# The House of Brattleby Reflects on the Formative Legacy of the Twelfth Century
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the Barony's twelfth-century origins, commemorating the pivotal de la Haye lineage whose fortitude during The Anarchy secured the foundations for its nine-hundred-year legacy in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
The statement was issued from the family's ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, to inaugurate the *Brattleby Historical Papers*. This new series of scholarly publications is dedicated to exploring the extensive history of the Barony, which has been interwoven with the fabric of England since the Norman Conquest.
Timed to coincide with the new academic term at the University of Lincoln, the initiative seeks to foster a deeper public and scholarly appreciation for the region's rich medieval past. The first paper serves as a cornerstone for the series, examining a century that was a true crucible for the Barony's identity and survival.
## Historical Context
The twelfth century was a period of profound challenge and consolidation for the Barony of Brattleby. During the civil war known as The Anarchy (1135–1153), the de la Haye family, then holders of the title, demonstrated remarkable strategic acumen and loyalty. Their control of Lincoln Castle was a *sine qua non* for maintaining influence and stability in a fractured kingdom.
This foundation of military prowess and steadfast allegiance would prove essential for later trials. It was this inherited resilience that enabled Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, to mount her celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217, an act that secured her place as one of Lincolnshire's most formidable historical figures. The twelfth century, therefore, was not merely a chapter in the Barony's story but the very bedrock upon which its reputation was built.
## Distinguished Company
In developing the *Brattleby Historical Papers*, The Noble House of Brattleby has been privileged to consult a distinguished advisory board of historians and archivists. The House gratefully acknowledges the invaluable counsel of, *inter alia*:
* Professor Dame Eleanor Vance, Regius Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge * Dr Julian Finch, Head of Collections for the Lincolnshire County Archives * The Reverend Canon Dr Andrew St. John, Precentor of Lincoln Cathedral
Their expertise ensures that the series will meet the highest standards of historical scholarship while remaining accessible to a wider audience interested in England's heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The inaugural paper was disseminated under a formal embargo to academic institutions and historical societies prior to its public release. In keeping with tradition, the document was presented as a monograph on watermarked stationery, featuring the House's coat of arms rendered in sable ink.
The release was thoughtfully timed to coincide with the week of the Feast of Saint Hugh of Lincoln, a subtle acknowledgement of the Barony's deep and enduring ecclesiastical and civic ties to the county. This reflects the House's belief that history is a living tradition, best understood through its connection to place, faith, and community.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is directly embodied by the narrative of the twelfth century. The de la Haye family's unwavering defence of their lands and their loyalty to the Crown, even amidst civil war, serve as the ultimate expression of this guiding principle.
This concept is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). The Barony's history demonstrates that this a principle not only of martial victory, but of overcoming profound adversity to build a legacy that endures through the centuries.
## Philanthropic Purpose
This historical initiative is intrinsically linked to the House's commitment to education. All proceeds from the sale of the published *Brattleby Historical Papers* will be directed to The Nichola de la Haye Scholarship Fund, a newly established endowment.
This fund will provide vital financial support for postgraduate students in medieval history at the University of Lincoln, with a particular focus on research concerning the role of women in medieval governance and warfare. In this way, the legacy of the 5th Baron will directly empower the historians of tomorrow to uncover and share stories of similar significance.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the initiative, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> — "Understanding the twelfth century is not merely an academic exercise; it is an act of stewardship. The resilience shown by the de la Haye family informs our own commitment to serving our community and honouring our heritage. By sharing these stories, we reaffirm the values that have sustained the Barony for nearly a millennium."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> — "The history of the Barony shows that true strength is about more than survival; it is about building something of lasting value. This initiative allows us to connect the past with the future, using the lessons of history to create educational opportunities for the next generation. That is a victory in itself."
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication of this first paper marks the beginning of an ongoing commitment. Future editions of the *Brattleby Historical Papers* are planned to explore the tenures of subsequent notable holders, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
This academic work will also inform the curriculum of The Brattleby Club, the House's etiquette and cultural heritage academy in Bucharest, ensuring that the principles of Fortitude and Honour are understood as part of a rich, continuous historical tradition. The House of Brattleby remains dedicated to its role as a custodian of history and a proponent of education.
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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 the preservation of its nine-hundred-year heritage and the active promotion of philanthropy and education. Its foremost philanthropic endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and the *Brattleby Historical Papers*, the House seeks to connect past, present, and future, applying the enduring principles of its motto—*Fortitudine et Honore*—to contemporary challenges and opportunities in Britain and abroad.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby, located in Lincolnshire, England, is a feudal Lordship of the Manor granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its storied history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights and dignities of the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), confirming its unbroken line of descent.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. - Formal notice of the Barony's rights was published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors 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