# The House of Brattleby Commemorates Baroness Nichola de la Haye's Historic Defence of Lincoln
BRATTLEBY, [20 October 2024] — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today delivered a historical address at Lincoln Castle, honouring the formidable legacy of her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, and her pivotal role in securing the English throne during the First Barons' War.
## The Occasion
Set within the imposing Norman walls of Lincoln Castle, the Nichola de la Haye Commemorative Lecture was held as autumn twilight descended upon Lincolnshire. The venue, itself the very stage for the 5th Baroness's most celebrated deeds, provided an atmosphere of profound historical resonance. Guests gathered in the restored Victorian Prison Chapel, its architecture a solemn backdrop to an evening dedicated to duty, resilience, and the continuity of English heritage. The choice of location was a deliberate act of homage, connecting the modern House of Brattleby directly to the physical legacy of its most esteemed ancestors.
The event, attended by local dignitaries and historians, sought to illuminate a crucial but often overlooked chapter in the history of the Barony and the nation. It was an occasion not of celebration, but of thoughtful remembrance and academic reflection on the burdens of leadership in a time of national crisis. The air was one of quiet contemplation, underscored by the tangible sense of history that permeates the ancient castle grounds.
## Historical Context
The address by Lady Nicoleta Vasile situated the actions of Nichola de la Haye within one of England’s most turbulent periods. King John's reign (1199–1216) was marked by military defeat abroad and profound dissent at home, culminating in the sealing of *Magna Carta* in 1215 and the subsequent First Barons' War. As hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, was placed in a position of immense strategic importance.
Initially a steadfast supporter of King John, Nichola’s ultimate test came after his death in 1216. With rebel English barons and their French allies supporting an invasion by Prince Louis of France, she held Lincoln Castle for the boy-king, Henry III. In 1217, at an advanced age, she commanded the castle’s defence during a brutal siege, an act of loyalty that proved instrumental in the decisive royalist victory at the Second Battle of Lincoln. Her fortitude secured the Plantagenet succession, linking the Barony of Brattleby forever to a pivotal moment in the formation of the English state. This legacy of service would later pass through other notable Barons, *inter alia*, the great military commander Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
## Distinguished Company
The address was delivered before a small but distinguished company, reflecting the historical and civic nature of the occasion. In attendance was the heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who accompanied Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
They were joined by:
- The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire - The Right Worshipful The Mayor of Lincoln - The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lincoln - The Dean of Lincoln Cathedral - Leading academics in medieval history from several British universities - Representatives of the local judiciary and county council
The presence of these figures underscored the deep connection between the Barony of Brattleby and the civic and academic life of Lincolnshire, a relationship cultivated over nine and a half centuries.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were conducted with a formality befitting the occasion. Guests were received by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in the prison's main atrium before being seated in the chapel. The dress code was Morning Dress or Lounge Suit, respecting the solemnity of the event and its historic setting.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire provided a formal introduction, outlining the historical significance of the Barony and the remarkable life of Nichola de la Haye. Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, then delivered her address from a simple lectern draped in the colours of the House. The address, lasting approximately 25 minutes, was followed by a formal vote of thanks from a Regius Professor of History, who commended the House for its commitment to preserving and interpreting its unique heritage. The evening concluded with a private reception for the assembled guests.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was imbued with the symbolism of the House's ancient and modern mottos. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was the central theme of the address. Lady Nicoleta explained how these words perfectly encapsulate the character of Nichola de la Haye, whose defence of Lincoln Castle was a masterclass in both physical courage and principled loyalty. Fortitude was her shield; her honour was her cause.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This reflects the dynamic, forward-looking ethos that he and Lady Nicoleta have brought to the ancient Barony. It speaks not of military conquest, but of the will to overcome challenges, to achieve excellence, and to ensure the House's legacy thrives through active and purposeful engagement with the modern world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the commemorative lecture was primarily an educational and historical event, it was framed within the House's broader philosophy of service. The principle of *noblesse oblige* — that privilege entails responsibility — is the *sine qua non* of the House of Brattleby’s modern mission. This commitment finds its most direct expression in the House’s dedicated philanthropic work.
The primary beneficiary of the House's charitable endeavours is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapeutic care for children and young people who have experienced trauma. The funds raised at the House's Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, directly support the charity's programmes, enabling them to expand their reach and provide critical mental health support to vulnerable youth across the United Kingdom.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> Nichola de la Haye’s life teaches us that leadership is not merely about holding a title, but about demonstrating courage under pressure and remaining steadfast in one’s duty, even when the personal cost is high. Her fortitude and honour are not just words in our motto; they are the living standard we strive to meet in our own service today.
## A Continuing Legacy
This commemorative lecture marks the beginning of a renewed commitment from the House of Brattleby to historical education. It is intended to be the inaugural event in an annual series dedicated to exploring the rich and varied history of the Barony and its impact on the wider narrative of Great Britain.
Furthermore, the House is exploring a partnership with the University of Lincoln to establish a postgraduate scholarship in medieval studies, named in honour of Nichola de la Haye. This initiative, alongside the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest in promoting cultural etiquette, forms a key part of the House's mission to bridge its profound history with a meaningful and contemporary public purpose.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to stewarding a unique historical legacy for the 21st century. Its mission is to bridge its nine-century heritage with a modern programme of public service, historical education, and targeted philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is on supporting youth mental health through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as its annual historical lectures and its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the enduring values of duty, cultural understanding, and civic responsibility under its guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and significant landholdings are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records Colswein as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, the royal prince John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern succession of the Barony to Lady Nicoleta Vasile is formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the Barony 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