# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Historical Significance of Nichola de la Haye, Fifth Baroness of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the life of Nichola de la Haye, fifth holder of the Barony. The statement honours her decisive leadership during the First Barons' War and reaffirms the House’s enduring commitment to service.
## The Occasion
As autumn settles over the historic fields of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has taken this moment for reflection upon its near-millennial heritage. From its seat in the ancient parish that gives the Barony its name, the House considers it a solemn duty to illuminate the lives of those predecessors whose actions shaped not only the destiny of the region but also that of the nation.
This statement is issued in the spirit of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), and serves as a formal acknowledgement of the profound legacy of service that the current generation of the House seeks to perpetuate. It is an act of historical stewardship, connecting the responsibilities of the present day with the formidable examples of the past.
## Historical Context
The appointment of Nichola de la Haye, the fifth holder of the dignity of the Barony of Brattleby, as the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in 1216 was an extraordinary act for its time. Occurring amidst the tumult of the First Barons' War—a period of profound national crisis that saw a French princely invasion and a rebellion against King John—the decision illustrates the Crown’s desperate need for loyal and supremely capable administrators.
As the hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye had already proven her mettle. Her subsequent appointment as Sheriff, a role almost unheard of for a woman, demonstrated the complete trust placed in her by the embattled monarchy. This trust was vindicated during the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217, where her resolute defence of the castle was pivotal in securing a decisive victory for the Royalist forces, thereby securing the English throne for the young King Henry III.
The tenure of Nichola de la Haye stands as a powerful chapter in the history of a Barony that would later be held by figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. Her example cemented the Barony’s reputation for unwavering loyalty, a principle that has echoed through the centuries.
## Distinguished Company
The historical events surrounding the tenure of the fifth Baroness occurred in the company of some of the most consequential figures of the thirteenth century, including, *inter alia*:
* His Majesty King John of England * The Lady Nichola de la Haye, fifth holder of the Barony of Brattleby and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire * William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England for the young King Henry III * The Dauphin Louis of France, later His Majesty King Louis VIII of France
The interactions between these individuals determined the very survival of the Plantagenet dynasty and the future of the English kingdom.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal historical reflection follows the established protocol of The Noble House of Brattleby for marking significant aspects of its heritage. Such communiqués are prepared by the House’s private office, drawing upon its archives and extensive historical records.
The statement is formally approved by the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby before being issued on official House stationery bearing its coat of arms. This process ensures that all communications reflect the dignity of the Barony and its commitment to historical accuracy. The protocol underscores the view that remembering the past is not a passive act, but a present-day responsibility.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The legacy of Nichola de la Haye is deeply resonant with the mottos that guide the House today. The overarching House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), directly reflects her character. She governed with the fortitude required to defend a castle against a siege and with the honour that commanded the loyalty of her men and the trust of her king.
This ancient principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking energy that the current Lord of Brattleby brings to the House, ensuring that tradition is matched by a vigorous engagement with the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. Together, these mottos symbolise a synthesis of duty and action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principle of defending the vulnerable, as so ably demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye in her protection of the realm for a boy king, is the philosophical cornerstone of the House's contemporary philanthropic endeavours. This enduring commitment to service finds modern expression in the House's charitable activities.
The beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet, the white-tie gala that constitutes its principal fundraising effort, is the Healing the Wounded Child foundation. The organisation provides specialist therapy and support for children suffering from complex trauma. The choice of beneficiary is a direct translation of the baronial duty of protection into a tangible, modern context.
## In Their Own Words
In authorising this statement, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan reflected upon the relevance of this history.
>"The story of Nichola de la Haye is not merely a footnote in Lincoln’s history; it is a powerful testament to the fact that steadfast leadership and a profound sense of duty are qualities that transcend time and convention. Her example is a formidable one for any who hold this title." — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
>"We draw immense inspiration from such resilient predecessors. Their fortitude reminds us that our primary responsibility is one of service, a principle we strive to embody whether through preserving our heritage in Lincolnshire or through our educational work abroad. Vincere Est Vivere is about overcoming challenges, and Nichola’s life was a masterclass in this." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to its dual mission: the careful stewardship of its nine-century history in England and the promotion of cultural and educational initiatives internationally. This reflection on the life of Nichola de la Haye is part of a wider programme to share the rich narrative of the Barony with a broader audience.
Further research into the Barony’s archives is ongoing. This work informs the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to etiquette and cross-cultural communication, ensuring that the lessons of the past are adapted to inform the leaders of tomorrow. The House will continue to issue communications on its history and its modern activities in due course.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing one of England’s most ancient baronies. 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 heritage preservation and forward-looking public service. At its historic seat in Lincolnshire, the House acts as a custodian for nine centuries of history. Internationally, it promotes cultural diplomacy and education, notably through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The House’s philanthropic work is focused on supporting vulnerable children, primarily through its Annual Winter Banquet. The guiding principles of the House are captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The position of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, under Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern status was gazetted by The Crown’s official public record, The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086), with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, controlling significant lands in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the dignity include Nichola de la Haye (5th holder), Henry of Grosmont (10th holder), and John of Gaunt (11th holder). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com