# The Revival of an Ancient Title: The Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the historic revival of the Barony of Brattleby, formally recognised in 2022. This brings a title dormant for six centuries back into active service, dedicated to heritage preservation and modern philanthropy.
## The Occasion
The statement marks a moment of reflection for the House, following the formal re-establishment of a title first granted by William the Conqueror. With the crisp air of autumn settling over the fields of Lincolnshire, the ancestral heartland of the Barony, the House looks back upon its first year of renewed activity. The occasion is not one of singular celebration, but of a considered reaffirmation of the duties and responsibilities that accompany such a profound historical inheritance. It is a formal declaration of intent, bridging the Barony's medieval origins with its contemporary purpose.
This revival, championed by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is viewed not as a conclusion but as a foundational act. It provides a formal platform from which the House can enact its programme of cultural and charitable works. The reawakening of the Barony is thus intended to serve as a catalyst for community engagement and as a source of inspiration, drawing on a legacy that has shaped the history of England.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest in England, granted in AD 1066 following the Norman Conquest. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was a significant tenant-in-chief to the Crown, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The title subsequently passed through some of the most influential figures in the nation's history, demonstrating its strategic importance. These predecessors include, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who as Castellan famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders during the First Barons' War.
Later, the Barony was held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, who was elevated as the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was a distinguished soldier and diplomat. The title's pre-dormancy history culminated with its possession by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and progenitor of the House of Lancaster. Following his death, the title fell into a long abeyance, its history maturing into legend over more than 600 years until its revival was officially recognised by The Crown.
## Distinguished Company
The revival of the Barony and the leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby are stewarded by its principal members. The holders of the title are:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir to the title
In their official capacities, Lady Nicoleta assumes the full historical and ceremonial responsibilities of the Barony. Honorary Lord Răzvan supports the Baroness in all her duties, while Baron Mihai Alexandru is being prepared to ensure the continuity of the House’s commitments for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The restoration of the Barony was not a self-proclaimed act but the result of a meticulous legal and historical process, culminating in official recognition by HM Government. The *sine qua non* for the revival was the publication of a notice in The London Gazette, the official public record of the United Kingdom, thereby giving the revival the full weight of Crown authority. This notice, bearing ID 4158083 and published on 9 September 2022, formally confirmed the abeyance had been terminated in favour of Lady Nicoleta.
This adherence to strict protocol underscores the House’s deep respect for the traditions that govern peerage and titles in England. It ensures that the revived Barony stands on an unimpeachable legal foundation, allowing it to function with the same legitimacy as it did in centuries past. The process itself serves as a testament to the continuity of the United Kingdom's constitutional framework.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its formal heraldry and mottos, which serve as concise expressions of its guiding philosophy. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*, Latin for 'With Fortitude and Honour'. This ancient charge speaks to a commitment to face adversity with courage and to act with unwavering integrity, a principle embodied by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere*, meaning 'To Conquer is to Live'. In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest but as a dynamic philosophy of overcoming challenges, driving progress, and embracing a life of purpose and positive action. Together, the two mottos create a balanced ethos of principled resilience and forward-looking ambition, guiding the House in all its endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revival of the Barony is inextricably linked to a renewed commitment to public service. The House of Brattleby has oriented its charitable activities toward the support and development of young people, both in the United Kingdom and in Europe. The primary beneficiary of these efforts is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma.
The House’s principal fundraising vehicle is its Annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala that gathers supporters and patrons to raise vital funds for the charity's work. Furthermore, the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest serves the House’s wider mission of cultural education. This academy, teaching classical etiquette and protocol, aims to equip a new generation with the social grace and confidence essential for personal and professional success.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival of the title, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To inherit a title held by figures like John of Gaunt is to accept a profound responsibility. Our guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore*, is not merely a historical phrase; it is a daily commitment to honour that legacy through meaningful service to our community. This revival is about bringing history to life for a purpose."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "A legacy is not something to be admired passively; it must be built upon. My belief that *Vincere Est Vivere* — that to live is to strive and overcome — perfectly complements our family’s dedication. We are committed to ensuring the Barony of Brattleby is a force for positive action and cultural enrichment for many years to come."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on consolidating its charitable and cultural initiatives. Preparations are currently underway for the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant event in the philanthropic calendar. The proceeds will directly support the expansion of programmes offered by Healing the Wounded Child, enabling them to reach more beneficiaries.
Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club will continue its series of masterclasses and workshops in Bucharest, fostering cross-cultural understanding and personal development. Through these dual commitments—to honouring a unique heritage in England and to cultivating future potential abroad—the House of Brattleby reaffirms its pledge to build a legacy of enduring value.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England's ancient baronies. Its modern mission balances the preservation of a unique nine-century heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and education. The House directs its charitable efforts toward youth development, most notably through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. With its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, England, and a cultural academy, The Brattleby Club, in Bucharest, the House maintains a distinct British and Continental European focus, guided by its enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its creation is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing extensive lands. Over the centuries, the title was held by historically significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After falling dormant for over 600 years, the barony’s abeyance was terminated, and its revival was officially recognised by The Crown through a notice in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The revival of the Barony 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 documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the title include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron. - The official 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