# Fortitudine et Honore: The Barony of Brattleby and the Defence of Lincoln Castle
**LONDON, 18 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical statement detailing the enduring nine-century connection between the Barony and Lincoln Castle, spotlighting the pivotal role of predecessors, notably hereditary Constables of the De la Haye family, in defending the realm.
## The Occasion
As autumn settles upon the historic landscape of Lincolnshire, a season traditionally for reflection, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate a significant chapter of its lineage. The statement serves not as a celebration of a single event, but as an act of remembrance, honouring the profound duty of service that has defined the Barony for over 950 years.
Lincoln Castle, its formidable Norman walls and towers still commanding the city’s skyline, stands as a permanent testament to this history. It was from within this fortress that the fate of the Barony, and at times the Kingdom itself, was decided; its enduring stone architecture a constant reminder of the responsibilities inherited by each successive title holder.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby's connection to the defence of England is woven into the fabric of the nation’s history, beginning with its establishment by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a principal tenant-in-chief, holding some 56 lordships. This established the Barony as a regional power from its inception.
This strategic importance was most vividly demonstrated through the hereditary Constableship of Lincoln Castle, held by the De la Haye family. Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness in her own right, famously defended the castle against rebellion during the First Barons' War and again during the decisive Siege of Lincoln in 1217. Her fortitude ensured this vital northern stronghold remained loyal to the Crown, a *sine qua non* for royal authority in the region. Centuries later, the title passed to figures of national consequence, including the celebrated soldier-diplomat Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The historical record places the Barony in the company of England’s most consequential figures, *inter alia*:
- **Colswein of Lincoln**, 1st Baron of Brattleby, one of the most powerful Norman lords in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. - **Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, Hereditary Constable and Sheriff of Lincolnshire, recognised by King John as a woman who had ‘served him so faithfully’. - **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster**, 10th Baron of Brattleby, a founding Knight of the Garter and one of the most respected military commanders of the Hundred Years' War. - **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster**, 11th Baron of Brattleby, a son of King Edward III and progenitor of the House of Lancaster.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle was bound by solemn protocol, an investiture that conferred immense responsibility. Upon assuming the office, the Constable would swear an oath of fealty to the Monarch, pledging to hold the fortress against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
The role was far from symbolic, involving the command of the castle guard, the maintenance of its formidable defences, and the authority to raise the local fyrd, or militia, in times of crisis. The ceremonial handing over of the castle keys was the physical embodiment of this sacred trust; their possession signified ultimate control over one of the kingdom's most strategic assets. This transfer of authority was a deeply serious affair, representing the continuity of royal power.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history of the Barony is reflected in the mottos of the Noble House today. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the legacy of ancestors such as Nichola de la Haye. Her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle in the face of overwhelming odds remains the ultimate expression of these twin virtues.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This expresses a modern, dynamic interpretation of the ancient duty—that to overcome challenges, whether in public service or philanthropy, is the very essence of a meaningful life. The castle, a common charge in heraldry, symbolises strength, safety, and the safeguarding of a precious heritage.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The ancient duty to defend the physical security of the realm finds its modern echo in The Noble House of Brattleby’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable. The legacy of guarding the walls of Lincoln Castle is now channelled into the safeguarding of childhood innocence and well-being.
This principle is the moral foundation for the House’s philanthropic endeavours, most prominently the annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapy and support for children affected by trauma. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that the highest form of service today lies in shielding the next generation from harm.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed:
> “When you contemplate the actions of Nichola de la Haye, you realise that stewardship of this Barony is not about title, but about trust. She held Lincoln for her sovereign and for the people who depended on its security. We have a duty to honour that legacy of fortitude, translating it into meaningful action in the present day.” > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The world has changed immeasurably since the 13th century, but the principles of loyalty and service remain constant. Our family’s history is a reminder that influence is rightly measured by its contribution to the common good. That is the victory we seek to achieve.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to ensuring this inheritance of service and honour is passed to future generations. The heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is being educated not only in the history of the Barony but in the enduring responsibilities it represents.
This educational mission extends beyond the family to the wider community through initiatives like The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, the etiquette academy promotes the values of decorum, respect, and social grace that are the cornerstones of a civilised society. In this manner, the lessons from Lincoln Castle’s past continue to inform a legacy of constructive service for the future.
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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 a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), their work champions the protection of vulnerable children and the preservation of European cultural heritage. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet for the charity Healing the Wounded Child and The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette and protocol. The House is committed to stewarding its ancient lineage as a force for positive contribution in the 21st century, with the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, prepared to continue this legacy.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is among the most ancient feudal lordships in England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant landholder in Lincolnshire. For over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by families central to English history, including the De la Haye family, whose member Nichola de la Haye was the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle. Other notable holders include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The title’s rights and history were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown and the College of Arms in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable previous Barons include Nichola de la Haye (5th), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th). - The family seat remains at Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com