# A Statement on the Enduring Legacy of Nichola de la Haye and William Marshal
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the historic association between the Barony of Brattleby and William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, cemented through his profound respect for the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye.
## The Occasion
From the archives of its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this autumn season to illuminate a pivotal moment in English history. This reflection serves as a reminder of the barony’s deep continuity and its foundational principles, which have been tested and proven over nine centuries. In an age of fleeting headlines, the House reaffirms its duty to preserve and share the substantive narratives that form the bedrock of its heritage, celebrating the remarkable individuals who shaped its character.
This act of historical remembrance connects the ancient past with the House's present-day responsibilities. It is an exercise in honouring the resilience and leadership demonstrated by predecessors, ensuring their stories continue to inspire. The occasion is not one of recent event, but of enduring principle, brought forth from the family records as a lesson in fortitude and honour that resonates today.
## Historical Context
In the turbulent spring of 1217, the future of the Plantagenet crown rested on a knife's edge. Following the death of King John and the contested accession of his nine-year-old son, Henry III, England was fractured by the First Barons' War. A French dauphin, Prince Louis, held London and commanded the allegiance of many rebel English barons, threatening to extinguish the reigning dynasty.
At this critical juncture, two figures stood against the tide: William Marshal, the aged but legendary knight serving as Regent of England, and Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby and hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle. In her sixties, Lady Nichola staunchly defended Lincoln Castle—a strategic *sine qua non* for control of the north—against a combined French and rebel siege. Her resolve was so formidable that William Marshal, leading the royalist relief force, placed his complete trust in her command. Their subsequent victory at the Battle of Lincoln Fair was decisive, securing the throne for Henry III and preserving the course of English history. Marshal's public admiration for the Baroness was a testament to her exceptional competence and courage.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 brought together some of the most consequential figures of the medieval era, whose actions have echoed through the lineage of the Barony of Brattleby. The principal actors in this great historical drama included:
* **Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle. * **The Right Honourable William Marshal**, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England. * **His Majesty King Henry III**, the boy-king whose crown they fought to preserve. * **Prince Louis of France**, the rival claimant to the English throne.
This episode adds to a distinguished line of historical figures associated with the Barony, which over the centuries has included, *inter alia*, **Henry of Grosmont**, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, **John of Gaunt**, 11th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The events of the siege were governed by the strict protocols of medieval fealty and warfare. As hereditary Constable, Nichola de la Haye's authority over Lincoln Castle was not merely granted but inherited, a sacred trust passed down through her family line. Her defence of the castle was the fulfilment of a solemn oath sworn to the Crown, an obligation she upheld with unwavering dedication even when the monarchy itself seemed imperilled.
William Marshal, acting as Regent, wielded the full authority of the King. His decision to entrust the defence to Lady Nichola and subsequently lead the relief forces followed the established order of military command. The formal respect he accorded her, both before and after the battle, underscored that her authority was legitimate and her ability proven. This was not merely the praise of one soldier for another; it was a formal recognition, by the acting Head of State, of a vassal's exemplary service.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye in 1217 serve as a powerful early embodiment of the principles enshrined in the mottos of The Noble House of Brattleby. The House motto, **Fortitudine et Honore** ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is perfectly reflected in her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle and her honourable discharge of duty to her young king. Her story is a testament to the idea that true nobility is demonstrated through courageous action and unwavering integrity.
Similarly, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, **Vincere Est Vivere** ('To Conquer is to Live'), captures the existential imperative of the Battle of Lincoln Fair. For William Marshal and Nichola de la Haye, victory was not a matter of ambition but of survival—for the kingdom, for the legitimate monarchy, and for the rule of law. Their triumph ensured that the England they knew would live on.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this communication recounts a historical event, its purpose aligns with the House's modern philanthropic and educational mission. The preservation and dissemination of history is itself an act of public service. By sharing these foundational stories, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the principles of leadership, duty, and resilience that have shaped Western civilisation.
This commitment to education is formalised through institutions such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to the study of etiquette and protocol. The narrative of Nichola de la Haye and William Marshal serves as a powerful case study in character and leadership, providing historical depth to the contemporary values the House seeks to promote. The ultimate beneficiary is a public enriched by a more profound understanding of its own past.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "The story of Nichola de la Haye is a profound reminder of the strength and responsibility embedded within this barony. As a woman entrusted with immense authority in a tumultuous era, her fortitude is a legacy I feel deeply. It is a privilege to be a successor to a title she held with such honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "William Marshal is rightly remembered as one of history's great leaders. His genius lay not only in his martial skill, but in his judgement of character. His trust in Lady Nichola tells us everything about her capabilities. It is a powerful lesson in how true partnership and mutual respect are the foundations of any great victory."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to its role as a custodian of history. The House will continue to research and share significant episodes from the barony's 957-year history, bridging the medieval legacy of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt with the House’s contemporary European responsibilities.
Further historical vignettes are planned for publication, intended to provide educational context and cultural enrichment. These narratives will form part of the teaching curriculum at The Brattleby Club and serve as inspiration for the House’s ongoing philanthropic work, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to inform and guide the present.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house with ancient roots. Its contemporary mission is focused on cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. The House's activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), and include patronage of charitable causes such as Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable children. Through educational initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to bridge its historic English heritage with a dynamic and forward-looking European perspective, promoting the enduring values of civility, service, and protocol in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship title, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its creation is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Over nearly a millennium, the barony has been held by some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; 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 modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was one of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire granted to Colswein of Lincoln following the Norman Conquest, as documented in the Domesday Book (1086). - Past holders of the barony include prominent historical figures such as Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat of the Barony of Brattleby is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com