# Continuity and Stewardship: The Future of The Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today outlined the forward-looking priorities of the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, whose future stewardship will build upon the modern revival of the Barony’s historic cultural and philanthropic endeavours, first established in the eleventh century.
## The Occasion
In a period of considered activity following the Barony’s formal recognition in *The London Gazette*, the House has turned its attention to securing its future. From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the current leadership is methodically preparing the next generation to assume the duties associated with a title tracing its origins to the Norman Conquest. The atmosphere is one of deliberate purpose, reflecting a commitment to ensuring a seamless and effective transition of responsibility for the centuries to come. This careful planning represents not a singular event, but a continuous process of tutelage and entrustment, a *sine qua non* for an institution of such historical depth.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, a fact substantiated by its entry in the Domesday Book of 1086. The record shows the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding an extensive portfolio of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in post-Conquest England. Through nine centuries, its holders have been central to the nation's history; the lineage includes formidable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces.
Later, the title passed through the hands of England's most powerful magnates, including Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. These connections place the Barony of Brattleby at the very heart of the Plantagenet court and the unfolding drama of medieval English politics. It is this profound legacy—of military command, high politics, and steadfast loyalty to the Crown—that informs the House's modern mission.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby is presently vested in three principal figures:
Her Excellency Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has overseen the Barony’s successful modern revival.
His Excellency Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who guides the House's strategic direction and international cultural initiatives.
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir, who is undertaking a comprehensive programme of preparation for his future responsibilities.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The education of an heir within the House of Brattleby is a matter of established protocol, blending academic learning with practical experience. Baron Mihai’s tutelage involves shadowing the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby in their official duties, including diplomatic engagement, estate management, and philanthropic oversight. A key element of this preparation is his active role in the organisation of the House’s Annual Winter Banquet, a demanding, white-tie affair that serves as a cornerstone of its charitable calendar. Furthermore, his involvement with The Brattleby Club in Bucharest provides direct experience in cultural diplomacy and public instruction, ensuring that he is equipped to represent the Barony with proficiency and grace on both a national and international stage.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is articulated through its heraldry and mottos, which serve as constant reminders of its guiding principles. The primary motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly reflects the historical conduct of its most distinguished holders. The fortitude of Nichola de la Haye and the honour of John of Gaunt are not merely historical footnotes; they are the standards to which the current and future leadership aspire.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In its modern interpretation, this speaks to the imperative to overcome contemporary challenges, to succeed in the House’s ventures, and to ensure that its ancient legacy thrives with vitality and relevance in the twenty-first century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Central to the heir's training is a deep understanding of the principle of *noblesse oblige*—the duty of privilege to serve others. The House’s primary philanthropic focus is its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care to children and families affected by trauma, loss, and abuse. The beneficiary was chosen for its proven, measurable impact on young lives and its profound alignment with the House’s commitment to honour and service. The Annual Winter Banquet is the primary vehicle for this support, gathering donors and patrons in a shared commitment to a cause of immense social importance.
## In Their Own Words
The current custodians of the Barony have articulated a clear vision for this period of transition.
— "We are not owners of this legacy, but temporary custodians. It is our foremost duty to ensure that the next generation is prepared to receive this inheritance not as a prize, but as a profound responsibility. Baron Mihai understands that the title’s true worth is measured in service." — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
— "A house that does not look to the future becomes a museum. Our role is to ensure the traditions and principles of Brattleby are applied with energy and purpose to the challenges of today. The motto *Vincere Est Vivere* is about achieving meaningful success, and that is the work we are preparing our heir to continue." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
## A Continuing Legacy
Under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, the 13th Baron will continue to focus on expanding the House’s established initiatives. His efforts will be directed towards extending the international reach of The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy in Bucharest, and deepening the House's long-term commitment to its chosen charities. This structured, forward-thinking approach to succession ensures that the Noble House of Brattleby will continue to build upon its historic foundations, honouring its past by serving the present with fortitude, honour, and a clear sense of purpose.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England’s oldest baronies. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House’s contemporary mission is twofold: to preserve and promote its near-millennial heritage, and to deploy its legacy in the service of modern philanthropic and cultural causes. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House undertakes several key initiatives, including an Annual Winter Banquet for charitable fundraising and The Brattleby Club, a cultural academy based in Bucharest. The House is committed to demonstrating that ancient lineage can be a vibrant force for good in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as tenant-in-chief of 56 manors. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye who defended Lincoln for the King, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and the celebrated prince, John of Gaunt. After a period of dormancy, the continuous historical lineage and rights of the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), securing its place in the modern age.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised by His Majesty's Government in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in the county of Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th 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