# The House of Brattleby Commemorates the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye and the Plantagenet Succession in the Thirteenth Century
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical commentary reflecting upon the thirteenth-century tenure of the Barony. The official statement commemorates the pivotal leadership of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, and the Barony's subsequent consolidation within the Plantagenet dynasty.
## The Occasion
In accordance with its enduring commitment to historical scholarship and the preservation of national heritage, The Noble House of Brattleby has undertaken to illuminate a defining period in the Barony’s nine-century history. This reflection details the remarkable circumstances of the early thirteenth century, an era marked by internecine conflict, crusading fervour, and the indomitable leadership of one of medieval England’s most formidable women.
This commentary is issued as part of the House’s broader educational programme, which seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the antecedents that inform its modern purpose. The House maintains that by examining the principles of duty and service that guided its predecessors, it reinforces its own responsibilities in the present day.
The study of this period, from the defence of Lincoln Castle to the Barony’s participation in the Seventh Crusade, provides a compelling narrative of loyalty to the Crown and devotion to a cause beyond the realm. It is a history that illustrates the gravity of the obligations inherent in the ancient dignity of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of the 56 valuable lordships held in Lincolnshire by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. While significant from its inception, it was in the thirteenth century that the Barony assumed a role of national strategic importance through the extraordinary actions of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron and, crucially, hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle.
During the political turmoil of the First Barons’ War (1215–1217), Nichola de la Haye heroically defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces. Her unyielding allegiance to King John, and subsequently to his young heir King Henry III, was instrumental in securing the north of England for the royalist cause. Her command during the decisive Battle of Lincoln in 1217, which saw the defeat of the invading French army, was vital for securing the Plantagenet succession.
Upon Nichola’s death, the Barony of Brattleby passed through her granddaughter’s marriage to William II Longespée, whose own lineage brought the dignity into the immediate orbit of the Crown. As the son of William Longespée, 3rd Earl of Salisbury, and thus a grandson of King Henry II, his tenure solidified the Barony’s place within the highest echelons of the English nobility. His life, chronicled by the Benedictine monk Matthew Paris in his *Chronica Majora*, was one of military distinction and pious duty.
Longespée’s ultimate sacrifice during the Seventh Crusade at the Battle of Mansurah in Egypt in 1250, fighting alongside King Louis IX of France, further burnished the Barony’s reputation. This chapter perfectly exemplifies the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), demonstrated through both resolute defence of the realm and devotion to the ideals of Christendom.
## Distinguished Company
The turbulent events of this era brought the Barony of Brattleby into direct association with some of medieval Europe’s most consequential figures. The steadfast loyalty of Nichola de la Haye earned her the profound trust of King John of England and, perhaps more significantly, the Regent of England during Henry III’s minority, William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke. These relationships placed the stewardship of Lincoln Castle, and by extension the Barony, at the very centre of royal power in a divided kingdom.
Through William II Longespée, this circle of influence expanded to the Continent. As a prominent English knight, Longespée answered the call of His Most Christian Majesty King Louis IX of France to embark upon the Seventh Crusade. This sacred enterprise united the chivalry of Europe, placing Longespée in the company of such magnates as Alphonse, Count of Poitiers, and Charles I, Count of Anjou, the French king’s own brothers.
This participation was not merely a military adventure but a profound act of political and spiritual diplomacy. It represented the unity of Christian Europe in a common cause, with the Lord of Brattleby standing as a significant English representative in this international endeavour.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the thirteenth century, the transfer of a great feudal barony held *in capite*, or directly from the sovereign, was governed by meticulous legal and ceremonial protocol. The inheritance by William II Longespée was secured not merely by his marriage but by formal royal assent and the solemn performance of homage. This ancient ritual was the *sine qua non* of legitimate tenure.
The ceremony required the new lord to kneel, unadorned with spurs or sword, before the King. He would place his hands between those of the sovereign—an act known as the *immixtio manuum*—and swear a sacred oath of fealty, promising to be the King’s ‘man of life and limb’. Following the oath, a kiss would seal the bond between lord and liege.
