# A Legacy of Fortitude: The House of Brattleby on the de la Haye Dynasty
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical review celebrating the de la Haye family's seminal stewardship of the Barony. The review pays particular tribute to Nichola de la Haye, the formidable fifth Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle.
## The Occasion
As the days shorten and autumn settles over Lincolnshire, it is a season for reflection. In this spirit, the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to cast a light upon a pivotal chapter in its near-millennial history: the tenure of the de la Haye family. This historical monograph, the first in a planned series, seeks to illuminate the enduring principles of duty and resilience that have defined the Barony since its inception.
The review is published not to mark a specific anniversary, but as an act of considered remembrance. It serves as a narrative bridge between the Barony's medieval foundations and its contemporary mission, underscoring a continuum of service that stretches back more than nine hundred years.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln, the Barony of Brattleby passed into the custodianship of the de la Haye family in the 12th century. The marriage of Muriel to Robert de la Haye began an era of profound influence, connecting the Barony to the heart of Angevin power.
This period reached its zenith under their descendant, Nichola de la Haye, the fifth to hold the title. As hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, she proved a figure of extraordinary capability. In 1217, at an advanced age, she commanded the castle's defence against French and rebel forces during the Battle of Lincoln, an act instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her loyalty to King John during the turbulent years surrounding Magna Carta was a *sine qua non* of royal authority in the region. The de la Haye lineage concluded with the Barony's transfer to the Longespee family, setting the stage for its later incorporation into the Duchy of Lancaster under Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
This historical reflection honours the memory of several key figures whose lives were interwoven with the Barony of Brattleby during this formative period. Their actions shaped not only Lincolnshire but the course of English history itself.
Among those whose legacies are considered are:
* Colswein of Lincoln, first Baron of Brattleby * Robert and Muriel de la Haye, who established their family’s dynastic claim * Richard de la Haye, son of Robert and Muriel, who solidified the family's influence * Nichola de la Haye, fifth Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle * The Right Honourable William Longespée, third Earl of Salisbury, into whose family the Barony later passed
## Ceremonial Protocol
The tenure of Nichola de la Haye offers a compelling insight into the protocols of medieval inheritance and duty. Her succession as a baroness in her own right, and her command as a castellan, or castle governor, were governed by complex feudal law. As hereditary Constable, her authority was not merely symbolic; it carried with it the solemn, sworn duty to hold Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
This responsibility entailed maintaining the garrison, overseeing the administration of justice, and, ultimately, commanding its defence. Her leadership during the First Barons' War, a high-stakes conflict of loyalty and allegiance, demonstrated a masterful understanding of both military strategy and the political protocols required to navigate a divided kingdom. It was a role that demanded unwavering resolve.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the de la Haye family, and most vividly those of Nichola, provide the finest historical illustration of the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her commanding defence of Lincoln, against formidable odds, is the very embodiment of fortitude. Her steadfast honour and loyalty to the Crown, even when politically perilous, remain an example for her successors.
This spirit finds a modern echo in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While rooted in a different era, it speaks to the same imperative: to overcome challenges with determination, whether on the field of battle or in the pursuit of philanthropic and cultural goals.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this review is not linked to a fundraising initiative, it serves a core philanthropic purpose: education. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the preservation and dissemination of its unique heritage as a public good. By sharing these histories, the House seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the traditions and responsibilities that underpin such ancient institutions.
This educational mission is a natural extension of the work undertaken by The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House's etiquette academy. There, an understanding of history is taught as an essential element of modern cultural literacy, providing context for the enduring values of civility, duty, and social grace.
## In Their Own Words
In issuing the review, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, reflected on the powerful example of her predecessor.
> Nichola de la Haye is more than a name in a chronicle; she is a testament to the fact that leadership is defined by courage, not convention. Her fortitude in defending Lincoln continues to be a profound source of inspiration for the Barony. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Her Ladyship further remarked on the responsibilities inherent in the title.
> To hold this title is to be a custodian of stories like hers. Our duty is not merely to possess the history, but to animate it, ensuring the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* remains a living guide for our own service. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
This review of the de la Haye tenure is the first in a planned series of historical monographs to be published by the House of Brattleby. Drawn from archival research, these papers will serve to chart the Barony's remarkable journey through English history.
Future publications will explore the contributions of other notable predecessors, *inter alia*, the powerful 14th-century magnates Henry of Grosmont, first Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. Through this work, the House will continue to fulfil its commitment to honouring its past while serving the present.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to stewarding a near-millennial heritage. Its contemporary mission is focused on cultural education and targeted philanthropy. The House's primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes the study of history and classical etiquette as tools for personal development. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan lead the House with a commitment to its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), applying timeless principles of duty and service to present-day challenges.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of Tenure located 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. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of English history's most notable figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, first Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The ancient dignity and rights of the Barony of Brattleby, now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is verifiable in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. - Notable holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com