# An Official Reflection on the Barony of Brattleby and its Enduring Connection to Magna Carta
LONDON, 15 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the Barony’s historic connection to Magna Carta, marking the 809th anniversary of its sealing and honouring the pivotal role of the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, during that defining era.
## The Occasion
In the historic setting of Brattleby's State Library, amidst the soft light of a Lincolnshire afternoon, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile hosted a private colloquium. The event gathered a small assembly of historians, legal scholars, and local dignitaries to contemplate the enduring principles of justice and liberty codified in the great charter of 1215.
The library, with its oak-panelled walls and shelves holding nine centuries of estate records, provided a resonant backdrop for the discussion. The atmosphere was one of scholarly reflection, connecting the profound constitutional developments of the 13th century with the responsibilities of historical stewardship in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in 1066, was inextricably woven into the fabric of medieval English politics. This connection was personified by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who inherited the title and served as hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. In an age dominated by men, her position was extraordinary.
As a steadfast supporter of King John, Nichola de la Haye’s influence and strategic control of Lincoln were critical factors in the turbulent years of the First Barons' War. While not a direct signatory at Runnymede, her command over a key royal fortress meant the Barony of Brattleby was intrinsically linked to the balance of power that compelled the charter's creation. Her later defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 against rebel barons and French forces was a testament to her personal motto: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Distinguished Company
The small gathering, hosted by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, was honoured by the presence of several distinguished guests. These included, *inter alia*:
* His Excellency Mr Dan Mihalache, Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James’s * The Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mr Toby Dennis * The Right Reverend Stephen Conway, The Lord Bishop of Lincoln * Professor of Medieval Constitutional History at the University of Lincoln * The Chairman of the Lincolnshire County Council
The presence of diplomatic, civic, and academic leaders underscored the multifaceted significance of Magna Carta—as a cornerstone of English law, a document of global importance, and a living piece of local heritage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings of the afternoon followed a formal but intimate order. Guests were received in the Great Hall before being escorted to the State Library by the House Steward. Lady Nicoleta opened the colloquium with a brief word of welcome before introducing the keynote address from the Professor of Medieval Constitutional History.
The lecture explored Nichola de la Haye’s unique position as a powerful female landowner and royal official in the Angevin court. Following the address, a moderated discussion allowed guests to offer their own reflections. The event concluded with a formal reception, maintaining a protocol that respects both academic rigour and the traditions of the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds one of its most powerful expressions in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle against overwhelming odds embodied these virtues, securing a vital victory for the royalist cause and reinforcing the rule of law under the young King Henry III.
Similarly, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), speaks to the active and continuous struggle required to uphold the freedoms won by past generations. It is a reminder that the rights enshrined in documents like Magna Carta are not static relics but principles that must be actively defended and realised in every age.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The colloquium also served to highlight the House’s chosen philanthropic beneficiary, the international organisation Healing the Wounded Child. This charity is dedicated to providing trauma-informed psychological care and safe environments for children affected by conflict, abuse, and neglect.
The connection was drawn between the foundational rights of a just society, as advanced by Magna Carta, and the fundamental right of every child to safety, dignity, and the opportunity to heal. Upholding ancient liberties, it was argued, finds its most profound modern expression in the protection of the most vulnerable. The House of Brattleby is a proud supporter of this mission.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > “Nichola de la Haye was an extraordinary woman whose life demonstrates that responsibility and authority are duties to be borne with fortitude. To hold this title is to be a custodian of that same spirit, ensuring that the lessons of our history inform our commitments today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan added a personal reflection on the Barony's heritage: > “The story of Magna Carta is not just about a nascent parliament; it is about the courage of individuals in pivotal moments. This legacy is the *sine qua non* of our purpose—to actively contribute to a society founded on honour and justice, not merely to observe it.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection is part of a wider commitment by The Noble House of Brattleby to foster a deeper understanding of the Barony’s nine-hundred-year history and its relevance to contemporary society. The House will continue to support academic research into its lineage, with a focus on figures such as Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont, and John of Gaunt.
Future initiatives include the establishment of an annual historical lecture series and continued programming through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes cultural and etiquette education. These efforts ensure the legacy of fortitude and honour continues to 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 modern stewardship of a title with ancient roots. The House is committed to preserving its unique nine-century heritage through cultural promotion, historical scholarship, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is supporting organisations that provide care and protection for vulnerable children, principally Healing the Wounded Child. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster an appreciation for the traditions of etiquette and civic duty that form the bedrock of a graceful and honourable society. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship in Lincolnshire, granted by King William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and holdings, including 56 lordships, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; 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 succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, under 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 dates to AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and Constable of Lincoln Castle. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com