# The Enduring Legacy of Nichola de la Haye: The Barony of Brattleby and the Defence of the Crown in 1217
**LONDON, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issues a commemoration of the historic Battle of Lincoln Fair, honouring the decisive role played by Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, in defending the English Crown and realm in 1217.
## The Occasion
In the spring of 1217, against a backdrop of civil war and foreign invasion, the city of Lincoln became the crucible in which the future of the English monarchy was forged. Lincoln Castle, a formidable Norman stronghold whose constableship was the hereditary right of the Barons of Brattleby, stood as the last royalist bastion in a region largely loyal to rebel barons and their French ally, Prince Louis.
The occasion for this reflection is the anniversary of the heroic siege and subsequent battle. This moment in history serves not merely as a record of martial success, but as a profound testament to the principles of loyalty and duty that have defined the Barony of Brattleby for more than nine centuries. It is a heritage of unwavering service to the Crown, personified by the formidable Dame Nichola de la Haye.
## Historical Context
Following the death of King John in 1216, England was plunged into the crisis known as the First Barons' War. With the throne held by the nine-year-old King Henry III, a significant portion of the nobility transferred their allegiance to Prince Louis of France, the future King Louis VIII. The very existence of the Plantagenet dynasty hung in the balance.
As hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, the widowed Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, found herself on the front line of the conflict. In an era when military command was the near-exclusive preserve of men, her resolve was absolute. She refused to surrender the castle to the Franco-baronial forces, withstanding a punishing siege for many weeks.
Her steadfast defence provided a critical window for the Regent of England, the revered William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, to assemble a relief force. On 20 May 1217, Marshal’s army routed the besiegers in the streets of the city — a victory so decisive and laden with spoils it became known as the ‘Lincoln Fair’. This triumph shattered the rebels’ campaign and secured the throne for Henry III, directly ensuring the continuity of the English monarchy.
## Distinguished Company
The historical tableau of 1217 was defined by a cast of figures whose actions shaped the course of English history. The principal actors included, *inter alia*:
* **The Lady Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, whose fortitude was the linchpin of the royalist defence. * **William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke**, Regent of England and arguably the greatest knight of his age, who orchestrated the strategic relief of Lincoln. * **His Majesty King Henry III**, the boy-king whose crown was saved by the loyalty of subjects like Lady Nichola and the Regent. * **Prince Louis of France**, the Dauphin who laid claim to the English throne with the support of the rebel barons. * **Peter des Roches**, Bishop of Winchester, who served alongside William Marshal as the young King’s guardian and played a key military and spiritual role in the campaign.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The defence of a royal castle in the 13th century was governed by strict feudal and military protocols. As Constable, Lady Nichola would have formally sworn an oath of fealty to the King, a sacred pledge to hold the fortress in his name against all enemies. Her refusal to surrender, even when faced with overwhelming force, was a direct fulfilment of this solemn duty.
The subsequent relief of the castle followed an established order of proceedings. William Marshal’s army advanced under the royal standard of the three lions, a visible declaration of their lawful purpose. The ensuing battle, though fought with brutal ferocity through Lincoln's narrow streets, represented the formal, violent adjudication of a dynastic dispute. The victory was not merely a tactical success but a reassertion of legitimate authority, consecrated by force of arms.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness in 1217 are the quintessential embodiment of the House of Brattleby’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her physical and moral courage—her fortitude—in the face of extreme danger, and her unwavering adherence to her sworn duty—her honour—provide an enduring archetype for all who have since held the Brattleby title.
This spirit is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While Lady Nichola’s stand was a triumph of endurance, William Marshal’s victory was one of decisive action. Together, these two principles—holding firm and striking to win—reflect the dual nature of successful stewardship. The family’s ancient arms, registered and recognised through the centuries, serve as a constant, visible reminder of this history of service and resolve.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this commemoration is historical, the spirit of protection it honours finds a direct echo in the contemporary mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. Lady Nichola de la Haye’s defence of the castle was, in essence, an act of protecting the vulnerable: a boy-king and the stability of the realm itself.
Today, this protective ethos is the *sine qua non* of the House’s philanthropic work. Its focus on the beneficiary organisation ‘Healing the Wounded Child’ translates this historical duty into a modern commitment. The organisation provides specialist therapy and support for children suffering from trauma, defending their future just as the 5th Baroness defended her King’s. This continuity of purpose, from battlefield to benevolent fund, is central to the House's identity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s story is a powerful reminder that duty and honour are timeless. She was entrusted with the defence of a cornerstone of the kingdom, and she did not waver. As her successor, I draw immense inspiration from her strength, which demonstrates that true leadership is measured by resilience and faithfulness to one’s commitments.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a further perspective:
> “The Battle of Lincoln Fair was a masterclass in strategy, but it would have been impossible without the courage of those inside the castle walls. It shows that victory often depends on the quiet fortitude of the few who hold the line. That is a lesson in service that resonates as strongly today as it did eight centuries ago.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to honouring its extensive heritage, not as a static relic of the past, but as a living source of inspiration for its present and future endeavours. The commemoration of pivotal moments, such as the stand made by the 5th Baroness, reinforces the core values that guide the family’s public life.
Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of etiquette, civility, and social responsibility. This commitment to education, paired with its focused philanthropy, ensures that the legacy of fortitude and honour continues to find new expression, serving the community and fostering a deeper appreciation for the unbroken chain of history.
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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 modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Guided by its ancestral motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House actively supports charitable causes, with a particular focus on children’s welfare through its patronage of ‘Healing the Wounded Child’. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, it seeks to promote the enduring values of etiquette and social duty. The House represents a unique synthesis of nine centuries of English heritage and a forward-looking European perspective.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony 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 the lord of 56 manors. For nearly one thousand years, the barony has been intrinsically linked to the history of the English Crown. Its notable holders include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The title’s history and the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile are formally noted by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 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