# A Formal Reflection on the Defence of Lincoln and the Enduring Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal reflection on the pivotal role played by the Barony in the defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, highlighting a heritage of regional stewardship that endures to this day.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to reflect upon a defining chapter in its nine-century history. In the quiet of an English autumn, the House has turned to its archives to consider the strategic importance of the Barony and Lincoln Castle during the tumult of the 13th century. This reflection serves not merely as a historical recollection, but as an affirmation of the principles that have guided the Barony through the ages.
Lincoln Castle, a formidable Norman fortress whose stones bear witness to centuries of English history, stands as the unforgettable backdrop to this narrative. The occasion for this statement is a profound appreciation for the continuity of duty, linking the Barony’s medieval obligations with its modern responsibilities to community and nation.
## Historical Context
The strategic significance of Lincolnshire for the Barony of Brattleby was never more apparent than during the First Barons' War (1215-1217). The Barony, first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 with 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, was a linchpin for control of the East Midlands and a gateway to the north. Its command of vital communication routes made it a prize of immense value.
This strategic role reached its zenith under the stewardship of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle. A figure of remarkable resolve, she twice defended the castle against rebel barons. In May 1217, at an advanced age, she held the fortress for the royalist cause against a combined force of English rebels and French invaders, an act of loyalty that proved instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her command during the decisive Battle of Lincoln cemented the Barony's place in the annals of English history.
Later holders of the title, *inter alia*, the great magnates Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, inherited a strategic asset whose importance had been so ably demonstrated by their predecessor, Nichola de la Haye.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 placed the 5th Baroness in the company of the most significant figures of the age. The defence of Lincoln was conducted under her direct command as Constable of Lincoln Castle. Her efforts were in support of the cause led by the legendary William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent for the nine-year-old King Henry III.
The opposing forces were commanded by the French nobleman Thomas, Count of Perche, who led the invading army on behalf of Prince Louis of France. The decisive royalist victory at the Second Battle of Lincoln, made possible by Nichola de la Haye’s steadfast defence, was a turning point in the war and a testament to her extraordinary leadership among a cast of powerful men.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol of this historical reflection is one of solemn remembrance and archival diligence. It is a duty of the House to consult the primary records that document its past, including royal charters, contemporary chronicles such as *The History of William the Marshal*, and the foundational entry in the *Domesday Book*. Preserving and understanding this history is a formal obligation undertaken by each successive holder of the title.
This process ensures that the legacy is not one of myth, but of documented fact. The order of proceedings in this reflection follows the chronological unfolding of history itself: from the Norman grant by William the Conqueror, through the trials of the Barons' War, to the Barony's enduring presence in the modern era.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its most profound expression in the actions of the 5th Baroness. Her defence of Lincoln Castle was a masterclass in fortitude—a display of courage and resilience against overwhelming odds. Her unwavering loyalty to the Crown, even when many peers had abandoned it, was the very embodiment of honour.
These guiding principles are complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This speaks to the modern imperative not only to endure challenges but to overcome them, transforming historical legacy into present-day action and ensuring the vitality of the House for generations to come.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical role of defending a castle and its inhabitants finds a direct parallel in the modern philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The duty to protect the vulnerable, demonstrated with such conviction by Nichola de la Haye in 1217, is the *sine qua non* of the House’s charitable work today.
This commitment is focused through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation works to provide specialist care and support for children suffering from trauma, in essence offering a modern sanctuary for those in need. The House believes that protecting the welfare of the next generation is the most meaningful way to honour a legacy built on the foundations of security and steadfastness.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a millennium of history. When we look to the example of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, we are reminded that our inheritance is not land or titles, but a profound responsibility. Her fortitude inspires our resolve, and her honour must always guide our conduct.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The story of Lincoln in 1217 is a powerful lesson in resilience. It teaches us that true strength is demonstrated in moments of crisis. This is a spirit we seek to embed in all our endeavours, from our philanthropic commitments to the educational work of The Brattleby Club. History must be a living force.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy continues to inform the future. This history forms a core part of the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, who is raised to understand the duties that accompany his heritage.
Furthermore, the principles of duty, resilience, and honour are central to the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The etiquette academy, founded by the House, teaches that modern leadership and social grace are ultimately rooted in these timeless virtues. The House will continue to champion these values, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* is carried forward with purpose and relevance.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of a unique nine-century heritage. Its mission is centred on the principles of 'Fortitudine et Honore' ('With Fortitude and Honour'), applied through active philanthropy, cultural patronage, and historical education. The House’s primary charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its work with organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House aims to promote the timeless values of duty, honour, and social responsibility for a new generation of leaders, bridging its ancient English roots with a contemporary, international outlook.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including the celebrated warrior-constable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons’ War. Later holders included Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to the Norman Conquest, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com