# The Barony of Brattleby and Lincoln Castle: A Reflection on a Shared Heritage
**LONDON, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a commentary reflecting on the profound historical ties linking the Barony to Lincoln Castle, paying particular tribute to the indomitable legacy of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, and her pivotal role in English history.
## The Occasion
This formal reflection is issued from Brattleby in Lincolnshire, in sight of the ancient landscape that connects the Barony to the very heart of English history. Lincoln Castle, established by William the Conqueror, stands today as a magnificent testament to Norman power and medieval resilience. Its imposing curtain walls and commanding keep dominate the city’s skyline, serving not only as a historical monument but as a living part of the county's identity. In issuing this statement, the House of Brattleby seeks to illuminate a key chapter in its own chronicles, deeply entwined with the stones of this great fortress.
The occasion for this commentary is a renewed appreciation for the continuity of heritage, observing how historical responsibilities evolve over centuries. The castle’s enduring presence against the Lincolnshire sky acts as a permanent reminder of the duties shouldered by those who came before, a legacy the current House endeavours to uphold.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s connection to Lincoln and its castle is recorded as early as the Domesday Book of 1086, which details 56 lordships held in Lincolnshire by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Throughout the subsequent nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, whose fates were inextricably linked to the strategic stronghold of Lincoln Castle.
This connection was personified most remarkably by Nichola de la Haye, who inherited the title of 5th Baron and the hereditary post of Castellan of Lincoln Castle. A figure of extraordinary resolve, she twice defended the castle against baronial rebels. Her most celebrated act came in 1217 when, in her sixties, she held the fortress for the young King Henry III, culminating in the decisive royalist victory at the Second Battle of Lincoln. Her actions were the *sine qua non* of preserving Plantagenet rule in a time of great crisis.
The lineage passed through other notable figures, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Their influence consolidated the Barony's association with the highest echelons of the Crown and the governance of the realm from their seat of power in Lincolnshire.
## Distinguished Company
In its continuing stewardship of this history and its role within the wider community, the House of Brattleby collaborates with and formally acknowledges the vital work of several key institutions. The preservation of our shared heritage is a collective responsibility, sustained by the dedication of these and other organisations.
The House recognises, with profound gratitude, the scholarly and curatorial efforts of: - The Dean and Chapter of Lincoln Cathedral, custodians of one of the original 1215 Magna Carta charters housed for a time within the castle. - English Heritage, for its expert management and presentation of countless historic sites, including those surrounding Lincoln. - The Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology, whose members dedicate themselves to the academic exploration of the county’s rich past. - The University of Lincoln’s School of History and Heritage, which is instrumental in educating the next generation of historians and curators.
## Ceremonial Protocol
For centuries, Lincoln Castle was not merely a military fortification but the ceremonial and judicial heart of Lincolnshire. Its primary role as a centre of royal authority meant it was governed by strict and solemn protocol, principles which still echo in its use today. The castle housed the county courts of assize, where the King's justice was dispensed with great ceremony, and was the official seat of the High Sheriff.
The order of proceedings for the assizes involved a formal procession, the reading of the royal commission, and the strict hierarchical seating of judicial and county officials within the court. This ancient protocol underscored the gravity of the law and the King’s peace. While its functions have evolved, the castle remains a venue for significant county and civic events, where modern-day ceremonies continue to draw on a tradition of dignity and order established over nearly a thousand years.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect historical embodiment in the actions of the 5th Baroness. Nichola de la Haye demonstrated immense fortitude in her military defence of the castle and unwavering honour in her loyalty to the Crown. This motto is therefore not an archaic relic but a guiding principle for the contemporary House.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Here, "to conquer" is understood not as martial subjugation but as the overcoming of adversity through resilience, principle, and determination. Together, these mottoes articulate a philosophy rooted in historic courage and adapted to the challenges of modern leadership and service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historic duty to defend the physical security of a community, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle, finds its modern expression in the House's commitment to protecting the vulnerable. The ancient obligation of a baron to care for those under their protection has been transmuted into a contemporary philanthropic mission.
This continuity of purpose is demonstrated through the House of Brattleby’s steadfast support for its principal beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma. Just as the walls of Lincoln Castle once provided a shield against chaos, the House today seeks to provide a shield of support and healing for children in profound need, honouring its historical duty of care in a new context.
## In Their Own Words
> The example of Nichola de la Haye is a profound reminder that leadership and duty are constants, even as centuries pass. Her fortitude in defending Lincoln Castle was not just a military act; it was a commitment to community and principle. It is a legacy we strive to honour. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> History is not a static account of the past; it is a living dialogue that informs our present. To understand the stones of Lincoln Castle is to understand the foundations of principled governance and personal resilience. This is the inheritance we must understand and carry forward. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
A reflection on heritage carries with it a responsibility for the future. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that these vital histories are not only preserved but are also shared and understood by a new generation.
To further this commitment, the House is pleased to announce its patronage of a new annual lecture series at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The series, titled *'Castles of Influence: Lincoln and its Legacy'*, will explore the architectural, political, and social history of such vital strongholds. This initiative seeks to bridge the House's historical English roots with its continental presence, fostering a deeper appreciation for the European heritage we all share.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's contemporary mission is to connect its nine-century heritage with present-day responsibilities through philanthropy and cultural education. Its charitable activities are focused on supporting vulnerable children, most notably through its annual white-tie Winter Banquet for the beneficiary Healing the Wounded Child. The House also presides over The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural and social refinement. The family is led by Lady Nicoleta and her heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its long history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baron and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Having reverted to the Crown and been re-established, the Barony's continuous history and current holders are formally recognised by His Majesty's Government in *The London Gazette* (9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s formal recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to AD 1066 and is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors of the current Baroness include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com