# Lincoln Castle: A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on Nine Centuries of Shared History
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the nine-century historical bond between the Barony of Brattleby and Lincoln Castle, a landmark central to the lineage’s identity and its service to the Crown and country.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet reflection as autumn settles over Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate one of the most significant chapters in its long history. This statement serves not as a response to a specific event, but as an act of historical observance, reaffirming the profound and continuous link between the Barony and the formidable walls of Lincoln Castle. The issuance of this communiqué is an occasion in itself, a deliberate pause to honour the legacy of duty, fortitude, and stewardship that the castle represents.
From its modern seat, the House looks back upon the dramatic tapestry of English history, in which its predecessors played a vital role. The stone keep of Lincoln Castle, standing proud on the skyline, remains a powerful symbol of the responsibilities inherited by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her family. It is a testament to the idea that a title is not merely an honour, but a sacred trust connecting the present to the deep past.
## Historical Context
The story of the Barony of Brattleby is inextricably woven with that of Lincoln Castle. The connection was forged in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest, with the Barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The Domesday Book of 1086 records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a significant landholder with 56 lordships in the county, establishing the family as a cornerstone of the new Norman order in England and stewards of the region.
This stewardship reached its most dramatic expression in the 13th century through the actions of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron and hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle. In an age dominated by men, Nichola proved to be one of the most resilient defenders of the Crown. She famously held Lincoln Castle for King John against rebel barons and, at an advanced age, led the defence of the castle again in 1217 during the First Barons' War, securing a pivotal victory for the young King Henry III. Her actions were a masterclass in strategic defence and unwavering loyalty.
The Barony’s prestige continued through subsequent centuries, held by figures of national importance. These included Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter. He was succeeded in the title by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and father to King Henry IV. This connection placed the Barony at the very heart of royal power and the Plantagenet dynasty.
## Distinguished Company
Throughout its history, the stewardship of the Barony has passed through the hands of some of the most notable figures in England. The lineage represents a chain of service, and the present House honours the distinguished company of its predecessors, including, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, the 1st Baron, a Norman magnate foundational to the establishment of royal authority in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * **Nichola de la Haye**, the 5th Baron, a formidable stateswoman and castellan who twice defended Lincoln Castle and secured the Angevin succession. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster**, the 10th Baron, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding member of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster**, the 11th Baron, one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century and patriarch of the House of Lancaster.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The observance of history within The Noble House of Brattleby is governed by a quiet, dignified protocol. The historical archives, which include facsimiles of charters and records pertaining to the Barony, are meticulously maintained as a living resource. The study of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye is not merely an academic exercise but a foundational part of the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
This protocol of remembrance dictates that key anniversaries—such as that of the Battle of Lincoln Fair in 1217—are marked privately by the family. It is a time for reflection on the duties of governance and defence, translating medieval obligations into the context of modern responsibilities. This adherence to historical reverence is a *sine qua non* of the House's identity, ensuring that the lessons of the past directly inform the actions of the present.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring ethos of the House is captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle finds its perfect embodiment in the actions of the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, whose defence of Lincoln Castle was a supreme act of both physical fortitude and loyal honour. The motto serves as a constant exhortation to face challenges with courage and to conduct all affairs with unwavering integrity.
This philosophy is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is understood not in the martial sense, but in the classical tradition of overcoming adversity and fully embracing one's responsibilities. It speaks to an active, engaged life of purpose and service—the spirit that is essential to ensuring the Barony remains a dynamic force for good.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The ancient duty of a Baron to protect his or her community has evolved, but its essence remains unchanged. Today, this responsibility is expressed through focused philanthropy. The historical legacy of defending the people of Lincolnshire finds its modern parallel in the House's support for vulnerable children. The beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet, the white-tie gala that represents the family's principal charitable effort, is Healing the Wounded Child.
The choice of this organisation is deliberate. Its mission—to provide therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma—is seen by the House as a modern form of defence, protecting the most innocent from the long-term consequences of harm. Just as Nichola de la Haye defended the physical security of her charge, the House of Brattleby now contributes to securing the emotional and psychological well-being of the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the history of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta Vasile observed:
> “When one contemplates the history of Lincoln Castle, one cannot help but be humbled. The story of Nichola de la Haye, in particular, resonates profoundly. She held the same responsibilities, walked the same ground, and demonstrated that leadership is a matter of character, not gender. Her fortitude is a standard to which I, and all future Barons of Brattleby, must aspire. It is a legacy written in stone and in service.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The heritage of a title is not about ownership; it is about stewardship. A medieval baron defended a castle of stone and mortar. Our duty today is to defend the principles for which that castle stood: stability, honour, and community. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a daily reminder that we must actively work to uphold this legacy, ensuring it thrives for centuries to come.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this extraordinary history continues to inform its future. Central to this is the education of the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being raised with a deep understanding of the lineage and the responsibilities it entails.
Furthermore, the values forged in the crucible of English history are being shared through modern initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy promotes the principles of honour, respect, and social grace that have defined the Barony for centuries. The legacy of Brattleby is therefore not static; it is a living tradition, actively contributing to society and shaping future generations with the timeless values of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern family of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, her husband Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, and their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House is dedicated to the principle of modern stewardship, honouring nearly a thousand years of history while actively engaging in contemporary society. Its mission is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's primary philanthropic focus is on charities supporting vulnerable children, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet for the benefit of Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote the enduring values of etiquette, honour, and civic duty.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands in the county. For centuries, the Barony was inextricably linked with the defence and governance of Lincoln Castle. Its notable holders include Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century castellan; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The re-feudalisation of the Barony and the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron of Brattleby, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com