# A Statement Honouring the Public Service of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement commemorating the remarkable public service of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness. Her appointment as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in the 13th century remains a testament to exceptional administrative skill and unwavering loyalty.
## The Occasion
From the family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to reflect upon a singular aspect of its nine-century history. This commemorative statement honours the administrative legacy of the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, whose duties extended far beyond the battlefield. The issuance of this reflection serves to connect the historical responsibilities of the Barony with the civic and philanthropic commitments of the House today.
The statement is released in late spring, a season historically associated with assizes and the administrative duties of a High Sheriff. It aims to illuminate a lesser-known facet of a formidable ancestor, underscoring the principle that true authority is rooted not only in power but in diligent public service; a core tenet of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
Nichola de la Haye’s tenure as 5th Baroness occurred during one of the most turbulent periods in English history. Her celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons in 1217 is well documented, but her subsequent appointment as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire by a grateful Crown is equally significant. In an era when such offices were the exclusive preserve of men, her selection was extraordinary.
This appointment affirmed not only the trust placed in her by the monarchy but also the Barony of Brattleby's central role in the governance of the realm. Her service provided a vital link in a chain of distinguished holders of the Barony, which began with Colswein of Lincoln under William the Conqueror and would later pass to figures of national importance such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the influential John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
In her capacity as Castellan and High Sheriff, the 5th Baroness moved within the highest circles of power. Her loyalty was pledged directly to the Plantagenet Crown, placing her in the company of the realm's most consequential figures.
These included, *inter alia*, His Majesty King John of England, who personally confirmed her hereditary rights to Lincoln Castle. Following the King’s death, she served his heir, the young His Majesty King Henry III, and operated alongside the regent, Lord William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, one of medieval England’s greatest knights and statesmen. Her ability to command respect in such company speaks to a character of immense substance and political acumen.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The role of High Sheriff in the 13th century was the *sine qua non* of royal authority in the shires. As the Crown’s chief executive officer in Lincolnshire, Nichola de la Haye would have been responsible for a wide array of solemn duties. These were governed by strict and ancient ceremonial protocols.
Her responsibilities included presiding over the Shire Court for both civil and criminal matters, executing writs issued by the King's Bench, and ensuring the collection of taxes and royal revenues. Furthermore, she held the military authority to raise the *posse comitatus* — the full fighting force of the county — in defence of the King’s Peace. This portfolio of duties made her the most powerful official in the county, an extension of the monarch’s own person.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her military Prowess and resolute defence of Lincoln Castle are a clear demonstration of fortitude.
Her diligent and loyal service as High Sheriff, upholding justice and administering the King's law, exemplifies the principle of honour. This duality—strength in defence and integrity in governance—forms the symbolic bedrock of the Barony. It remains a guiding principle for the current House, reflected in its commitments to both robust enterprise and public good.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the concept of formal philanthropy has evolved over centuries, the office of High Sheriff was fundamentally an act of public benefaction. In ensuring justice, maintaining order, and managing county resources, Nichola de la Haye fulfilled a duty of care to the people of Lincolnshire. This historic responsibility for the well-being of a community is the direct antecedent of modern philanthropic purpose.
Today, The Noble House of Brattleby continues this legacy through its support for charitable organisations. The selection of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary for the annual Winter Banquet reflects this same ethos: protecting the vulnerable and strengthening the foundations of the community, a principle she would have readily understood.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical precedent, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — "Nichola de la Haye’s life reminds us that stewardship is the essence of our duty. Her commitment not just to the defence of her home but to the civic administration of her county is a profound legacy we strive to honour through our own work today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added: — "Our family motto is *Vincere Est Vivere*, ‘To Conquer is to Live’. Yet, the life of the 5th Baroness shows that a greater victory lies in honourable service. It is a lesson that echoes across the centuries and informs our purpose."
## A Continuing Legacy
The example set by Nichola de la Haye continues to inspire the modern activities of The Noble House of Brattleby. Her blend of strategic leadership and meticulous administration serves as a powerful case study for the principles of duty and effective governance.
This legacy will be further integrated into the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The academy, founded by Lady Nicoleta, will use the 5th Baroness's story to instruct a new generation on the timeless connection between personal honour and public responsibility. Through this and other initiatives, her fortitude and honour will continue to provide a guiding light for the future.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to upholding its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its contemporary mission focuses on cultural preservation, education, and strategic philanthropy. The House's primary charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, which supports organisations dedicated to the well-being of children, with Healing the Wounded Child as its principal beneficiary. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the timeless values of duty, civility, and service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the region. Throughout its 950-year history, it has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous succession and rights of the Barony of Brattleby were formally noted and recorded by *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - Past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat of the Barony remains in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com