# A Reflection on the Hereditary Office of Sheriff and the Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 16 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a reflection on the historic role of High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a position once held by the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, which illustrates the Barony’s deep-rooted and continuing commitment to regional governance.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has taken a moment for historical reflection, drawing upon the nine-century lineage of the Barony. As the seasons turn across the ancient landscape of the county, the enduring institutions that have shaped its character provide a valuable lens through which to view the present. This statement serves to illuminate a period of profound importance in the history of both the Barony and the nation, connecting the past to the duties of the present day.
The focus of this reflection is the formidable figure of Nichola de la Haye, holder of the Barony in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Her tenure as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire provides a powerful example of the administrative and military responsibilities once vested in the Barony, duties which form the bedrock of its long history of service.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, with Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This established from the outset the Barony’s significance within the county’s power structure. This influence reached a remarkable apex under Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who inherited the title and the constableship of Lincoln Castle.
During a period of profound national upheaval—the First Barons' War (1215-1217)—Nichola de la Haye twice defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces. In recognition of her loyalty and formidable capabilities, she was appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in 1216. In an age when such offices were exclusively the domain of men, her appointment was a testament to her exceptional character and the trust placed in her by the Crown. Her story is a powerful chapter in the history of female leadership and authority in medieval England.
## Distinguished Company
The legacy of Nichola de la Haye forms part of a chain of distinguished holders of the Barony who have shaped English history. The title has, *inter alia*, been held by some of the most powerful figures of the medieval period, connecting the Barony directly to the Royal Family. These predecessors stand as distinguished company in the annals of the House.
Following the line of de la Haye, the Barony was held by Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, who was later created the 1st Duke of Lancaster and was a renowned soldier and diplomat. It subsequently passed to his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster, whose son ascended the throne as King Henry IV. This direct line to the heart of royal and political power underscores the Barony’s historical importance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the 13th century, the office of High Sheriff was far from ceremonial; it was the *sine qua non* of royal authority in the shires. Appointed directly by the monarch, the Sheriff was the Crown's chief executive officer in the county. The role carried immense power and a strict protocol of duties.
The High Sheriff was responsible for the collection of taxes and royal revenues, the enforcement of royal writs, and the administration of justice at the county court. Critically, the Sheriff also held military command of the *posse comitatus*—literally, ‘the power of the county’—a body of armed men who could be summoned to pursue criminals or defend the shire. For Nichola de la Haye, this authority was not abstract; it was wielded in the practical defence of Lincoln and the King’s peace.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her resolute command of Lincoln Castle during two sieges demonstrated immense fortitude, while her unwavering loyalty to the Crown, even during civil war, was the very definition of honour. The motto serves as a perpetual reminder of the principles that have guided the Barony through centuries of service.
This ancient tenet is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This reflects the dynamic, forward-looking spirit that the current House brings to its duties, creating a synthesis of ancient honour and modern purpose.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> The tenure of Nichola de la Haye as High Sheriff is not merely a footnote in our family's history; it is a profound testament to the principle of duty that has guided this Barony for nearly a millennium. Her fortitude reminds us that stewardship is an active responsibility, not a passive inheritance. It is a legacy we strive to honour in our own service to the community today.
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical responsibility for governance and public service, so vividly demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye, continues to inform the mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. While the nature of the duties has evolved, the core commitment to social contribution remains unchanged.
This commitment is expressed today through the House’s philanthropic and cultural initiatives. These include the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that raises vital funds for beneficiary charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to promoting etiquette and cultural diplomacy. Through these modern avenues, the House upholds its pledge of *Fortitudine et Honore*, ensuring its ancient legacy continues to serve the common good.
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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, philanthropic endeavour, and the promotion of traditional civic virtues. It actively supports charitable organisations, with a particular focus on child welfare and mental health through its patronage of charities like Healing the Wounded Child. Through international initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House bridges its nine-century English heritage with a contemporary, global outlook, championing etiquette and diplomacy as tools for positive social engagement in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, 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. The title has passed through several notable families and historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was formally called out in favour of its current holder and notice of the fact was published in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War and was appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in 1216. - Notable holders include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, Duke of Lancaster, and a prominent ancestor of the modern Royal Family.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com