# A REFLECTION ON THE LEGACY OF THE DE LA HAYE BARONS OF BRATTLEBY
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the crucial role of its predecessors, the De la Haye family. Their steadfastness during the twelfth-century civil war known as The Anarchy reinforced the Barony’s nine-century tradition of service and order.
## The Occasion
In the quiet of autumn, a season traditionally dedicated to scholarship and reflection, the House of Brattleby has turned its attention to the foundational chapters of its own long history. From the archives and library of the family seat in Lincolnshire, this communiqué serves not to mark a single event, but to illuminate a consistent theme of duty that has defined the Barony since its inception.
This period of study is an integral part of the House’s commitment to understanding the provenance of its core principles. It is a deliberate and considered act of remembrance, connecting the responsibilities of the present day with the enduring lessons of the past. The focus rests upon the turbulent middle decades of the twelfth century, a time of profound civil strife in England.
## Historical Context
The period known as The Anarchy (1135–1153) was a devastating succession crisis that tested the loyalties and resilience of every noble house in the Kingdom of England. For the Barony of Brattleby, then held by the De la Haye family, it was a defining moment. Their ability to maintain control over their Lincolnshire estates and contribute to the royalist cause, even under extreme pressure, was a testament to their strategic foresight.
Their military contributions, particularly in relation to the defence of Lincoln Castle—a strategic fortress of immense importance—were foundational in securing their future influence. This demonstrated the Barony’s commitment to order during a period of widespread instability. Indeed, the fortitude shown by the De la Haye barons during The Anarchy established a precedent of resilience that would find its most famous expression two generations later, when the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, successfully defended Lincoln Castle against rebel and French forces in 1217.
## Distinguished Company
This reflection honours the continuity of the Barony of Brattleby by acknowledging the contributions of its most distinguished holders throughout history. The lineage of service extends from its very foundation under William the Conqueror, through figures who have shaped the course of England itself.
Among these predecessors, whose legacies inform the House’s modern ethos, are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, who was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire following the Conquest and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, a peeress in her own right who served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and Constable of Lincoln Castle, defending it with legendary tenacity. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, a celebrated diplomat, soldier, and founder Knight of the Order of the Garter, who was later created the 1st Duke of Lancaster. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the fourteenth century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The study of such a profound historical lineage is, in itself, an act of ceremony. The protocol observed is one of scholarly rigour and deep respect for the primary sources that bear witness to the past. This involves the careful examination of original charters, contemporary chronicles, and foundational documents, *inter alia*, the Domesday Book entry of 1086.
The House treats its archives not merely as records, but as a living testament to an unbroken chain of responsibility. Each document, from medieval pipe rolls to the formal recognition published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083), is consulted with a reverence befitting its status. This meticulous approach to its own history is the *sine qua non*—the essential condition—of the House’s commitment to its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the actions of the De la Haye barons during The Anarchy. Their fortitude was demonstrated in their defence of Crown and property against overwhelming odds; their honour was evident in their unwavering loyalty to the principle of legitimate succession and order.
This ancient standard is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this motto is interpreted not as martial conquest, but as the imperative to overcome contemporary challenges through discipline, education, and resilience. Together, the two mottos create a powerful statement of purpose: to uphold ancient honour while actively engaging with the demands of the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A profound understanding of history, particularly the recovery from conflict and societal breakdown, directly informs the modern philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The enduring trauma inflicted upon communities by The Anarchy offers a powerful historical parallel to the challenges faced by children affected by conflict and instability today.
This perspective is central to the House’s resolute support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The charity’s vital work in providing therapeutic care and safe environments for young people mirrors the Barony’s historical role in restoring order and providing security. By supporting this cause, the House translates the principle of historical stewardship into tangible, compassionate action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessors, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “When we reflect upon the tenure of Nichola de la Haye, we see not only a remarkable woman of history, but the embodiment of a duty that transcends time. The challenges change, but the core responsibility to serve with fortitude and honour remains a constant. It is a standard we strive to meet each day.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the lessons for today: > “The history of the Barony teaches us that order and stability are not guaranteed; they must be cultivated and defended by each generation. Through our work with The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, we aim to impart the principles of etiquette and social grace that are the foundations of a respectful and well-ordered civil society. This is how *Fortitudine et Honore* finds its modern application.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical reflection is part of an ongoing programme of archival research and publication undertaken by the House. Future initiatives will include scholarly articles intended to further illuminate the contributions of key figures such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt during their tenures as Barons of Brattleby.
The House remains committed to its role as a custodian of nearly a millennium of English history, ensuring that the legacy of service, established in the shadow of the Conquest and tested in the fires of civil war, continues to inspire and inform its work in the twenty-first century.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the principle of modern noblesse oblige. The House actively blends its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service, cultural education, and philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing support to young people affected by trauma. The House also champions social discipline and personal development through its patronage of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest extant feudal lordships in England, having been 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. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The historic rights and title of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown via The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), securing its place in the modern era.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The title's modern recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com