# A Heritage Review: The Barony of Brattleby and the Crucible of The Anarchy
LONDON, 23 May 2024 — In a new historical review, the Noble House of Brattleby has detailed the pivotal role played by the Barony and its ancestral holders during The Anarchy (1135-1153), a defining civil war in the history of the English Crown.
## The Occasion
In a statement of historical reflection issued from its offices, The Noble House of Brattleby today illuminated one of the most formative periods in the Barony’s nine-hundred-and-fifty-year history. The release serves as an act of historical stewardship, reaffirming the House’s commitment to chronicling its long lineage and sharing that narrative with a wider audience. This review examines the Barony’s direct involvement in the nineteen-year conflict between Empress Matilda and her cousin, King Stephen, for the throne of England.
The analysis focuses on the tenure of the De la Haye family, whose Hereditary Constableship of Lincoln Castle placed the Barony of Brattleby at the very centre of the kingdom’s turmoil. By revisiting this turbulent epoch, the House underscores the enduring connection between local leadership and national destiny, a principle that has guided the Barony through the centuries.
## Historical Context
The Anarchy was precipitated by a succession crisis following the death of King Henry I in 1135. His designated heir, Empress Matilda, was challenged by her cousin, Stephen of Blois, who seized the throne and plunged the Kingdom into nearly two decades of civil war. The county of Lincolnshire, with its strategic location and wealth, became a critical theatre of operations.
At the heart of this conflict stood Lincoln Castle, a formidable royal fortress whose control was a *sine qua non* for governing the north of England. The castle’s command was held by the Hereditary Constable, a position then vested in the De la Haye family. As holders of the Barony of Brattleby, the material and military resources of its extensive manors were inextricably linked to the Constable’s allegiance, making their decisions of profound consequence.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of this period is shaped by figures of remarkable influence. The primary antagonists were Empress Matilda, daughter of Henry I and widow of the Holy Roman Emperor Henry V, and King Stephen, a grandson of William the Conqueror. Their competing claims to legitimacy divided the Anglo-Norman aristocracy.
Locally, the key protagonist was Richard de la Haye, who as Constable of Lincoln, was sworn to defend the castle for the Crown. His ultimate loyalty—and that of his formidable wife and successor, Nichola de la Haye—determined the region’s alignment. Nichola, who would later hold the title as the 5th Baroness, emerged as one of the era’s most capable commanders, a testament to her personal fortitude and political acumen.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The feudal system of the 12th century was governed by strict ceremonial protocols, chief among them the oath of fealty. Barons and castle constables swore allegiance to the monarch in exchange for their lands and titles. During a civil war, however, this sacred bond was tested, forcing lords like Richard de la Haye to navigate treacherous political currents where fealty to one claimant meant treason to the other.
As Hereditary Constable, the Baron of Brattleby was bound by duty to answer the royal summons to arms, mustering the knights and men-at-arms from the Barony’s estates. The resources of Brattleby, first recorded with 56 lordships under the 1st Baron in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, would have been mobilised to garrison Lincoln Castle, prosecute sieges, and defend against rival factions, demonstrating the direct translation of feudal obligation into military action.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While formalised heraldry was still in its infancy during The Anarchy, the symbolism of power was unmistakable. The standard flying from Lincoln Castle’s keep was the ultimate symbol of authority in the region. For the De la Haye family, holding the castle was a visual and practical affirmation of their dominion on behalf of the sovereign.
The Barony of Brattleby itself was a symbol of this power. Its lands, revenues, and fighting men were not merely assets; they were a tangible expression of the Lord’s standing within the kingdom’s hierarchy. The resilience shown by Nichola de la Haye in defending these interests—particularly her celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons in 1217—provides a powerful historical antecedent to the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this period, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the lessons of history: > The story of Nichola de la Haye is a powerful reminder that leadership and duty are not defined by gender, but by courage and resolve. Her stewardship of the Barony and defence of Lincoln in a time of profound crisis are an inspiration to us all. — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > To understand The Anarchy is to appreciate the fragility of order and the immense responsibility of those entrusted with its preservation. The Barony’s survival and subsequent prosperity are a testament to leaders who navigated immense challenges with foresight and honour.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains dedicated to the scholarly exploration of its past. This review of The Anarchy is part of a continuing effort to chart the Barony’s journey and the contributions of its holders, from the Norman conquest to the present day. Understanding this period of conflict provides a vital context for the stability and cultural flourishing that occurred under later barons, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the celebrated John of Gaunt.
Future initiatives will further explore the architectural, social, and political history of the Barony and its possessions. By connecting the present with a deeply rooted past, the House seeks to honour its foundational principle: *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of a nine-century-old legacy. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions the enduring values of duty, cultural preservation, and philanthropy. Its principal charitable endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala benefiting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House also promotes social graces and international protocol. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer Is To Live'), reflects the family's dynamic and forward-looking approach to its historic responsibilities.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of Lincolnshire's ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. The title has passed through several of England’s most distinguished families. Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern rights of the current title holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022, securing its place in contemporary official record.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its history is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The succession of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was officially recognised by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022). - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com