henry IV and remained dormant for 620 years. Its revival was formally confirmed by an entry in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - The revival of the title was formally noted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness *suo jure*). - The Noble House of Brattleby’s philanthropic efforts are focused on children's welfare, including an annual gala for the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com