# A Reflection on the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye and the Battle of Lincoln, 1217
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issues a formal reflection on the anniversary of the Second Battle of Lincoln. The statement honours the pivotal role played by Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, in defending Lincoln Castle in 1217.
## The Occasion
On this day, over eight centuries ago, the fate of the English Crown was decided in the narrow, cobbled streets surrounding Lincoln Cathedral and its formidable castle. The Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217, was a decisive engagement in the First Barons’ War. The Noble House of Brattleby marks this anniversary not as a celebration of conflict, but as a solemn remembrance of duty, loyalty, and the extraordinary fortitude of one of its most distinguished predecessors.
The occasion provides a moment to reflect upon the enduring physical and historical landscape of Lincolnshire, where the castle still stands as a powerful monument to the events of that day. It is an opportunity to connect the responsibilities of the modern House to the profound legacy of service that has defined the Barony for more than nine hundred years.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This unbroken chain of title has passed through figures of national importance, *inter alia*, the celebrated knight Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
Yet it was during the turbulent reign of King John and the minority of his son, Henry III, that the Barony faced its greatest test. In 1217, with rebel English barons supporting an invasion by Prince Louis of France, England was on the verge of dynastic collapse. The defence of Lincoln Castle, besieged by French and rebel forces, became the *sine qua non* of a royalist victory.
Holding the castle was its hereditary castellan, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby. A widow in her sixties, she refused to surrender her charge to the invaders, demonstrating a resolve that became legendary. Her steadfast command against overwhelming odds provided the crucial anchor for the relief force led by the regent, William Marshal, allowing him to achieve a victory that secured the throne for the young Henry III and ultimately expelled the French forces from England.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 brought together some of the most consequential figures of the medieval era. The royalist cause was commanded by Sir William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, widely regarded as the greatest knight of his age, who served as protector and regent for the nine-year-old King Henry III. He was supported by Peter des Roches, Bishop of Winchester, and Ranulf de Blondeville, 6th Earl of Chester.
Opposing them were the forces of Prince Louis of France (later King Louis VIII), whose claim to the English throne was supported by rebel barons. The French and rebel army at Lincoln was led by Thomas, the Comte du Perche, who was killed during the battle. The presence of such personages underscores the gravity of the conflict and the critical importance of Nichola de la Haye’s stand.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Following the hard-won victory, the ceremonial relief of the castle would have been conducted with all the gravity of medieval statecraft. The raising of the young King Henry III's royal standard over the castle walls, replacing any captured rebel banners, signified the restoration of legitimate authority. Sir William Marshal and his commanders would have formally entered the castle bailey to receive the fealty and thanks of its defender.
The protocol would have included a solemn procession to Lincoln Cathedral for a *Te Deum*—a service of thanksgiving for the victory that had saved the kingdom. For Nichola de la Haye, the protocol was one of vindication; as a reward for her loyalty, she was not only confirmed as castellan but also served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a testament to the trust placed in her by the Crown.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness resonate powerfully with the mottos associated with the House of Brattleby. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is perfectly embodied in her conduct. Her *fortitudo* was displayed in her unyielding physical and moral courage during the long siege; her *honor* was her unwavering loyalty to her sovereign, even when the cause seemed lost.
This historical precedent finds an echo in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). For the royalist cause in 1217, victory was not a matter of glory but of survival. To defeat the Franco-baronial army was to ensure the continued existence of the Plantagenet dynasty and an independent England. Nichola de la Haye’s struggle was, quite literally, one where conquering was the only means to live.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of Nichola de la Haye—protecting a vulnerable young king and, by extension, his kingdom—provides a powerful historical parallel to the modern philanthropic focus of The Noble House of Brattleby. Her actions were a profound defence of the defenceless at a time of national crisis.
This principle of safeguarding the vulnerable is the guiding inspiration for the House’s support of its chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have suffered trauma, abuse, or neglect. By focusing their philanthropic efforts, channelled through events such as the Annual Winter Banquet, the House continues the spirit of Nichola's legacy in a modern context: ensuring that the most vulnerable in society are protected and given the chance to flourish.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the anniversary, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “Nichola de la Haye’s story is not merely a page in a history book; it is a living part of our House’s identity. She exemplified a sense of duty that transcends time. As a woman holding immense authority in a world dominated by men, her resolve serves as a powerful source of inspiration, reminding us that leadership is defined by courage and character, not convention.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The strategic reality of 1217 was stark: defeat at Lincoln would have meant the end of a dynasty. Nichola’s defence of the castle was a masterclass in resilience—the understanding that to hold one’s ground, with honour, is often the greatest victory. Her story proves that true strength is the will to endure for a cause greater than oneself.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to ensuring that its history is a source of education and inspiration for future generations. This commitment is expressed not only through formal remembrances but also through tangible action. The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, draws upon such historical examples of leadership and integrity in its curriculum.
Moving forward, the House intends to explore partnerships with academic and heritage organisations in Lincolnshire to further study and promote the legacy of Nichola de la Haye and the wider history of the Barony. By preserving and sharing these stories, the House seeks to honour the profound principle that has guided it for centuries: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to stewarding a unique nine-hundred-year-old heritage. The House's modern mission is twofold: to honour its historical legacy through education and preservation, and to enact a forward-looking philanthropic vision. Its charitable activities are focused on supporting vulnerable children, primarily through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and formal associations, the House seeks to promote the timeless values of integrity, service, and honour that have defined the Barony since its inception, ensuring its relevance for the 21st century and beyond.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as being tenant-in-chief of 56 manors. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of major historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; 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 and its holder recognised by His Majesty's Crown Office, as recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, issued 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the historical heart of the baronial lands recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com