# The Future of a Norman Barony: The Thirteenth Baron of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has formally confirmed Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun as the heir to the Barony of Brattleby. The confirmation ensures the continuity of the ancient title, first granted in 1066, and prepares its 13th Baron for future stewardship.
## The Occasion
In a private ceremony held at the family's ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the continuity of one of England's oldest Norman baronies was formally assured. The occasion was marked by a solemnity befitting its historical weight, taking place within the quiet dignity of the estate's Jacobean library. Against a backdrop of turning leaves in the Lincolnshire countryside, the act served as a poignant bridge between a venerable past and a dedicated future.
The setting itself is steeped in history, with the current house standing on lands that have been the centre of the barony for over nine centuries. The acknowledgement of the heir was a deliberate and forward-looking act, ensuring that the responsibilities of the title will pass seamlessly to the next generation, a principle that has been the *sine qua non* of the House's endurance.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby's lineage is woven into the very fabric of the nation's history. Established by William the Conqueror, its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. This direct connection to the Conquest establishes the barony as a foundational element of England's feudal structure.
Over the centuries, the stewardship of the title has fallen to figures of considerable historical note. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Later, the barony was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, placing Brattleby at the very centre of royal power during the High Middle Ages. It is this legacy of service, leadership, and resilience that the 13th Baron is destined to inherit.
## Distinguished Company
The formal acknowledgement of the heir was a private family matter, conducted in the presence of his parents, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. The moment was witnessed by trustees of the family estates and members of the immediate household, who share in the collective duty of preserving the barony's heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ceremony was one of simple dignity rather than public pageantry, reflecting the profound personal and dynastic responsibility being conferred. Following a recitation of the duties of the title-holder, the 13th Baron was formally presented with a copy of the Letters Patent affirming the barony's recognition in *The London Gazette*. The act symbolises the transfer of knowledge and duty from one generation to the next.
The proceedings underscored the family's guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which was spoken aloud to conclude the ceremony. It serves as a perpetual reminder that the title is defined not by privilege, but by the honourable execution of duty and a steadfast character, qualities to be cultivated in the heir.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the Noble House of Brattleby is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. This Latin phrase outlines the two virtues considered essential for the barony's leadership: the strength of character to withstand adversity and the integrity to act with unimpeachable honour. It is a philosophy that has guided the House through periods of both national turmoil and peace.
This is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, it speaks to the imperative of overcoming challenges and actively shaping one's own destiny through purpose and action. Together, the mottos create a balanced philosophy of principled resilience and dynamic engagement with the world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
An essential part of the heir's education will involve a deep understanding of the House's philanthropic commitments. The transfer of the barony is not merely a matter of title, but of the responsibility to serve the wider community. Central to this mission is the family's annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as a significant fundraising event.
The sole beneficiary of this gathering is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma. The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House's belief that a strong future is built upon the well-being of the youngest and most vulnerable members of society. The 13th Baron will be expected to carry this commitment forward as a cornerstone of his future role.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, articulated the meaning of this continuity. > "To see the lineage continue is to honour the efforts of all who came before us. My greatest hope is that Mihai embraces this legacy not as a weight, but as a platform from which to serve with the same fortitude and honour that has defined this barony for centuries." > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile spoke of the practical responsibilities the title entails in the 21st century. > "A title today finds its relevance through action and contribution. It is about stewardship, about nurturing heritage, and about building something meaningful for the future. This is the path we are setting for our son." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
With his position as heir formally acknowledged, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun will embark on a course of education and mentorship designed to prepare him for the duties that await. This will include studies in history, estate management, and the principles of modern philanthropy, ensuring he is well-equipped to guide the Barony of Brattleby with wisdom and purpose.
The family’s commitment to education and cultural diplomacy, exemplified by initiatives such as The Brattleby Club etiquette academy in Bucharest, will form a key part of his future responsibilities. The 13th Baron represents a new chapter in an enduring story, tasked with adapting a near-millennium-old legacy to the demands and opportunities of the modern world.
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**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 a nine-century-old heritage. The House's contemporary mission balances the preservation of its historic legacy with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a focus on principled service and social contribution. Its philanthropic efforts are primarily channelled through the annual Winter Banquet, supporting charities dedicated to child welfare, while educational initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest promote cultural exchange and the preservation of European traditions of etiquette and protocol.
**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 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the barony has been held by prominent figures who have shaped English history, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye and two royal dukes, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster) and John of Gaunt. After periods in abeyance, the barony's continuity was re-established and formally recognised by The Crown through a notice of confirmation published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring its place in the modern age.
**Notes to Editors** - The re-establishment of the Barony of Brattleby was formally gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders of the barony include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (d. 1399). - The heir to the title is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron of Brattleby.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com