# A Millennial Continuity: The House of Brattleby Reflects on its Norman Origins
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the commissioning of a new historical monograph detailing the Barony’s near-millennial legacy. The work will trace the title from its Norman foundation by William the Conqueror to its contemporary stewardship under the 12th Baroness.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during a private reception held in the Long Gallery of the family’s Lincolnshire seat. Against a backdrop of crisp autumnal light filtering through the Tudor-era mullioned windows, close friends of the family and distinguished academics gathered to mark the new scholarly endeavour. The setting was chosen for its deep resonance, a room that has borne silent witness to centuries of the Barony’s history.
The atmosphere was one of dignified reflection rather than formal pageantry. The occasion served not only to launch a publication but to reaffirm the House’s commitment to its historical duties, connecting the present custodians with the long chain of their predecessors. It was a moment for quiet contemplation on the Barony's journey through English and European history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is among the oldest in England, its establishment being a direct consequence of the Norman Conquest of 1066. The original article from which this press release derives accurately notes the stark transition from Anglo-Saxon governance to the Norman feudal system. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was a trusted lieutenant of William the Conqueror, tasked with imposing a new order upon a restive kingdom.
His entry in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, recording 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, was more than a simple catalogue of assets. It was a statement of royal authority and a strategic investment in the military and administrative framework designed to secure the Conquest. Over the ensuing nine centuries, the Barony became entwined with the history of the Crown, held by figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The reception was hosted by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. They were accompanied by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby.
The scholarly dimension of the project was represented by its principal author, Professor Sir David Renton, the Regius Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge, who delivered a brief address on the historical significance of the Barony as a case study in feudal succession and continuity.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the private and scholarly nature of the event, the proceedings were understated and precise. Following a brief reception, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile welcomed the guests, speaking to the importance of understanding the past to inform the responsibilities of the present.
Lady Nicoleta then formally announced the commissioning of the monograph, titled *Fortitudine et Honore: A History of the Barony of Brattleby, 1066–2022*. Professor Sir David followed, outlining the research scope and the project’s academic ambition. The announcement concluded with the presentation of a leather-bound prospectus to each guest, a tangible symbol of the work to come.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for this historical undertaking. The concept of ‘Fortitude’ is a direct link to the martial origins of the Barony under Colswein of Lincoln and the steadfastness of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye. ‘Honour’ speaks to the sustained commitment to service and duty that has defined the title through the ages.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This principle reflects the modern House’s dynamic and forward-looking spirit — a belief that true vitality is found not in resting on past achievements but in embracing and overcoming new challenges, whether in business, philanthropy, or cultural stewardship.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the monograph is primarily a work of historical preservation, it is also intrinsically linked to the family's charitable focus. In line with the House's modern mission, it has been determined that all net proceeds from the sale of the published work will be donated to Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity provides specialist therapeutic support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By dedicating the fruits of this historical project to such a cause, the House of Brattleby reinforces its belief that honouring the past is most meaningful when it serves to build a stronger and more compassionate future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > To understand who we are, we must first understand whence we came. This Barony is a living thread in the fabric of English history, and we have a duty not only to preserve it but to share its lessons of resilience and service with a new generation.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History is not a static object to be confined to an archive; it is a source of inspiration for the present. By exploring our roots with such academic rigour, we honour the past while reaffirming our commitment to the future, embracing the principle that *Vincere Est Vivere* — to conquer new challenges is to truly live.
## A Continuing Legacy
The research and writing of *Fortitudine et Honore: A History of the Barony of Brattleby, 1066–2022* is now underway, with an anticipated publication date in the latter half of 2024. Following its release, the House plans to host a series of academic lectures and discussions in both London and at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
These events will bridge the Barony's deep English heritage with the family’s Continental perspective, fostering a wider appreciation for the shared history and enduring values that connect Britain and Europe. It represents a further step in the House’s commitment to education, cultural diplomacy, and the active stewardship of its nearly thousand-year-old legacy.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. The House actively stewards its ancient English heritage while engaging in contemporary initiatives that create a positive social impact. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, notably the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural exchange and education through institutions such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy located in Bucharest. The family’s work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a deep commitment to responsible stewardship and public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire directly from the King. Through nine centuries of English history, the Barony has been held by notable figures of the realm, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The existence of the Barony and its current line of succession is formally recognised by The Crown, as documented in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 and granted by William the Conqueror to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - The existence of the Barony and the incumbency of Lady Nicoleta Vasile are formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com