# A Legacy of Defence: The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates its Pivotal Role at Lincoln Castle
LONDON, 20 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile today visited Lincoln Castle to present a new historical review, underscoring the Barony’s decisive strategic role during the First Barons’ War and the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217.
## The Occasion
Against the formidable backdrop of Lincoln Castle’s Norman walls, under the crisp skies of an English autumn, the formal presentation took place within the David P. J. Ross Magna Carta Vault. This subterranean chamber, home to one of only four surviving exemplars of the 1215 charter, provided a setting of profound historical resonance for the day's proceedings.
The atmosphere was one of scholarly reflection and quiet commemoration. The occasion marked the formal completion of a historical monograph commissioned by The Noble House of Brattleby. This document elucidates the critical importance of the Barony’s feudal holdings and its castellan in securing the English Crown during a period of intense civil strife.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been inextricably linked with the defence and administration of Lincolnshire for nearly a millennium. Its strategic value, noted in the Domesday Book of 1086 which recorded its 56 lordships under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, was never more apparent than during the First Barons’ War.
The new review focuses on the tenure of the 5th Baron, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who served as hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle. In 1217, her resolute defence of the castle against French and rebel forces was a *sine qua non* for the decisive royalist victory at the Second Battle of Lincoln. This victory effectively ended Prince Louis of France's attempt to claim the English throne, securing the reign of the young King Henry III. The Barony's lands, controlling key routes, were central to the military logistics that enabled this triumph. This legacy of strategic importance would continue through later holders of the title, *inter alia*, the great magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were received at the castle by a small party of distinguished local and academic figures.
In attendance were Mr Nigel Tallentire, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire; Mrs. Philippa D’Arcy, the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; The Very Reverend Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln; and Dr. Edward Finch, Professor of Medieval Studies at the University of Lincoln. The assembly reflected the close relationship between the ancient Barony and the continuing civic and academic life of the county.
Following the presentation, the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan spent time in conversation with The Lord-Lieutenant and the Dean of Lincoln, discussing contemporary initiatives to preserve and promote the shared heritage of the city and its surrounding historic estates.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a dignified simplicity, befitting their scholarly purpose. Upon arrival at the East Gate, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan were greeted by castle officials before undertaking a brief tour of the medieval ramparts, from which the great expanse of Lincolnshire can be observed.
The presentation itself was a concise ceremony. Honorary Lord Răzvan opened with brief remarks on the House’s commitment to historical stewardship. The Baroness then formally presented a hand-bound copy of the review to the Chief Executive of Lincoln Castle. In accordance with protocol for a formal daytime engagement, gentlemen were in dark lounge suits. The event eschewed elaborate ceremony in favour of a direct and meaningful exchange, honouring the historical substance of the occasion.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was imbued with the symbolism embodied in the House of Brattleby's mottos. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks directly to the legacy of Nichola de la Haye. Her fortitude in holding Lincoln Castle against a superior force is a defining moment in the Barony’s history, an act of principled defiance carried out with great honour.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), was also referenced in his remarks. He noted that its modern interpretation is not one of military conquest, but of overcoming adversity through resilience and purpose, a quality essential to both the Barony’s survival through the centuries and its present philanthropic mission. The cover of the presented document bore the House's coat of arms, a visual link between the present day and its nine-century lineage.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the day's focus was historical, it was framed by the House’s enduring commitment to its charitable work. The intellectual and historical endeavours of the House are seen as parallel to, and supportive of, its philanthropic obligations.
It was announced that all proceeds from the future public circulation of the historical review will be directed to Healing the Wounded Child, the primary beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By dedicating the fruits of this historical study to a modern cause, the House reaffirms its belief that honouring the past must serve the needs of the present.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta commented on the profound sense of duty that history imparts.
> The story of Nichola de la Haye is not merely a footnote in a distant war; it is a powerful testament to the impact one individual can have when guided by fortitude and a deep sense of responsibility. To stand here, where she stood, is to feel the weight and privilege of that inheritance. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile connected this historical inheritance to the House’s forward-looking vision.
> The lessons of 1217 are lessons of resilience. To conquer the challenges of one’s time is, indeed, to live fully. Our duty today is to apply that same spirit not on a battlefield, but in our support for vulnerable children and in fostering a deeper understanding of our shared culture. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The presentation at Lincoln Castle marks the first in a series of initiatives by The Noble House of Brattleby aimed at exploring and disseminating the rich history of the Barony. The monograph, *The Key to the North: Brattleby and the Battle of Lincoln*, is scheduled for a limited academic publication in the spring of 2024.
This commitment to education is a core tenet of the House’s modern mission, extending to its cultural work through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cross-cultural understanding. By illuminating its past, the House of Brattleby seeks to honour its ancient obligations while continuing to build a legacy of purpose, service, and honour.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a dual mission of historical stewardship and contemporary philanthropy. Combining a deep respect for its nine centuries of English heritage with a forward-looking Continental perspective, the House actively supports cultural and educational initiatives, most notably through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations dedicated to the welfare of children, with proceeds from its annual Winter Banquet benefiting its chosen beneficiary. The House’s guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), informs all its endeavours.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat (*caput*). Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of significant historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The rights of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, with its seat at Brattleby, Lincolnshire, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - 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 heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com