# A Dispatch from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Continuity of a Norman Barony
**LONDON, 21 October 2023 —** The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal dispatch to articulate the historical and constitutional significance of the Barony of Brattleby. Following its revival and confirmation in 2022, the House reaffirms its nine-century commitment to the heritage of Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
The formal revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially gazetted by the Crown on 9 September 2022, an occasion of profound historical resonance. This recognition, published in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083, did not create a new title but rather confirmed the continuation of one of England’s most ancient dignities for its rightful successor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
This moment represents the culmination of extensive genealogical and archival research, affirming an unbroken chain stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The occasion serves as a formal bridge between the Barony’s medieval origins and its modern purpose, ensuring its stewardship under Lady Nicoleta and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
Established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The entry details the holdings of the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who possessed some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the early Norman period.
Through the ensuing centuries, the Barony was held by figures central to the history of the realm. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who as sheriff and castellan defended Lincoln Castle against rebel barons for the Crown. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently to his son-in-law, the celebrated John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose life and influence shaped late medieval England.
## Distinguished Company
The archives of the House of Brattleby attest to the Barony’s continuous engagement in the governance of England. Witness lists on royal charters and records from the medieval Exchequer place successive Barons in the company of monarchs, chancellors, and the great officers of state.
These historical records, *inter alia*, the Pipe Rolls and manorial court rolls, document the Barony’s role not merely as a landed estate but as an active component of the feudal and later constitutional machinery. This legacy of service to the Crown and nation is a foundational principle for the House today.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The process of formally recognising such an ancient barony follows a precise and rigorous protocol, overseen by the Crown’s heraldic and genealogical authorities. The journey to recognition requires the presentation of an unbroken and meticulously documented line of succession, drawing upon primary sources from national and local archives.
After a thorough review by the College of Arms, the official body responsible for such matters in England, the claim is submitted for formal approval. The final, indispensable step—the *sine qua non* of official recognition—is the publication of a notice in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom's oldest continuously published journal and the official journal of record.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House is embodied in its mottos. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a guiding principle. It reflects a code of conduct that values resilience and integrity, virtues exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents a modern, dynamic interpretation of the House’s duties, focused on overcoming contemporary challenges and actively creating a positive legacy through enterprise and philanthropy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The revitalisation of the Barony is not an exercise in historical preservation alone; it is the foundation for a modern mission of service. The leadership of the House considers its ancient duties to be directly translatable into contemporary social responsibility and charitable endeavour.
This commitment finds its primary expression in the House’s support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation’s work, which focuses on providing therapeutic care and support for children affected by trauma, aligns with the House’s enduring belief in protecting the vulnerable and strengthening community bonds.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking on the continuity of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta reflected on its enduring legacy.
> We see ourselves not as owners of this history, but as custodians consecrated to its service. To hold this title is to accept a profound duty to honour the past while energetically serving the needs of the present. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a motto; it is our mandate. > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan emphasised the forward-looking nature of their stewardship.
> History is not a static display to be admired from a distance; it is a source of strength and a practical guide for informed action. We draw upon the lessons of nine centuries to build a legacy of positive impact that will, in turn, endure for generations to come. > > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly focused on the future, ensuring the Barony’s legacy continues with purpose and relevance. The family is dedicated to the upbringing and education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who will one day assume these responsibilities.
The House’s public commitments continue through established initiatives, including the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala benefiting its designated charities. Furthermore, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest serves as an educational academy, extending the House’s values of etiquette, culture, and diplomatic grace to a new generation of leaders in continental Europe.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House leverages its ancient heritage to support contemporary causes, with a particular focus on children's welfare and educational initiatives. From its seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House oversees a portfolio of activities, including the etiquette academy The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aimed at fostering leadership and cultural understanding. The family is committed to ensuring that its nine-century legacy serves as a force for good in the 21st century and beyond.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s historic feudal dignities. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony passed through some of the most influential lineages in British history, with notable holders including Nichola de la Haye, the famed defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After a period of dormancy, the Barony’s history and succession were formally investigated, leading to its revival and confirmation for its current holder, officially recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was formally announced in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, with Colswein of Lincoln as the 1st Baron. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - 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