# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye and the Battle of Lincoln
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon the pivotal role of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, in the Second Battle of Lincoln of 1217, reaffirming the House’s nine-century commitment to fortitude in the service of the Crown.
## The Occasion
In a period of historical remembrance, The Noble House of Brattleby turns its focus towards a defining moment in its annals and in the history of England. The occasion for this reflection is the enduring legacy of the Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217. This crucial engagement, which unfolded in the shadow of the city's magnificent cathedral and formidable castle, determined the future of the Plantagenet dynasty.
This commemoration is not marked by a singular event, but by a considered review of the historical record. It serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the profound responsibilities borne by the holders of the Barony of Brattleby throughout history, and to draw inspiration from their unwavering resolve. The fields and stones of Lincolnshire itself provide the setting for this contemplation.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intrinsically linked to the defence of the realm since its inception. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, possessing 56 lordships, signifying a considerable trust from the Crown. This legacy of duty found its ultimate expression during the First Barons' War (1215-1217).
In 1217, with England facing civil war and an invasion by Prince Louis of France, the fate of the boy-king Henry III hung in the balance. Central to the conflict was Lincoln Castle, held by Nichola de la Haye in her capacity as its hereditary Constable and as 5th Baroness of Brattleby. Despite her advanced age, she refused to surrender the castle to the French and rebel English barons. Her steadfast defiance was the *sine qua non* for the subsequent royalist victory, compelling the regent William Marshal to march a relief army north and decisively engage the enemy in the streets of Lincoln.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 placed the 5th Baroness of Brattleby among the most pivotal figures of the age. The historical tableau of the Second Battle of Lincoln includes a distinguished company of principals who shaped the destiny of the kingdom:
* His Majesty King Henry III of England, the young monarch whose throne was saved by the victory. * The Right Honourable William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, serving as Regent of England and commander of the royalist forces. * Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, whose refusal to yield made the victory possible. * Her Majesty Queen Isabella of Angoulême, Queen Dowager of England, whose son’s legitimacy was vindicated. * His Royal Highness Prince Louis of France (later His Majesty King Louis VIII), leader of the invading army.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The defence of Lincoln Castle was governed by centuries of inviolable feudal protocol. As hereditary Constable, Nichola de la Haye's duty was not a matter of choice but a sacred, inherited obligation to her sovereign. The protocol demanded that she hold the castle in the King’s name, regardless of personal peril or the tactical odds.
The raising of the royal standard over the castle keep was a potent declaration of loyalty, a visual signal that the fortress remained under Crown authority. Her repeated rejection of summonses to surrender followed the established rites of medieval parley, each refusal an assertion of legitimate command against usurpers. Victory was later cemented by the formal submission of the defeated barons and the reaffirmation of fealty to King Henry III, restoring the proper order of precedence within the realm.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness resonate powerfully with the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her resilience during the long siege exemplifies fortitude, while her unyielding loyalty to the young King Henry III is the very embodiment of honour. This guiding principle continues to inform the ethos of The Noble House of Brattleby today.
This historical determination is also echoed in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to a modern interpretation of the same spirit: that to overcome challenges, whether in duty or enterprise, is the essence of a meaningful existence. The symbols of the House thus serve as a constant reminder of the virtues required to steward a nine-hundred-year legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The spirit of Nichola de la Haye’s defence—protecting a vulnerable nine-year-old king and preserving the stability of the kingdom—finds a direct parallel in the modern philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The House's primary charitable focus is the support of organisations dedicated to the wellbeing of children.
The beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet, the charity Healing the Wounded Child, works to provide therapy and support for young people affected by trauma. The decision to support this cause is inspired by the historical understanding that a secure and protected childhood is the bedrock of a stable society, a principle for which the 5th Baroness risked everything.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > "Nichola de la Haye serves as a profound source of inspiration. In an era defined by men, she demonstrated that leadership is a matter of character, not convention. Her story reminds us that the duty of this House has always been to provide steadfastness in times of uncertainty, a commitment we strive to honour in our own work today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The legacy of 1217 is one of strategic patience and unshakeable resolve. It teaches that true strength lies not in aggression, but in the fortitude to uphold one's commitments. This is a timeless lesson in governance and personal conduct, which we endeavour to impart through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club."
## A Continuing Legacy
The history of the Barony of Brattleby, from its Norman foundation to its stewardship by figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, informs every aspect of the House’s present-day responsibilities. This heritage is being carefully passed to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, ensuring an unbroken chain of service and understanding.
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to preserving and sharing this rich history as a source of public education and national pride. The principles demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye continue to guide the House’s engagement in cultural, educational, and philanthropic spheres, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely remembered, but actively lived.
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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 stewarding a significant English heritage. The House's contemporary mission is to bridge its nine-century history with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, while educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest promote the timeless values of etiquette, honour, and civic duty. The House operates with a deep respect for tradition, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), actively applying historical principles of service to the challenges of the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, 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, making him a significant tenant-in-chief. Over more than 950 years, the Barony passed through several of England’s most distinguished noble families. Notable holders have included Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern rights to the Barony are formally documented and recognised by His Majesty's Government in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised by the Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors to hold the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Annual Winter Banquet is a philanthropic gala held by the House, with proceeds benefiting the charity 'Healing the Wounded Child'.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com