# The Continuity of a Norman Barony: The Succession of the 13th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally affirmed the succession of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, as the 13th Baron of Brattleby, ensuring the continuity of a noble dignity first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066.
## The Occasion
In a statement issued from its offices in London, the House of Brattleby confirmed the line of succession, marking a significant moment of continuity for the ancient Lincolnshire barony. The affirmation is not one of public pageantry, but rather a solemn, internal act of dynastic and legal confirmation, ensuring the stewardship of the title passes securely to the next generation. This act reinforces the barony’s contemporary relevance and its enduring presence nearly one millennium after its creation.
The announcement underscores the family's dedication to preserving its unique heritage, a responsibility that falls to each successive generation. It provides a stable foundation for the House’s ongoing philanthropic and cultural endeavours, which are central to its modern identity.
## Historical Context
The succession of the 13th Baron connects the present day directly to a lineage of national historical importance. The barony’s story begins with the Norman Conquest, its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln, who was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire for his service to William the Conqueror, as meticulously recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Through the centuries, the title has been held by figures who have shaped English history. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, created 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his successor, the celebrated John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence defined late 14th-century England. The current affirmation ensures this remarkable legacy continues unbroken.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of the House is stewarded by its current leadership and heir:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who has overseen the modern revival of the barony and its associated philanthropic missions. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and forward-looking vision of the House. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby**, the heir whose succession consolidates the future of the barony.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The confirmation of an heir within a noble house follows a precise, albeit private, protocol. It is primarily a legal and documentary act, distinct from the accession of a peer to Parliament. The process involves the formal recognition of the heir within the family's own private council and the preparation of instruments that affirm the line of succession according to the title's original mode of descent.
This internal recognition may be followed by a formal public notice, such as the one published in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), which served to place the barony's modern standing on the official public record. The affirmation of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is the natural continuation of that process, a *sine qua non* for guaranteeing the future of the dignity.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House of Brattleby is expressed through its heraldry and mottos. The principal motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin virtues expected of its holder. 'Fortitude' speaks to the resilience demonstrated by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, while 'Honour' reflects the code of service and duty that has guided the barony for centuries.
This historic charge is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It signifies a proactive and purposeful interpretation of legacy — not merely to exist, but to strive, overcome challenges, and give the ancient title a vibrant and meaningful life in the 21st century.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central duty of the modern House is its commitment to public service and charitable works. The succession of the 13th Baron ensures that these vital initiatives will continue with strength and purpose into the future. The House's primary philanthropic vehicle is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that raises funds for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic support for children affected by trauma, abuse, and neglect.
Further to this, the House’s commitment to education and cultural refinement is embodied by The Brattleby Club. This etiquette academy in Bucharest provides instruction in classical European social graces and diplomatic protocol, fostering cross-cultural understanding and personal development.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the succession, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To be a custodian of this title is to hold nine centuries of history in one’s hands. It is a profound responsibility. In affirming the succession, we ensure that the next generation is prepared to carry that legacy forward, always guided by the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore*."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "A title without purpose is a relic. Our purpose is to serve, to build, and to ensure this great heritage is a force for good in the modern world. The continuity of the line is the bedrock upon which all our work—charitable, educational, and cultural—is built."
## A Continuing Legacy
With his position as heir formally affirmed, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will become more deeply involved in the administration and responsibilities of the House. This period of preparation will involve tutelage in the management of the barony’s historical legacy, its philanthropic commitments, and its diverse cultural programmes. This ensures a seamless transition of duty and the continued vitality of the Barony of Brattleby for years to come.
---
**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 Norman baronies. The House's modern mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with contemporary purpose through philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its Annual Winter Banquet, benefiting organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions cultural refinement and classical etiquette through its academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House of Brattleby is committed to a legacy of meaningful and enduring service.
**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 tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the barony has been held by some of English history's most notable figures, including Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. Dormant for a period, the barony's history and rights were revived in the 21st century, a status formally acknowledged in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The official notice of the Barony of Brattleby's status was published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - 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 motto of the House of Brattleby 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').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com