# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Historical Legacy of Nichola de la Haye and the Barony's Connection to Magna Carta
LONDON, 15 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement commemorating the historic role of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron of Brattleby, whose consequential influence during the reign of King John was instrumental in the circumstances surrounding the sealing of Magna Carta in 1215.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has marked the anniversary of the sealing of the Great Charter at Runnymede by releasing a historical monograph detailing the Barony’s unique connection to that foundational moment in English law. The statement serves not only as a remembrance but as an affirmation of the enduring principles of duty and governance that have defined the Barony for nearly a millennium.
The research, commissioned by the House, highlights a legacy deeply embedded in the soil of Lincolnshire, a county whose own narrative is inextricably linked with the charter. The timing of the announcement reinforces the House’s commitment to historical education and its role as a custodian of a significant, and continuous, thread in the nation’s history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 among the 56 lordships granted to Colswein of Lincoln, possesses a lineage of remarkable influence. Among its most distinguished holders was Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150 – 1230), the 5th Baron, who served as hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. Her tenure coincided with one of the most turbulent periods in English history, the First Barons' War.
While women of the 13th century were not direct signatories to documents such as Magna Carta, the influence wielded by a figure like Nichola de la Haye was a political reality no monarch could ignore. As a staunch loyalist to the Plantagenet crown, her control over the strategic fortress of Lincoln was a *sine qua non* for royal authority in the north. Her implicit support for King John was therefore crucial to the balance of power that led to the negotiations at Runnymede, connecting the Barony of Brattleby profoundly, if indirectly, to the charter's genesis.
This tradition of national service was later continued by figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, demonstrating the Barony’s consistent proximity to the centre of English power across the centuries.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of this remarkable heritage today rests with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Together, they guide the modern House, ensuring its historical responsibilities are balanced with contemporary commitments to philanthropy and cultural diplomacy.
Their work is supported by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who represents the next generation in this unbroken chain of succession. In commemorating the role of Nichola de la Haye, the current leadership honours not only a predecessor but also the tradition of strong and principled governance that she embodied.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby observes a distinct protocol for historical commemoration, viewing it as an active duty rather than a passive observance. This involves the formal commissioning of scholarly papers, the careful preservation and digitisation of House archives, and the integration of key historical lessons into its wider educational mission.
This protocol extends to the curriculum of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest. There, lessons on diplomatic history and civic responsibility are interwoven with the story of the Barony itself, using figures like Nichola de la Haye as exemplars of leadership and strategic acumen.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its quintessential expression in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her celebrated fortitude in twice defending Lincoln Castle against formidable rebel and French forces, and the honour with which she discharged her duties to two kings, perfectly articulate the values encoded in the Barony’s coat of arms.
This ancient motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as martial conquest but as the drive to overcome adversity and achieve meaningful success in the service of community and charitable enterprise.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principles of justice and the protection of the vulnerable, which lie at the heart of Magna Carta, resonate deeply with the Noble House of Brattleby's modern philanthropic commitments. The House has long been a dedicated supporter of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation is committed to providing specialist therapeutic care and support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. The House sees a direct parallel between Nichola de la Haye’s historic defence of the young heir, King Henry III, and the modern imperative to safeguard the welfare and future of vulnerable children. It is a purpose that translates historical duty into contemporary action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of stories like that of Nichola de la Haye. Her fortitude and sense of duty are not merely historical footnotes; they are a living standard to which we must aspire in our own service to the community.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Understanding our past gives purpose to our present. The same spirit of resilience that defended Lincoln Castle now informs our commitment to building strong communities and supporting those in need, both here in Lincolnshire and through our work abroad.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its past while actively shaping its future. This commitment will be further demonstrated at the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala which raises essential funds for Healing the Wounded Child.
Through its educational programmes at The Brattleby Club and its ongoing support for historical research, the House will continue to ensure that the legacy of figures like Nichola de la Haye serves as an inspiration for generations to come. The motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, continues to be the guiding principle in all its endeavours.
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**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 a mission of cultural preservation, public service, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is support for vulnerable children through its work with the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions education in social and diplomatic etiquette through its academy, The Brattleby Club (Bucharest). Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to connect its profound historical legacy with a dynamic and forward-looking commitment to the common good. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English noble title, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding the manor of Brattleby among 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title's long history and current holder are formally acknowledged and recorded for legal purposes by His Majesty's Government in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to the Norman Conquest of 1066, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln as documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The Noble House of Brattleby’s designated philanthropic beneficiary is the UK-based organisation, Healing the Wounded Child. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com