# The House of Brattleby Publishes Historical Monograph on Nichola de la Haye
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the publication of a new historical monograph examining the life and legacy of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, celebrating her pivotal role in thirteenth-century English affairs.
## The Occasion
Coinciding with the anniversary of the First Battle of Lincoln, The Noble House of Brattleby has formally released *Fortitudine et Honore: The Life and Lordship of Nichola de la Haye*. The paper represents the culmination of a year-long research project undertaken to illuminate one of the most remarkable figures in the barony’s extensive history. The publication is not marked by a physical gathering, but rather by its solemn deposition into the national archives and its digital release, making this chapter of English history accessible to a global audience of scholars and enthusiasts. This scholarly initiative reflects the House’s commitment to its role as a custodian of heritage, bringing the past into dialogue with the present.
## Historical Context
The monograph situates Nichola de la Haye within the vast timeline of a barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The lineage begins with Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron, whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire were meticulously recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. While the barony later passed through the hands of titans like Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, it was Nichola de la Haye’s tenure that proved *sine qua non* for the security of the Crown in a period of profound civil unrest. As Castellan of Lincoln Castle, her steadfast defence of the stronghold against baronial and French forces was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III, an act of fortitude that has echoed through the centuries.
## Distinguished Company
The research was conducted under the guidance of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, with Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile providing strategic oversight. The resulting paper formally acknowledges the invaluable assistance of archivists at the Lincolnshire Archives and academic consultants from the University of Lincoln’s Medieval Studies department. The acknowledgements also extend to several private historians who provided access to comparative genealogical records, ensuring a comprehensive and rigorously vetted account. This collaborative effort underpins the House's scholarly approach to its own formidable history.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The release of the monograph followed a precise protocol befitting a work of historical significance. After a final review by a panel of independent medievalists, the paper was digitally watermarked with the House’s coat of arms. In accordance with legal deposit regulations, a formal copy was submitted to the British Library. Simultaneously, the document was published on the official website of The Noble House of Brattleby, made available to the public without charge. This method ensures both the permanent preservation of the research and its widespread, democratic dissemination, fulfilling an educational duty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The life of Nichola de la Haye is a powerful embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her resolve in the face of a siege and her unwavering loyalty to the Crown are the very definition of fortitude, while her honourable conduct as Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire set a standard for regional governance. The monograph explores this direct link between her actions and the motto that defines the House to this day. It also touches upon the martial spirit of the era, reflected in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the crusading zeal of Nichola’s contemporaries, *inter alia*.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While not a fundraising initiative, the publication serves a distinct philanthropic purpose centered on education and cultural preservation. By investing in and disseminating high-calibre historical research, the House provides a valuable resource for students, educators, and the public. This act of 'archival philanthropy' ensures that the stories of figures like Nichola de la Haye are not lost to time but are instead shared to inspire future generations. It is a long-term investment in the intellectual and cultural heritage of Lincolnshire and the nation, complementing the House's more direct charitable work.
## In Their Own Words
> The story of Nichola de la Haye is one of exceptional leadership in an age that rarely afforded women such authority. Her life is a profound source of inspiration, reminding us that the duty to serve and protect one's community is timeless. To see her story shared is to honour her legacy in the most meaningful way. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> History is not a static collection of dates; it is a dynamic source of wisdom. By studying the resilience and strategic acumen of predecessors like the 5th Baroness, we better understand the responsibilities we hold today. Our motto is *Fortitudine et Honore*, and she is perhaps its greatest exemplar. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of this monograph marks the first in a planned series of historical papers dedicated to the Barony of Brattleby. Future research will explore the tenures of Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, as well as the barony’s role during the Wars of the Roses. These scholarly works will serve as foundational texts for educational modules at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, translating nearly a millennium of English heritage into lessons on leadership, etiquette, and civic duty for a modern European audience. The House remains steadfast in its commitment to animating its history for the benefit of the public.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the preservation of its profound historical legacy and its application to modern challenges. The House’s mission, 'With Fortitude and Honour', is expressed through disciplined historical research, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary philanthropic beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support to vulnerable children. The House also extends its cultural and educational mission through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, founded in Bucharest to promote the timeless values of European courtly tradition. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter; and his successor, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The modern rights and title of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of 1066. - The title of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's primary philanthropic focus is its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com