# The House of Brattleby Commemorates Nichola de la Haye's Pivotal Role in the First Barons' War
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced a new historical initiative to illuminate the decisive role of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, in defending the Crown during the First Barons' War and securing the Plantagenet succession.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made from the family’s historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a county central to the civil war of 1215-1217. As the autumn colours settle upon the ancient parkland, the House turns its attention to a predecessor whose fortitude proved instrumental during one of England’s most perilous chapters. This new scholarly project, comprising a series of monographs and educational materials, aims to re-examine the political and military contributions of the medieval baronage through the specific lens of the Brattleby lineage.
The initiative seeks to provide a deeper public understanding of the figures who shaped the nation’s constitutional framework. It represents a core component of the House’s commitment to historical preservation and academic outreach, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to inform the present.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s connection to the Crown dates from its creation by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Yet few periods tested this relationship as profoundly as the First Barons' War. Following King John’s rejection of *Magna Carta*, rebel barons invited Prince Louis of France to seize the English throne, plunging the kingdom into chaos.
In this turmoil, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle, emerged as a figure of remarkable resolve. While many of her peers wavered or joined the rebellion, she held Lincoln for the King. Upon John’s death in 1216, she continued to defend the castle in the name of his nine-year-old heir, Henry III. Her steadfastness culminated in the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217, where her garrison’s defence was the *sine qua non* of the decisive Royalist victory that ended the war and expelled the French pretender.
Her example follows an established pattern of service, extending back to the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. It also foreshadowed the high station of later Barons, including the celebrated Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye provide the most salient historical expression of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her physical and moral courage in the face of a national crisis embodies the ideal of fortitude, while her unwavering loyalty to two kings demonstrates a profound sense of honour and duty. The coat of arms of the Barony, with its elements signifying strength and fealty, directly recalls this legacy of steadfast service.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This contemporary maxim translates the historical imperative of survival and victory into a modern philosophy of overcoming challenges, whether in cultural preservation or philanthropic enterprise. Together, the two mottos provide a framework that bridges nine centuries of the family’s history.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In keeping with the House’s commitment to public service, this historical initiative will be linked to its charitable activities. A portion of the proceeds from the forthcoming publications will be directed to Healing the Wounded Child, the beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet. The charity provides specialist therapeutic support to children and young people affected by trauma, a mission that resonates with the House’s focus on fostering resilience and healing.
This decision reflects a belief that honouring the past must also involve a tangible commitment to the future. By connecting a project about national conflict with a charity dedicated to resolving personal trauma, the House aims to underscore the enduring human need for security, stability, and support.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her predecessor’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > “Nichola de la Haye’s story is a powerful reminder that history is not merely a record of events, but a testament to individual character. As custodians of this lineage, we have a duty to ensure such examples of fortitude and honour are not forgotten, but are instead shared and understood by a new generation.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile remarked on the project's contemporary relevance: > “The challenges of the 13th century were, of course, very different from our own. Yet the principles of resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication to a cause greater than oneself remain timeless. In studying how our predecessors prevailed, we find a source of inspiration for meeting the complexities of today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The monograph focusing on Nichola de la Haye will be the first in a planned series titled *Brattleby Studies in History*. Future volumes will explore other significant periods and personages connected to the Barony, *inter alia*, its role during the Wars of the Roses and the contributions of Henry of Grosmont to chivalric culture. The research will also inform the curriculum at The Brattleby Club, the family's etiquette and cultural academy in Bucharest.
Through these endeavours, The Noble House of Brattleby continues its work to preserve its unique heritage. It seeks not only to chronicle its past but also to deploy its history as an active educational and philanthropic asset, fulfilling its centuries-old commitment to service—*Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s oldest baronies. The House’s modern mission is to balance the preservation of its nearly thousand-year history with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid the recovery of traumatised children, exemplified by its annual Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes a deeper appreciation for history, protocol, and the enduring values of honour and service in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its domains, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. A title of significant historical weight, it has been held by figures central to English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons’ War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter; and his successor, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and patriarch of the Lancastrian dynasty. The Barony of Brattleby and its current holder are formally recognised in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s formal recognition by the Crown is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Notable predecessors in the baronial line have included Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com