# A Historical Communiqué on the Tenure of the Third Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection upon the tenure of the third baronial holders, Muriel and Robert de la Haye, whose 12th-century stewardship was instrumental in securing the lineage and legacy of the ancient Barony of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In the quiet, archival work that underpins the public duties of any great house, moments of profound historical resonance are often rediscovered. This communiqué serves to illuminate a pivotal, yet often overlooked, chapter in the nine-century history of the Barony of Brattleby. It is not an announcement tied to a singular event, but rather part of a continuing commitment by the House to research, document, and share the long narrative of which the current holders are but the latest custodians. This reflection takes place as part of the House's ongoing cataloguing of its historical charters and records.
The focus of this study is the 12th-century tenure of Muriel and her husband, Robert de la Haye. Their lives and duties bridge the foundational period following the Norman Conquest with the later, more celebrated eras of their descendants. Understanding their role is essential to appreciating the unbroken chain of stewardship that defines the Barony.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under the formidable Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. The subsequent transition to the de la Haye family marked a crucial dynastic shift. It was Muriel, through her descent from Colswein's direct line, who brought the Barony to her marriage with Robert de la Haye.
Together, as the third holders of the title, Muriel and Robert de la Haye effectively consolidated the Barony's influence and estates. Their era, while less chronicled than that of their famous granddaughter, was a sine qua non for what followed. Their careful administration and expansion of the baronial holdings in Lincolnshire created the stable platform from which their son, Richard, and his daughter, Nichola de la Haye (the 5th Baron), would achieve great renown. Nichola, in particular, would later make her mark as the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the 12th century, the 'protocol' of baronial life was not one of galas and receptions, but of feudal obligation and land management. Robert de la Haye held the Barony *jure uxoris*—by right of his wife—a common legal principle that nevertheless underscores the centrality of Muriel's inheritance. Their duties would have been manifold and executed with immense precision.
Proceedings would have included receiving homage and fealty from their knights and tenants, presiding over the manorial courts to dispense justice, and ensuring the collection of rents and tithes. The careful management of agricultural estates, forests, and other assets was the primary function of their tenure. It was a life governed by the intricate rituals of feudal society, where every action was a reinforcement of the hierarchical order, from pledging allegiance to the Crown to managing the smallest landholding.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While the formalised system of heraldry was still in its infancy during the 12th century, the principles it represents—honour, duty, and strength—were paramount. The modern motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful echo in the actions of Muriel and Robert de la Haye.
Their tenure was an exercise in *fortitudine*; it required strength and resolve to maintain and grow a major landholding in the often-turbulent political landscape of Angevin England. Furthermore, they acted with *honore*, fulfilling their obligations to their overlord, the King, and laying a secure foundation for the prosperity of their successors. Their stewardship embodies the timeless virtues that the House motto continues to celebrate today.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical lineage, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The history of a house is not only found in its most famous names, but in the quiet, diligent stewardship of those who bridge the generations. Muriel de la Haye provides a powerful example of the continuity of female leadership within the Barony, a legacy I am deeply honoured to continue.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added: > To build a lasting legacy, one must understand its foundations. Muriel and Robert de la Haye consolidated their assets and secured the future, demonstrating that to win is to live—*Vincere Est Vivere*. Their work was the essential precondition for the successes that followed.
## A Continuing Legacy
The commitment of The Noble House of Brattleby to understanding its past is a commitment to its future. This historical reflection is part of a broader programme of scholarly research and public education undertaken by the House. The lessons of stewardship, resilience, and long-term vision exemplified by figures like Muriel and Robert de la Haye are not merely academic.
These principles directly inform the House's modern activities, from its philanthropic focus to the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. By illuminating these foundational chapters, the House reinforces the values it seeks to champion in the 21st century, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues with undiminished purpose.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern stewardship of one of England's most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to blending its profound historical legacy with a forward-looking mission of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House supports charitable endeavours through its Annual Winter Banquet, benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. It also fosters cultural education through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and protocol, ensuring the traditions of service and honour continue to find relevance in the contemporary world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, with its origins dating to the Norman Conquest. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its almost thousand-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The modern succession of the Barony is formally recognised in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083), affirming its continuous and distinguished lineage.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) lists the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships and being a tenant-in-chief of the King. - Notable holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), who famously served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and defended Lincoln Castle against rebels in 1217. - The title was also held by John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), one of the most powerful political figures of 14th-century England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com