# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces Research Initiative into the Barony's Magna Carta Heritage
LONDON, 21 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced a new historical research initiative to examine the Barony's connection to the Magna Carta and the First Barons' War, illuminating a pivotal chapter in the constitutional history of England and the County of Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the Library at the family's Lincolnshire seat. Against a backdrop of autumnal light filtering through seventeenth-century mullioned windows, Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta detailed the scholarly partnership to a select assembly of academics and representatives from regional heritage organisations.
The setting was one of quiet gravitas, reflecting the House's long-standing role as custodians of significant historical records. The air of scholarly purpose was palpable as the new initiative was outlined, bridging the gap between an ancient past and modern academic inquiry. This undertaking reinforces the Barony’s deep connection to Lincolnshire, a county central to the political crises of the thirteenth century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, holds a unique position in the annals of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors. Yet it was during the reign of King John that the Barony became inextricably linked to the nation’s destiny.
This new research will focus significantly on the life of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable figure who served as Constable of Lincoln Castle. In 1217, during the First Barons’ War that erupted following the sealing of Magna Carta, Nichola defended the castle with heroic tenacity against invading French and rebel forces. Her steadfast loyalty to the Crown was a *sine qua non* for securing the throne for the young King Henry III and reaffirming the Charter, cementing her place as one of medieval England’s most remarkable women.
## Distinguished Company
The announcement was made in the presence of a small, distinguished gathering that underscored the collaborative nature of the project. In attendance were key partners from The University of Lincoln's College of Arts, including the Head of the School of History and Heritage, who will lead the academic research team.
Also present were members of the Lincoln Record Society and senior curators from The Collection Museum, Lincoln. The assembly represented a confluence of private custodianship and public scholarship, ensuring the fruits of this research will benefit both the academic community and the wider public.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the House of Brattleby’s rigorous approach to archival stewardship, a formal protocol has been established for the initiative. The historical documents, *inter alia*, charters, estate records, and personal correspondence, will be made available to the research team within the controlled environment of the House’s muniment room.
Access will be granted under strict conservation guidelines, with all handling of manuscripts supervised by the House Archivist. All photographic reproductions of the materials will likewise follow established curatorial standards, a process designed to preserve the delicate physical state of documents that have survived for more than eight centuries. This methodical approach honours the House's duty to safeguard its inheritance for future generations.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the historical legacy being examined. The fortitude of Nichola de la Haye in defending her castle and the honour with which she discharged her duties to the Crown are the very principles this initiative seeks to celebrate.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In this context, it speaks to the idea that to truly live is to overcome challenges — not through force of arms, but through the pursuit of knowledge, the preservation of culture, and the active interpretation of history.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While academic in nature, this initiative carries a distinct philanthropic goal. The findings will be used to develop new educational materials for schools across Lincolnshire and beyond. This programme will be aligned with the work of the House’s principal charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to fostering resilience and strength in young people facing adversity.
By telling the story of Nichola de la Haye, a historical figure who demonstrated immense courage in a time of national crisis, the House aims to provide an inspiring narrative for the charity’s beneficiaries. A portion of the proceeds from any future publications resulting from the research will be designated for the charity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “It is a profound privilege to be the custodian of this history. Nichola de la Haye's fortitude serves as a timeless example of leadership, and through this research, we hope to illuminate not only our family's past but a pivotal chapter in the story of our nation.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan of Brattleby added a forward-looking perspective: > “History is not static; it is a living dialogue. By applying modern scholarship to these ancient records, we are not merely looking back. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to overcoming challenges, and today, that challenge is to make our shared heritage resonate and inspire a new generation.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This research project represents a significant new chapter in the House of Brattleby’s commitment to education and historical preservation. It complements the work of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural understanding and social refinement.
Preliminary findings from the Magna Carta research initiative are expected to be shared at a symposium in late 2025. The project reaffirms the House’s enduring pledge, maintained for nearly a millennium, to serve as a bridge between England's storied past and its dynamic future, ensuring that the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues to guide its endeavours.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 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 promotion of education and cultural diplomacy. Its modern mission is guided by the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic activities are centred on supporting disadvantaged children through its patronage of the Healing the Wounded Child foundation. Through cultural ventures such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster an appreciation for history, etiquette, and international dialogue in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and initial holder are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details Colswein’s possession of fifty-six lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous history and legal standing of the Barony were formally noted by the Crown through a notice published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The legal recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which identifies Colswein of Lincoln as the first holder. - The House of Brattleby operates The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and cultural academy, in Bucharest, Romania.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com