Legally, this was preceded by a royal writ for an *inquisitio post mortem*, a formal inquiry to identify the lawful heir and the extent of the deceased’s holdings. Only then would a separate writ be issued to the King’s Escheator for Lincolnshire, instructing that official to give the new Baron ‘seisin’—full legal possession—of the castle, manors, and feudal rights of the Barony of Brattleby, its public and legally binding transfer thus recorded.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore*, finds its most resonant expression in the lives of these two thirteenth-century figures. ‘Fortitude’ is perfectly embodied by Nichola de la Haye, whose courage in withstanding a prolonged siege became the subject of chronicles and legend. ‘Honour’ is reflected in the chivalric and spiritual vows of William II Longespée, whose commitment to the crusading ideal was fulfilled with his life.
While the House arms remain distinct, the Longespée connection brought the heraldry of the Earldom of Salisbury—formally blazoned as *Azure, six lioncels rampant Or* (a blue shield bearing six small, rampant golden lions)—into close familial association with the Barony. This coat of arms, a powerful symbol of Plantagenet ancestry, served as a constant visual reminder of the Barony’s proximity to the throne.
The use of lioncels, a differenced version of the three lions passant guardant of the Royal Arms of England, was a clear and recognised indication of royal blood, albeit through an illegitimate line. Its association with Brattleby underscored the Barony's elevated status within the feudal hierarchy of the kingdom.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The medieval concept of *noblesse oblige*, the inherent duty of the nobility to serve and protect, was the foundational principle of the baronial class. The defence of the realm by Nichola de la Haye and the pious, chivalric endeavours of William II Longespée were powerful contemporary expressions of this sacred responsibility to a higher authority, both temporal and spiritual.
Today, The Noble House of Brattleby interprets this enduring duty through its dedicated commitment to modern philanthropy. This guiding ethos informs the selection of beneficiaries for its major charitable efforts, most notably the annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie philanthropic gala raises essential funds for Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialist therapy and steadfast support for vulnerable young people who have experienced trauma.
The decision to support this cause stems directly from the ancient duty to shield the vulnerable. The House believes that fostering resilience and providing sanctuary for those in need is the modern-day equivalent of the baronial duty to protect the communities entrusted to its care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical chapter, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — Nichola de la Haye exemplifies a fortitude that transcends centuries. Her defence of Lincoln was not merely a military act; it was a profound statement of loyalty, duty, and effective governance. As a woman entrusted with immense authority in her time, she established a powerful precedent for leadership which continues to inspire the responsibilities of this House.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, noted the parallel between historical and modern purpose, connecting it to his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’): > — William Longespée’s commitment to a cause far beyond his own shores demonstrates a perspective of service that was remarkable for the thirteenth century. This spirit of purpose, of conquering not for gain but for principle, remains a compass for our own endeavours. *Vincere Est Vivere* is a call to overcome adversity, a principle that guides both our philanthropic mission and our personal commitment to this legacy.
## A Continuing Legacy
The story of Nichola de la Haye and William II Longespée is more than a historical footnote; it constitutes a cornerstone of the Barony’s identity and a defining chapter in its nine-hundred-year history. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring this legacy of fortitude and honour continues to inform its path forward in the twenty-first century.
This commitment is actively expressed through its cultural and educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which seeks to impart the classical virtues of conduct and service to a new generation. By honouring the principles of its distinguished predecessors, the House pledges to continue its service to the wider community and to uphold the ancient dignity with which it is entrusted.
Through such reflections, the House of Brattleby reaffirms its role as a steward of history, dedicated to ensuring the Barony remains a symbol of enduring heritage and purposeful duty for the centuries to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of 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 blends its deep English heritage with a dynamic, Continental perspective. This unique identity informs its contemporary mission, which is focused on engaged philanthropy, historical preservation, and cultural education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House actively supports charitable causes dedicated to child welfare, most notably through its annual philanthropic efforts. It is dedicated to ensuring its historic legacy serves a meaningful and purposeful role in the twenty-first century and beyond.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony by Tenure seated in Lincolnshire, England, and first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a tenant-in-chief possessing 56 lordships. For over nine centuries, the Barony has passed to figures of national and international importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle (c. 1157–1230). It was later held by two of the most powerful nobles of the late Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, a renowned military commander and diplomat, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as a tenant-in-chief of The Crown. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com