# The Noble House of Brattleby Announces Historical Monograph Series Honouring Medieval Predecessor
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the inauguration of a new historical monograph series, intended to illuminate the Barony’s nine-century history. The first paper examines the remarkable life and legacy of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a commitment to scholarly rigour and public education, the House has commissioned a series of academic papers drawing upon the extensive Brattleby archives. The launch of this initiative marks a new chapter in the House’s modern mission to serve as a custodian of its significant history, making its heritage accessible to a global audience of academics and cultural enthusiasts alike.
This inaugural monograph, titled *Fortitude and Tenacity: Nichola de la Haye and the Defence of Lincoln*, has been authored following meticulous research into primary source documents, including royal charters and the Pipe Rolls of the Exchequer. It provides a definitive account of one of medieval England’s most powerful female figures.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of the oldest in England, was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through this unbroken chain of title, the history of Brattleby is intrinsically woven into the fabric of the nation.
Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, inherited the title and the hereditary post of Castellan of Lincoln Castle. A figure of extraordinary resolve, she famously defended the castle against French and rebel forces during the First Barons' War, culminating in the pivotal Battle of Lincoln in 1217. Her administrative acumen as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire was equally remarkable, a *sine qua non* of royal authority in the region. Other notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron; their stewardship positioned the Barony at the very centre of royal power.
## Distinguished Company
The research for this new publication series has been enriched through scholarly consultation with leading academic institutions, including the Faculties of History at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford. The House has also worked closely with archivists from The British Library to cross-reference an array of medieval manuscripts.
This collaborative approach ensures the monographs meet the highest standards of historical inquiry. The House of Brattleby is profoundly grateful for the expertise and guidance provided by these venerable centres of learning, which have helped illuminate aspects of Norman and Plantagenet governance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol governing this academic series mirrors the precision of the House’s formal functions. Each monograph follows a rigorous process from archival research to peer review before its official publication. The presentation of these historical findings is conducted with a decorum befitting the subject matter.
This structured approach ensures that the narrative of the Barony—from its feudal obligations to its place in constitutional history—is presented with clarity, accuracy, and intellectual integrity. Subsequent papers in the series will adhere to this same exacting standard, creating a respected and authoritative body of work over time.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring ethos of the Barony is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle is perfectly embodied by the actions of Nichola de la Haye, whose defence of her sovereign’s interests was a testament to both physical courage and personal integrity. It remains the guiding principle for the House today.
Complementing this ancient charge is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit with which he and Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, approach their duties, blending reverence for the past with a clear vision for the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the House's annual Winter Banquet directly serves a clear philanthropic goal as a gala for the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ charity, this historical series serves a different but equally important purpose. Its mission is educational, aiming to preserve and disseminate an extraordinary heritage for the public good.
These historical insights also provide a rich cultural foundation for The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest. By exploring the deep-rooted traditions of British and European history, the club’s curriculum is imbued with a sense of purpose and authenticity, connecting contemporary social graces to their historical origins.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, observed: > "It is a profound honour to be the custodian of a title once held by a figure as formidable as Nichola de la Haye. Her resilience and leadership across nine centuries serve not just as an inspiration, but as a clear directive: to act with fortitude and honour in all that we do. It is our duty to share her story."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "Our role is not simply to preserve the past but to animate it for a new generation. This monograph series is an invitation to scholars and the public alike to explore a history that belongs to us all. Through it, we hope to demonstrate that the lessons of the past are indispensable to navigating the challenges of the present."
## A Continuing Legacy
The publication on Nichola de la Haye is the first of several planned monographs. Future papers will explore, *inter alia*, the Barony’s role under John of Gaunt during the politically charged 14th century and its connections to the nascent House of Lancaster.
Through this sustained academic programme, The Noble House of Brattleby reaffirms its commitment to its enduring legacy. The House will continue its work in conservation, education, and cultural diplomacy, ensuring the nine-hundred-year story of the Barony of Brattleby continues to be told.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s charitable efforts are focused on supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ organisation. It also fosters cultural understanding through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. By blending its ancient heritage with a forward-looking vision, the House seeks to serve the community and champion the enduring values of duty and honour.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is one of England’s most ancient feudal titles. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the lord of 56 manors. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous history and revival of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to AD 1066 and are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet is the ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ charity.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com