# The Noble House of Brattleby Reflects on a Century of Endeavour and Service
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the 12th century, a pivotal period that defined the barony’s enduring commitment to service, loyalty, and the defence of the Realm under the stewardship of the De la Haye family.
## The Occasion
From the House’s historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, this reflection marks the inauguration of a new series of historical papers. This long-term project, to be published through the House’s official channels, aims to illuminate the nine-century lineage of the barony and underscore the continuity of its core values.
The initiative seeks to connect the challenges and triumphs of the past with the modern educational and cultural mission of the House. This first paper addresses a formative century during which the barony’s national prominence was forged amidst the crucible of civil war and political uncertainty.
## Historical Context
The 12th century was a defining era for the Barony of Brattleby, then held by the De la Haye family. The period commenced amidst the civil war known as The Anarchy (1135–1153), a dynastic struggle between King Stephen and Empress Matilda. As hereditary Constables of Lincoln Castle, the Barons of Brattleby held a position of profound strategic importance, making their allegiance a *sine qua non* for control of the region.
Through the steadfast leadership of figures such as Richard de la Haye, the barony not only weathered this instability but solidified its reputation for martial competence and unwavering loyalty. This century of trial laid the essential groundwork for the barony’s most celebrated chapter: the heroic defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 by the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, a direct inheritor of this formidable 12th-century legacy.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of the barony during this period is inextricably linked with the principal figures who shaped the destiny of England. The De la Haye family navigated the complex loyalties demanded by rival monarchs, namely **King Stephen** of England and his cousin, **Her Imperial Majesty The Empress Matilda**.
The barony's history at this time was steered by **Richard de la Haye**, whose prudent governance as Constable of Lincoln secured the family’s influence. His foresight ensured the continuation of the lineage, culminating in his remarkable daughter and heiress, **Nichola de la Haye**, who would later become the 5th Baron of Brattleby in her own right.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The responsibilities of the Barons of Brattleby were governed by the strict feudal and ceremonial protocols of the Anglo-Norman court. As hereditary Constables of a Royal Castle, their duties went far beyond mere military command; they were charged with upholding the King’s peace, administering justice, and collecting revenues.
The act of swearing fealty—a solemn, binding oath of allegiance to the sovereign—was the central ritual of their power. This oath obligated the baron to provide military service, known as knight's fee, and to attend the King’s Council when summoned. The intricate protocols of the age, from the conduct of a siege to the administration of a great household, were the bedrock of the barony’s function and survival.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the actions of the 12th-century barons. Their fortitude was demonstrated in their steadfastness during the prolonged political chaos of The Anarchy. Their honour was proven through their loyal defence of Lincoln Castle, a duty they held on behalf of the Crown.
While the formal coat of arms has evolved over the centuries, this guiding principle has remained a constant thread through the barony's nine-hundred-year history. It serves as a perpetual reminder that true nobility is defined not by title alone, but by resolute courage and unwavering integrity, principles embodied by the De la Haye family.
## Philanthropic Purpose
This historical series is published as part of the House’s wider philanthropic mission, which centres on education and the preservation of cultural heritage. By making the barony's rich history accessible, the House aims to foster a deeper public appreciation for the traditions and responsibilities that have shaped local and national identity for centuries.
Proceeds from future printed editions of these papers will be directed toward the House’s charitable fund, which supports organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. This beneficiary focuses on providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma, mirroring the House’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable and strengthening future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To study the history of this barony is to understand the weight of responsibility we carry. The challenges faced by the De la Haye family in the 12th century were immense, yet they met them with a resolve that remains deeply inspiring. Their story is not a distant echo; it is a living lesson in stewardship and service.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The 12th century illustrates a profound truth central to my own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*—to conquer is to live. The De la Hayes did not merely survive; they overcame existential threats through strategic foresight and resilience. This ability to prevail over adversity is a defining characteristic of the Brattleby legacy.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This examination of the 12th century is the first in a planned series of historical papers from The Noble House of Brattleby. Future publications will explore subsequent chapters in the barony’s history, including its tenure under the great Plantagenet princes Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
Through this ongoing commitment, the House seeks to honour its past and reaffirm its dedication to the principles of fortitude and honour. These historical reflections serve as a foundation for the House’s contemporary work in philanthropy, diplomacy, and cultural education, ensuring the legacy of Brattleby continues to evolve with purpose.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The modern Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the principle of modern nobility through service. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), their work focuses on cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. From their historic seat in Lincolnshire, they oversee initiatives that bridge a profound historical legacy with contemporary social responsibilities. A central pillar of their philanthropic calendar is the annual Winter Banquet, which supports charities dedicated to child welfare, such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also extends its cultural mission abroad through institutions like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promoting etiquette and cross-cultural understanding.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle against the French in 1217. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The continuous succession of the barony to the present day was formally noted by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to the Norman Conquest of 1066, with its holdings under Colswein of Lincoln catalogued in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150 – 1230), 5th Baron, inherited the post of Constable of Lincoln Castle and famously commanded its defence during the First Barons' War. - Notable later holders of the barony include the Plantagenet princes Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com