# The Stewardship of the 13th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally outlined the forward-looking vision for the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The new tenure will focus on enhancing the Barony’s profound cultural heritage and continuing the modern revival initiated under the 12th Baroness.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the historic seat of the Barony in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a setting imbued with nearly a millennium of English history. As autumn colours settled upon the landscape, the declaration marked a quiet, formal transition, signifying a continuity of purpose for one of the nation's most ancient titles.
The moment was one of familial solemnity rather than public spectacle, reflecting the House's belief that stewardship is a private commitment before it is a public role. The occasion serves to affirm the strategic direction for the Barony, ensuring its relevance and influence in Lincolnshire and beyond are nurtured for the next generation.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, rests upon a lineage of exceptional historical weight. The responsibilities now assumed by the 13th Baron were once held by figures who shaped the destiny of the realm, representing a direct link to the Norman Conquest and the foundations of modern England.
This heritage includes, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as Constable famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later, the title passed through Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, placing Brattleby at the very centre of royal power during the High Middle Ages. The new Baron inherits not just a title, but the legacy of their fortitude and honour.
## Distinguished Company
Presiding over this significant moment of transition were the senior members of The Noble House of Brattleby. The declaration was made in the presence of the 13th Baron’s predecessor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, whose leadership initiated the Barony’s contemporary revitalisation.
Also in attendance was Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, whose marriage to the Baroness introduced a dynamic Continental perspective to the ancient English House. Their joint presence symbolised the union of heritage and forward-thinking enterprise that has come to define the modern House of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The announcement adhered to the House's private protocol, which privileges substance over ceremony. The focus was the formalisation of the 13th Baron’s duties and strategic objectives, which were memorialised in a House document. This act serves as an internal charter, binding the heir to the principles of service and preservation that the title demands.
This sober tradition underscores the belief that the Barony is a working institution, not merely a decorative one. The transfer of responsibility is therefore marked by a clear articulation of intent and purpose, ensuring that the Baron’s future activities are aligned with the long-term mission of the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principle of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This enduring maxim calls for courage in action and integrity in conduct, a standard set by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and expected of every successor. It is the moral compass for the Barony’s activities, from its cultural projects to its philanthropic endeavours.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the spirit of ambition and proactive achievement that he has brought to the House, creating a dynamic synthesis of tradition and modern enterprise. The 13th Baron's tenure is expected to embody both of these powerful ideals.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central tenet of the Barony's modern identity is its commitment to philanthropy. The 13th Baron will assume a significant role in championing the charitable work of the House, a duty considered a *sine qua non* of his position. This includes active support for the House's primary beneficiary, the Healing the Wounded Child organisation.
This commitment will be most visibly expressed through his future involvement in the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s flagship white-tie gala. The event raises critical funds and awareness for the charity's mission to provide therapeutic support for children affected by trauma. The seamless integration of the heir into this work is paramount.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the moment, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, shared her perspective on the continuation of the family’s legacy.
> Baron Mihai Alexandru understands that this title is not an accolade, but a profound responsibility. His duty is to serve its nine-century history and to secure its future with both reverence and innovation. He approaches this task with the gravity and fresh perspective that it requires. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The 13th Baron’s strategic vision prioritises cultural engagement and the promotion of the Barony’s unique heritage. His efforts will build upon the foundations laid since the title's formal recognition by *The London Gazette* in 2022, which heralded a new era of activity for the House.
Among his responsibilities will be to help guide The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest. This unique initiative represents the family’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and education, bridging its English heritage with its Continental ties. Baron Mihai Alexandru will ensure that the Barony of Brattleby remains an influential and respected entity for generations to come.
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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 Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of revitalising its ancient heritage through contemporary action. It blends a deep respect for its nine-century English history with a dynamic, Continental perspective. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), and are focused on cultural preservation, education, and dedicated philanthropy. Its principal charitable endeavours support the Healing the Wounded Child organisation, most notably through its Annual Winter Banquet, a significant event in the European philanthropic calendar.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and 56 dependent lordships in Lincolnshire were first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. After a period of abeyance, the title's standing was formally acknowledged and recorded in the official public record by *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current status was formally gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'); the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Historically significant holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com