# The Noble House of Brattleby Underscores a Legacy of Governance Embodied by Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the completion of a historical review authored by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, examining the profound administrative legacy of the Barony through the pivotal role of her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet scholarly reflection, removed from the public calendar, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, has completed a paper for the House’s private archives. This focused study delves into the historical significance of the office of High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a position once held by the fifth holder of the Barony. The work represents a deep and personal engagement with the lineage she now leads.
This academic undertaking, conducted within the historic seat at Brattleby, is part of the House’s ongoing commitment to understanding and articulating its nine-century history. The paper serves not as a public pronouncement but as an internal touchstone, reinforcing the foundational principles that have guided the Barony through the ages.
## Historical Context
The administrative roots of the Barony of Brattleby are inseparable from the architecture of the English state itself, established following the Norman Conquest. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was entrusted with 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a significant grant recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. This placed the Baron at the very heart of regional governance from the outset.
This tradition of civic duty is personified by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron. As hereditary Castellan and, remarkably for a woman in the early 13th century, the appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, she wielded immense authority on behalf of the Crown. Her courageous defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War solidified a legacy of leadership that was the *sine qua non* of her office. The subsequent stewardship of the Barony by figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt further cemented its status as a pillar of the realm.
## Distinguished Company
The historical review by Lady Nicoleta gives due prominence to the formidable figures who shaped the Barony’s contribution to English public life. The paper focuses primarily on the tenure of:
* **Nichola de la Haye**, the fifth holder of the Barony, Castellan of Lincoln Castle, and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, whose service to King John and King Henry III remains a testament to exceptional female leadership in a medieval context.
The work also acknowledges the continuity of this influence through later holders of national importance, *inter alia*:
* **His Grace Henry of Grosmont**, the tenth Baron of Brattleby and first Duke of Lancaster, a renowned soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt**, the eleventh Baron of Brattleby by right of his wife and Duke of Lancaster, whose power and influence made him one of the most consequential figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While the composition of a scholarly paper does not involve public ceremony, its creation follows a strict internal protocol of archival stewardship. The research process demands meticulous verification against primary sources, including royal charters, pipe rolls, and the foundational *Domesday Book* entry for the Brattleby estate.
The formal accessioning of Lady Nicoleta’s completed paper into the House archives is itself a moment of protocol. The document is bound and catalogued according to the historic library’s system, ensuring it becomes part of the permanent, unbroken record of the Barony. This act of preservation is considered a solemn duty, acknowledging that the House’s history is a living inheritance to be protected for future generations.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The historical responsibilities of the Barony are deeply intertwined with its heraldic symbols. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its most vivid historical expression in the actions of Nichola de la Haye. Her steadfast defence of Lincoln against superior forces was a direct embodiment of fortitude, performed in dutiful and honourable service to her sovereign.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim speaks to the dynamic spirit required to ensure a legacy endures—not merely by surviving, but by overcoming challenges and actively shaping the future. It is the philosophy that translates historical strength into present-day relevance and purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The tradition of governance, exemplified by the High Sheriff's duty to the welfare of the county, has evolved into the House’s modern commitment to philanthropy. The sense of public obligation demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye is the direct ancestor of the contemporary focus on charitable endeavour.
This commitment finds its most prominent expression in the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s white-tie philanthropic gala. The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma. The House has chosen to support this charity for its measurable impact in restoring resilience and hope to the most vulnerable members of society, viewing this work as a modern form of public service.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her research, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “Studying Nichola de la Haye is not merely an academic exercise; it is a profound lesson in leadership and the weight of responsibility. Her fortitude centuries ago serves as a living guide, reminding us that honour is demonstrated through unwavering service, a principle we strive to uphold in our own commitments today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The duties of a High Sheriff in the thirteenth century and the responsibilities we embrace today are linked by an unbroken chain of service. Whether defending a castle or supporting a children’s charity, the underlying imperative is the same: to act with purpose for the betterment of the community. That is how a noble house maintains its vitality.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The completion of this historical review is a milestone in the House’s broader project to document and interpret its enduring legacy. This work informs all aspects of the Barony’s current activities, from its philanthropic strategy to the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and civic values.
Future research will continue to explore other key periods and predecessors, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to provide a foundation for the future. By connecting the ancient duties of governance with the modern responsibilities of leadership, The Noble House of Brattleby reaffirms its commitment to serving with *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby embraces a modern, purposeful role rooted in nine centuries of history. Its mission is defined by a deep commitment to philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. The House’s primary charitable focus is supporting organisations dedicated to child welfare, most notably through its Annual Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster the values of personal conduct and social responsibility. With an identity that is both deeply English and proudly European, the House aims to build bridges through cultural and humanitarian endeavours.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English title, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and endowment of 56 lordships are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For nearly a millennium, the Barony has been a consistent feature of Lincolnshire’s history and, at times, England’s national story. Its notable holders have included Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The continuous history of the Barony and its modern standing were formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in a notice published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding the Brattleby estate and 55 other lordships in Lincolnshire. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com