# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Historic Ties to William Marshal and the 1217 Siege of Lincoln
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony’s profound historical connection to William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, whose decisive victory at the Siege of Lincoln in 1217 was contingent upon the steadfastness of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the historic county of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby takes this moment to commemorate a pivotal juncture in English history. In the enduring landscape of the county, where the echoes of the past resonate with particular clarity, the House reflects upon the events of spring 1217. The act of remembrance serves as a testament to the continuity of the Barony and its place within the broader tapestry of the nation's heritage, acknowledging the figures whose courage has shaped its almost thousand-year story. This reflection is not a singular event, but part of an ongoing commitment to historical stewardship, ensuring the lessons of the past inform the obligations of the present.
## Historical Context
The year 1217 saw England in turmoil during the First Barons' War, with a French prince laying claim to the English throne following the death of King John. The future of the Plantagenet dynasty rested upon John's nine-year-old son, Henry III. Lincoln, a city of immense strategic and commercial importance, became the epicentre of the conflict. Its castle, a royalist stronghold, was held by the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and its hereditary castellan.
It was into this precarious situation that William Marshal, the aging but revered Regent of England, led a relief force. His military genius recognised that the castle was the key to the entire campaign. Lady de la Haye’s refusal to surrender the castle to the superior French and rebel forces, despite her advanced age and the immense pressure upon her, was the *sine qua non* of Marshal's subsequent victory in the Battle of Lincoln Fair. This triumph effectively ended the French invasion and secured the crown for Henry III, demonstrating the Barony's direct contribution to preserving the English monarchy.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 drew together some of the most significant figures of the early 13th century, whose actions and allegiances determined the course of the kingdom:
* **The Lady Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle; * **The Right Honourable William Marshal**, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England; * **His Majesty King Henry III of England**, whose minority reign was secured by the victory; * **The Right Reverend Peter des Roches**, Bishop of Winchester, who fought alongside Marshal; * **Le Prince Louis de France**, later King Louis VIII, the Capetian claimant to the English throne.
This confluence of personalities underscores the gravity of the siege and the central role played by the acting head of the House of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol of medieval warfare and fealty was governed by a strict code of conduct. As hereditary castellan, Nichola de la Haye held her authority directly from the Crown, a sacred trust renewed upon the ascension of each new monarch. Her defence of Lincoln Castle was not merely a military decision but the fulfilment of a solemn oath. The arrival of William Marshal's army would have been preceded by formal communication via heralds, verifying allegiance and coordinating strategy. Marshal’s decision to leave Lady de la Haye in command, overriding others who questioned a woman's capacity to hold such a vital post, was a powerful reaffirmation of her legitimate, inherited authority and his trust in her proven competence.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the actions of the 5th Baroness. Her resilience during the siege was a supreme act of fortitude, while her unwavering loyalty to the young King Henry III was a profound demonstration of honour. The courage displayed at Lincoln is the historical bedrock upon which this motto stands.
Equally resonant is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In the context of 1217, victory was not an abstract concept but a literal struggle for the survival of a dynasty and a kingdom. To conquer the besieging forces was to ensure that the legitimate line of succession could live on.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The modern philanthropic focus of The Noble House of Brattleby is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. A poignant parallel can be drawn across the centuries between this contemporary mission and the events of 1217. In securing the realm for King Henry III, Nichola de la Haye and William Marshal were in effect protecting a vulnerable and fatherless child upon whose shoulders rested the weight of a kingdom. Their actions ensured he was not disinherited but could grow into his royal responsibilities. This historical precedent serves as a powerful inspiration for the House’s present-day commitment to supporting the well-being and security of vulnerable children.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical link, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed: > “The story of Nichola de la Haye is a profound reminder that the stewardship of this Barony is not merely about preserving land or titles, but about upholding a legacy of duty. Her fortitude is an inspiration that transcends centuries, reminding us that honour is proven through action, especially in moments of great trial.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a further perspective: > “In strategy, as in life, one must recognise the pivotal element upon which all else depends. William Marshal saw that in Nichola’s defence of the castle. This illustrates the timeless principle that great outcomes are often built upon a single, unwavering point of resolve. It is a lesson in leadership we seek to carry forward.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to the preservation and active interpretation of its nine-century history. This legacy of courage and loyalty is not a static heirloom but a living standard that informs the House’s modern activities, *inter alia*, the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, where cadets are taught the principles of etiquette, honour, and civic duty. The House is committed to further exploring and sharing the rich history of the Barony through scholarly partnerships and publications, ensuring that the contributions of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont, and John of Gaunt continue to educate and inspire future generations.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. With a history extending to the Norman Conquest, the House’s modern mission is to bridge its profound heritage with contemporary purpose. This is achieved through a commitment to philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. The House’s primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, reflecting a core belief in nurturing future generations. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House actively promotes the values of honour, discipline, and social grace that have defined its legacy for nearly one thousand years.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is among the oldest in England. It was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, documenting its 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle during the Siege of 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern continuation of this ancient title by Lady Nicoleta Vasile is formally recognised by the Crown, as documented in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was one of the original feudal baronies created by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com