# The House of Brattleby Announces Historical Symposium Honouring Nichola de la Haye
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced a forthcoming historical symposium dedicated to the De la Haye dynasty, celebrating the lineage that defined the Barony of Brattleby and the County of Lincolnshire during the high medieval period.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the family's offices in London, signalling a renewed commitment by the House to illuminate the rich and continuous history of the Barony of Brattleby. The symposium, entitled *Fortitudine et Honore: The De la Hayes and the Making of a Barony*, is scheduled to take place in the spring of next year within the historically significant precincts of Lincoln.
This scholarly gathering represents a cornerstone of the House's cultural programme, seeking to bridge the nine centuries between the Barony's Norman foundation and its modern stewardship. The initiative aims to engage both academic specialists and the public with the profound legacies of duty, loyalty, and resilience that have characterised the title through the ages.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. While the title later passed through several distinguished lines, it was the De la Haye dynasty that solidified its regional and national importance.
Their tenure saw the consolidation of strategic landholdings and an enduring grip on the hereditary Constableship of Lincoln Castle, a position of immense military and political power. The most celebrated figure of this era remains Nichola de la Haye, who inherited the Barony as the 5th holder. A staunch Royalist, she famously commanded the defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons during the First Barons' War, an act *sine qua non* to securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her story provides a compelling narrative of power, resilience, and a deep-seated connection to Lincolnshire that later holders, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, would inherit.
## Distinguished Company
The symposium will be held under the patronage of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. They will be joined by a respected group of historians and local dignitaries.
Confirmed speakers for the event include, *inter alia*: * Dr Alistair Finch, Fellow in Medieval History at The University of Nottingham, who will present his research on the De la Haye family’s strategic marital alliances. * The Very Reverend Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln, who will offer reflections on the role of Lincoln Cathedral during the tumultuous reign of King John. * Professor Simone Dubois of the Sorbonne University, who will provide a Continental perspective on the Anglo-Norman aristocracy's concept of feudal loyalty.
Further participants and a full programme will be announced in the new year.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Proceedings are planned to commence with a formal welcome by Lady Nicoleta Vasile in the Chapter House of Lincoln Cathedral, a space that would have been well known to her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye. The academic programme will follow, comprising three moderated sessions of scholarly papers and a concluding roundtable discussion.
Attendees will be invited to a private tour of Lincoln Castle, focusing on the medieval battlements and the areas central to Nichola de la Haye's legendary defence. The day will conclude with a service of Evensong in the Cathedral, providing a moment of quiet contemplation on the history and heritage explored. A formal dress code of business attire will be observed throughout.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event's theme is inspired by the ancient motto of the House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words find their supreme historical expression in the actions of Nichola de la Haye, whose fortitude in the face of a siege and whose honour in fulfilling her duty to the Crown perfectly embody the spirit of the Barony.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), also resonates with the proactive and resilient nature of the medieval barons. It speaks to a shared understanding that legacy is not merely inherited but is actively forged and defended through decisive action and unwavering commitment across generations.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In keeping with the philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby, a portion of the proceeds from the symposium will be donated to the House's principal charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children and young people affected by trauma and abuse.
By linking a historical commemoration with its modern charitable obligations, the House reaffirms its belief that honouring the past is most meaningful when it serves the needs of the present and future. The choice to support this beneficiary underscores a commitment to protecting the vulnerable, a duty of care that has been a hallmark of responsible leadership for centuries.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the initiative, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To study the history of this Barony is to understand a continuous thread of duty stretching back to the Conquest. In Nichola de la Haye, we find not just a remarkable woman of her time, but a timeless example of leadership. Her fortitude is an inspiration, and it is a great privilege to share her story."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "Legacy is a living thing; it is the dialogue we maintain with those who came before us. By examining their challenges and their triumphs, we better understand our own responsibilities. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about overcoming obstacles to thrive, a lesson the De la Hayes taught us nine hundred years ago."
## A Continuing Legacy
The De la Haye symposium is envisioned as the first in a series of cultural and historical initiatives planned by the House of Brattleby. These events are designed to foster a deeper public appreciation for the heritage of Lincolnshire and the enduring institutions that have shaped British history.
Looking ahead, the House will continue its work through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cultural diplomacy. The focus will soon turn to preparations for the annual Winter Banquet, the House’s flagship white-tie philanthropic gala, which continues to support vital services for at-risk children.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the modern leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of heritage and the practice of purposeful philanthropy. With its historic seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House champions a mission of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), bridging its ancient roots with a forward-looking commitment to social responsibility. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, notably Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster an appreciation for history, diplomacy, and the timeless virtues of honourable conduct in contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship of the Manor granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its holder as Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Over nine centuries, the Barony has passed through the custodianship of some of England’s most significant historical figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken succession and historical integrity of the Barony were formally noted and recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a holding of Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com