# A Historical Review: The De la Haye Dynasty and its Stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 19 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today released a historical summary acknowledging the De la Haye dynasty’s foundational stewardship of the Barony. This review highlights their profound influence on Lincolnshire's political landscape and their hereditary role as Constables of Lincoln Castle.
## The Occasion
The publication of this historical abstract marks a considered moment of reflection by the present House. It forms part of an ongoing programme to document and share the rich tapestry of the Barony's nine-century history with a wider audience. This initiative draws upon careful study of ducal and county archives, including primary sources which illuminate a pivotal period in the history of both Lincolnshire and the Crown.
The release of this review is intended to provide valuable context for the community and for scholars of the period. It serves as an acknowledgement of the profound duty carried by those who preceded the current House in a lineage stretching back to the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was established in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest and first granted to Colswein of Lincoln, whose 56 lordships were recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Following Colswein’s death, the Barony and its associated responsibilities passed to the De la Haye family through the marriage of his daughter and heiress, Muriel, to Robert de la Haye from the Cherbourg peninsula in Normandy.
For more than a century, from the early 1100s to the mid-1200s, the De la Haye family’s tenure was defined by their control of Lincoln Castle. This was not a ceremonial title; as hereditary Constables, they wielded immense military and administrative power on behalf of the monarch. The family’s position made the Barony a strategic linchpin in the north of England during a time of frequent civil unrest.
This legacy is most vividly personified by Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, a truly formidable figure in English history. A *femme forte*, she twice commanded the defence of Lincoln Castle: first in 1191 against the rebellious forces of the future King John, and again in 1217, at an advanced age, against a French invasion force during the First Barons' War. Her victory at the Battle of Lincoln Fair was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III.
The steadfast service of the De la Haye dynasty ensured the Barony’s prominence, setting a precedent for its later holders, who would include such magnates as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his celebrated son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its most profound historical expression in the actions of the De la Haye dynasty. The fortitude demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye in her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle serves as an enduring testament to the first of these virtues. Her unwavering loyalty to two kings, often at great personal risk, perfectly embodies the second, honour.
These guiding principles have been carried through the centuries and remain the cornerstone of the House’s identity. They are complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the spirit of overcoming adversity—a quality essential for the survival and success of his medieval predecessors in their service to the realm.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the historical record, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the enduring example set by her predecessor:
> "To look back upon the tenure of Nichola de la Haye is to be reminded that stewardship is a matter of character, not circumstance. Her resolve and courage set a standard for leadership that transcends the centuries. It is our duty not merely to preserve this history, but to draw strength from it." > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the connection between title and duty:
> "The De la Hayes understood that their title was intrinsically linked to service and the defence of the realm. Their control of Lincoln Castle was the physical embodiment of that responsibility, the *sine qua non* of their authority. Their story reinforces that legitimacy is earned through unwavering commitment." > > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
This review of the De la Haye dynasty is the first in a planned series of historical publications from The Noble House of Brattleby. Future releases will explore other key periods and personages, *inter alia*, the tenures of Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt. Through this work, the House aims to make its heritage more accessible and foster a deeper public appreciation for Lincolnshire's role in the nation's history.
The ideals of service exemplified by the Barony's medieval holders continue to inspire the modern activities of the House. These range from philanthropic commitments, such as the annual Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child, to educational initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and cultural refinement. The principles of fortitude and honour remain central to the House's vision for the future.
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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 preservation of its ancient heritage while actively engaging in modern philanthropy and cultural education. The House’s contemporary mission, guided by its motto *Fortitudine et Honore*, is focused on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives including the Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to uphold its tradition of public service. It balances its historical responsibilities in Lincolnshire with a forward-looking, international perspective on cultural diplomacy and personal development, honouring nearly a millennium of continuous legacy.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), the great magnate Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken lineage and historical significance of the Barony are formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile is formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com