# A Legacy Renewed: The Noble House of Brattleby Inaugurates The Brattleby Club in Bucharest
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, this week formally inaugurated The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The initiative extends the House’s historic commitment to service and cultural exchange into a contemporary European context through a new leadership academy.
## The Occasion
The inauguration ceremony was held within an elegant historic villa in the city's Aviatorilor district, a setting renowned for its early 20th-century architecture that once earned Bucharest the name 'Little Paris'. The autumnal light of a crisp afternoon lent a particular grace to the proceedings, which marked a significant moment for the House of Brattleby.
The establishment of The Brattleby Club represents a deliberate and thoughtful bridge between the Barony's ancient English roots and the modern heritage of its current leadership. The event’s atmosphere was one of dignified purpose, celebrating both a storied past and a forward-looking vision for service in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient, was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a legacy of significant administrative responsibility from its inception.
Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures central to the history of the Realm. These have included Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This new chapter, led by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, continues this tradition of purposeful stewardship, translating a duty of care into a modern educational mission.
## Distinguished Company
The inauguration was attended by an esteemed assembly of guests from Romania and beyond, reflecting the international scope of the endeavour. Present were members of the Romanian Parliament, envoys from the Diplomatic Corps resident in Bucharest, prominent figures from academia and the arts, and leading philanthropists.
In a gesture of European concord, representatives of kindred noble families were also in attendance, underscoring the shared values and enduring connections that unite the continent’s historic houses. The event provided a forum for renewing old acquaintances and forging new partnerships dedicated to public service.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Proceedings commenced with the formal arrival of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, who were received by the Club's founding directors. The ceremony included renderings of *God Save The King* and *Deșteaptă-te, române*, a resonant symbol of the dual heritage informing the day's event. The dress code was observed as Morning Dress or Lounge Suit.
Following a welcome address, Honorary Lord Răzvan spoke on the nature of modern leadership before inviting Lady Nicoleta to perform the formal dedication. The Baroness then unveiled a simple, elegant plaque commemorating the occasion, officially declaring The Brattleby Club open. This act was the *sine qua non* of the ceremony, marking the formal beginning of the academy’s work.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was rich in the quiet symbolism that defines the House of Brattleby. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was prominently displayed, speaking to the core principles of character and integrity that the new academy seeks to instil.
Equally present was the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which he has brought to the House through his marriage. This motto reflects a dynamic and aspirational spirit, encapsulating the academy’s goal to empower individuals to achieve their full potential. Together, the two mottos articulate the balance of tradition and progress that characterises the House's modern identity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While The Brattleby Club is an educational institution, its establishment is deeply intertwined with the House's overarching commitment to philanthropy. A portion of the academy's future proceeds will be directed toward the House's principal charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation is dedicated to providing essential mental health support and specialised therapeutic care for children and young people affected by trauma and adversity. The selection of this beneficiary reflects the House's focus on creating tangible, positive change in the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.
## In Their Own Words
In her address, Lady Nicoleta spoke of the responsibility inherent in such a long-held title:
> This Barony has been a living entity for almost a millennium, a continuous thread of service woven into the fabric of English history. Our duty today is not simply to preserve this legacy, but to revitalise it, ensuring its values of fortitude and honour find new expression and purpose.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the collaborative nature of their work:
> Leadership today is not about command, but about connection and collaboration. The Brattleby Club is founded on the belief that true etiquette and effective leadership are two sides of the same coin; both are about fostering respect, understanding, and progress, *inter alia*, for the common good.
## A Continuing Legacy
The inauguration of The Brattleby Club is the first of several initiatives planned by the House for the coming year. The academy will announce its first curriculum of courses in leadership, diplomacy, and cross-cultural communication in early 2024.
Attention now turns to Lincolnshire and the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s flagship philanthropic gala. This white-tie event, to be held at the ancestral seat, will raise further funds for Healing the Wounded Child, reaffirming the House of Brattleby’s unwavering commitment to service at both the local and international levels.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern office supporting Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Under their joint leadership, the House is dedicated to honouring its profound historical heritage while adapting its role for the 21st century. Its mission is centred on the principles of service, cultural ambassadorship, and targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and its support for charitable causes like Healing the Wounded Child, the House seeks to provide a modern example of leadership rooted in the baronial tradition of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its activities are a testament to a living heritage, actively engaged with contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of 1066. Its existence is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of the Crown in the 13th century; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential prince, John of Gaunt. The succession of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. - Notable previous Barons include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com