# The Enduring Legacy of the Battle of Lincoln and the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the historical significance of the Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on this day in 1217, where their ancestor, the 5th Baroness Nichola de la Haye, heroically defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
## The Occasion
In the late spring of 1217, the fate of England hung precariously in the balance during the First Barons' War. The city of Lincoln, with its strategically vital castle, became the crucible in which the authority of the young King Henry III was tested. Lincoln Castle, a bastion of Royalist power in a largely hostile region, was besieged by a superior force of rebel English barons and their French allies.
The atmosphere within the castle walls was one of resolute defiance against overwhelming odds. The defence, led by the steadfast Castellan and *suo jure* 5th Baroness of Brattleby, Nichola de la Haye, was the *sine qua non* of the Royalist strategy. The subsequent battle in the streets of Lincoln was a decisive engagement that shattered the rebels' ambitions and secured the Plantagenet succession.
## Historical Context
The actions of Baroness Nichola stand as a profound expression of a lineage dedicated to the sovereign for over a century prior. The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, the Barony was recorded as comprising some 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing it as a significant pillar of the Norman settlement.
This heritage of service to the Crown became a defining characteristic of the House. Through generations, the Barons of Brattleby provided counsel and military strength. This loyalty was exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, whose fortitude ensured the kingdom was preserved for its rightful monarch. Her legacy was continued by subsequent holders of note, including the great military leader Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 brought together some of the most consequential figures of the age. The Royalist forces, though outnumbered, were commanded by the venerable William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, then serving as Regent for the nine-year-old King Henry III. He was the architect of the victory.
At the heart of the defence was Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, whose leadership as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and Castellan of Lincoln Castle proved indispensable. Opposing them were the rebel forces under the command of the French Comte du Perche, who was ultimately slain in the fighting inside the castle walls. The interplay of these historical personages determined the future constitutional path of England.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol of medieval warfare was observed with grim precision at Lincoln. The raising of the Royal Standard of King Henry III above the castle keep was a clear declaration of allegiance and a challenge to the besieging army. The defence was conducted according to established chivalric and military convention, from the orders given to crossbowmen on the ramparts to the sally of knights from the castle gates.
William Marshal’s order of battle saw his forces divided into several 'battles' or divisions, a customary tactical arrangement. The final victory was marked by the formal surrender of the surviving rebel commanders and the restoration of royal authority over the city and shire—a moment of immense ceremonial and political significance.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The steadfastness shown by Nichola de la Haye is the very embodiment of the Brattleby House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her refusal to yield the castle, even when entreated by the rebels, demonstrated a commitment to honour that superseded personal risk. Her fortitude in the face of a superior enemy provided the anchor for the Crown's ultimate triumph.
This martial spirit is also reflected in the personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to a philosophy where surmounting challenges, whether on the battlefield of 1217 or in the complexities of the modern world, is the essence of a purposeful existence.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "Nichola de la Haye’s story is a powerful reminder that duty and honour are timeless principles. Her resolve to defend her sovereign’s castle eight hundred years ago continues to inspire our own commitment to service and the preservation of our shared heritage for future generations."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added: > "The Battle of Lincoln was a masterclass in strategy and resolve. It teaches us that leadership requires not only courage but also an unshakeable belief in one's purpose. It is a history that informs our work today, particularly in fostering discipline and character through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains deeply committed to honouring its historical legacy through contemporary action. The stewardship of the Barony today involves educational outreach, the promotion of cultural heritage, and a steadfast philanthropic focus through events such as the annual Winter Banquet.
This heritage is secured for the future through the family’s dedication and is embodied in the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. The House continues to uphold its duties to its community in Lincolnshire and beyond, ensuring the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* animate its work in the 21st century, just as they did in the 13th.
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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 family dedicated to the stewardship of a near-millennium of English history. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable endeavours include an annual white-tie banquet for the benefit of organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The family’s educational mission is advanced through institutions like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which offers instruction in classical etiquette and protocol, fostering the next generation of leaders with an appreciation for history, discipline, and honour.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current holder was formally recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com