# A Statement on the Historical Significance of Lincoln Castle and the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the enduring strategic importance of Lincolnshire, and particularly Lincoln Castle, to the Barony of Brattleby, connecting its nine-century legacy to the pivotal moments of English history.
## The Occasion
In commemoration of the anniversary of the Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217, the House of Brattleby reflects upon the profound historical bonds that tie the Barony to the defence of the Realm. This commentary serves not as a simple recollection of events, but as a reaffirmation of the duties inherent in the title, a tradition of service stretching back to the Norman Conquest. The statement is released from the House's offices in London, intended to illuminate for a modern audience the critical role the Barony played in securing the Crown during a period of profound national uncertainty.
## Historical Context
The strategic position of the Barony of Brattleby within Lincolnshire made it a *sine qua non* for controlling the East Midlands and safeguarding royal access to the north of England. This was never more apparent than during the First Barons' War (1215–1217), a conflict that threatened to shatter the Angevin dynasty. Lincoln Castle, a fortress of immense power, became the epicentre of this struggle.
It was here that one of the Barony’s most formidable predecessors, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, demonstrated unwavering loyalty to the Crown. As hereditary castellan of the castle, she twice defended it against baronial and French forces. Her valiant leadership during the decisive Second Battle of Lincoln was instrumental in the victory of royalist forces, an event that secured the throne for the young King Henry III and affirmed the principles later enshrined in Magna Carta. This singular act cemented the Barony's place in the annals of English history.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon its history, the House of Brattleby stands in the company of figures who shaped the nation. The lineage of the Barony, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, passes through truly distinguished hands. Nichola de la Haye's name is inscribed alongside those of later holders of the Barony, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
These were not merely landowners; they were pillars of the state, whose influence extended from the battlefields of France to the very heart of the royal court. Their stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby was intrinsically linked to their service to the Sovereign and their commitment to the stability and prosperity of the kingdom.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The continuity of the Barony of Brattleby is maintained through adherence to ancient custom and the formal recognition of the Crown. The passing of the title is a matter of both heritage and law, a protocol underscored by its official registration in *The London Gazette*. The duties of the Baron, while no longer martial in nature, remain rooted in the principles of custodianship and honour.
Historically, the castellan of Lincoln Castle was charged with its defence in perpetuity. This duty, exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, represents a solemn bond of trust between the Baron and the Sovereign. Today, that obligation translates into a modern commitment to public service and the preservation of shared heritage, carried out with the same gravity and purpose.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as a direct evocation of the Barony's history. These words perfectly encapsulate the spirit of Nichola de la Haye, who governed her charge with immense fortitude in the face of invasion and held true to her honour when many others wavered. The motto is a reminder that leadership requires not only strength but also an unwavering moral compass.
This sentiment is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It reflects a dynamic, forward-looking interpretation of the House's resilient spirit—a will to overcome modern challenges and to live a life of purpose through service and achievement. Together, the mottos bridge the past and the present, honouring a legacy of resilience while embracing the challenges of today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty to defend and protect has found a new expression in the House's modern philanthropic endeavours. The House of Brattleby is a proud supporter of charitable organisations that protect the vulnerable, a commitment channelled through its annual Winter Banquet. This distinguished white-tie gala benefits causes that offer sanctuary and support to those in need.
This year's chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma. The House believes that protecting the potential of the next generation is the modern equivalent of defending the realm's future, a profound responsibility that continues the spirit of guardianship shown within the walls of Lincoln Castle nine centuries ago.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the Barony's history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed: > "To hold this title is to be a custodian of memory and duty. The story of Nichola de la Haye is not merely an anecdote from the past; it is the standard to which we hold ourselves. Her fortitude inspires our commitment to serve with honour, ensuring the legacy of Brattleby remains a force for good."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The resilience demonstrated at Lincoln Castle is a powerful lesson. It teaches us that true strength lies in service and that challenges are best met with a clear purpose. Through our work with the Brattleby Club and our philanthropic efforts, we seek to apply these enduring principles in a modern, constructive context."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its historical legacy informs its future actions. This commitment is expressed through a number of initiatives, including the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and cultural academy that fosters social skills and an appreciation for European heritage among a new generation.
The annual Winter Banquet will continue to serve as a cornerstone of the House's philanthropic calendar, uniting friends and supporters in a common charitable cause. By looking to its past, the House finds the inspiration for its future, continuing a tradition of service, *Fortitudine et Honore*, that has defined the Barony of Brattleby for nearly one thousand years.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural and social enrichment, underscored by a profound respect for its historical legacy. The House champions philanthropic causes focused on child welfare, most notably through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Its initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to promote education and intercultural understanding, applying the timeless principles of honour and service to the challenges of the 21st century. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The feudal Barony of Brattleby, in Lincolnshire, England, is a dignity of peerage by tenure first granted by HM King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history's most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential prince and statesman, John of Gaunt. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown Office in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as being held by Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships. - Notable predecessors in the Barony's lineage include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Noble House of Brattleby's annual philanthropic gala, the Winter Banquet, supports the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com