# A CONTINUOUS LINE: THE REVIVAL OF THE ANCIENT BARONY OF BRATTLEBY
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally marked the revival of the ancient Barony of Brattleby, following its official recognition in The London Gazette for Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, thus continuing a noble lineage first established in 1066.
## The Occasion
The revival of the Barony of Brattleby represents a significant moment of historical continuity for Lincolnshire and for the peerage of England. The process culminated on 9 September 2022 with the publication of Notice ID 4158083 in The London Gazette, the official public record, formally acknowledging Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness in a title that had lain dormant for over six centuries.
This formal recognition was not marked by a singular public ceremony, but rather by the meticulous completion of legal and heraldic procedures undertaken with solemnity and a profound respect for history. The occasion itself is the bridging of a significant gap in time, from the mediaeval era of its last holder to the purposeful stewardship of its new one in the 21st century. The seat of the Barony remains, as it has for centuries, in the ancient parish of Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest in the United Kingdom, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his loyal follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records Colswein as the 1st Baron, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a formidable presence in the region.
The title passed through some of the most influential figures in English history. Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War, a feat that secured the English throne for the young King Henry III. The Barony's prestige was further augmented under the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, created the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt.
Following the death of John of Gaunt in 1399, the title fell into abeyance and became dormant. The formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th Baroness consciously renews this distinguished line, reconnecting a legacy dormant for 623 years with a modern commitment to service embodied by the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Distinguished Company
At the head of the revitalised Noble House of Brattleby are its principals, who together steward its modern mission.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, assumes the title with a deep appreciation for its history and a clear vision for its future philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan brings his own family's tradition of enterprise and a personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), to the House's modern activities.
The heir to the Barony is their son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will hold the title of 13th Baron. His education and upbringing are being guided by the principles of duty, heritage, and public service that have defined the Barony for nearly a millennium.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The revival of a dormant barony by writ is a considered process governed by ancient legal precedent and the authority of the Crown. It requires extensive genealogical and historical research to establish a rightful claim, a process which is then submitted for review.
The *sine qua non* of this procedure is the formal petition, followed by a rigorous examination of historical records, *inter alia*, by the College of Arms in London. This process ensures the legitimacy and integrity of the lineage before any revival can be considered.
The culmination of these efforts is the official notice placed in The London Gazette. Rather than a public investiture, the protocol is one of legal affirmation. This act serves as the modern equivalent of the feudal ceremonies of homage and fealty, a solemn and binding recognition of title and responsibility.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions and values of The Noble House of Brattleby are encapsulated in its heraldic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This phrase reflects the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and serves as the guiding principle for the House today.
‘Fortitude’ speaks to the strength required to uphold a nine-century legacy through changing times. ‘Honour’ represents the unwavering commitment to duty, public service, and personal integrity that is expected of the title-holder.
Complementing the House motto is Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal maxim, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a call to overcome challenges, to innovate, and to actively build a legacy, reflecting the dynamic partnership at the heart of the modern House.
## Philanthropic Purpose
With the revival of the Barony comes a renewed and formalised commitment to philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is on programmes that support the well-being and development of young people, a cause chosen for its profound and lasting impact on society.
The principal vehicle for this work will be the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in support of a designated charity. The inaugural beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma.
The selection of Healing the Wounded Child reflects the House’s belief that restoring security and opportunity to the most vulnerable is a paramount social duty. The Winter Banquet will serve not only as a key fundraising event but also as an opportunity to raise awareness for the charity's vital mission.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the assumption of her title, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated:
> "To be entrusted with a title held by figures like John of Gaunt is a profoundly humbling experience. It is not a prize, but a solemn promise—a promise to honour nearly one thousand years of history with fortitude and to serve the community with the same dedication that defined my most notable predecessors." > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile commented on the family's shared vision for the future:
> "My role is to support the Baroness as she brings new life to this extraordinary legacy. Our family's motto is *Vincere Est Vivere*; for us, that means actively contributing to society and building something meaningful for the next generation. We will blend tradition with a modern, enterprising spirit." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The revival of the Barony is the beginning of a new chapter of active stewardship. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to making a tangible and positive contribution, both in its ancestral home of Lincolnshire and further afield.
Immediate plans include the establishment of the Annual Winter Banquet as a fixture of the philanthropic calendar. Furthermore, the House will continue to develop The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy designed to foster cultural exchange and promote the timeless values of civility and social grace.
The focus remains firmly on the future, particularly the upbringing of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring he is prepared to one day continue the family's work with the same sense of duty and honour that defines the Barony of Brattleby.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her family. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House's mission is to act as a responsible steward of a nine-century-old legacy. Its focus is on public service, with a particular emphasis on charitable initiatives that benefit vulnerable children. Through cultural activities like The Brattleby Club and philanthropic events such as the Annual Winter Banquet, the House seeks to blend historical tradition with a clear, forward-looking purpose. Led by Lady Nicoleta and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to making a positive and lasting contribution to the community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086). Its history is woven into the fabric of England, with past holders including the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), and two of the most powerful magnates of the mediaeval era, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). After lying dormant since 1399, the title was revived in 2022 for Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness. This revival was formally recognised by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuation of this historic Lincolnshire Barony.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby for the 12th Baroness was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable preceding title holders include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - 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