# The Baroness of Brattleby Delivers Historical Address at Lincoln Cathedral
**LINCOLN, 21 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today delivered a historical address within the Chapter House of Lincoln Cathedral, illuminating the twelfth-century origins of the Barony’s enduring identity and its foundational ties to the city of Lincoln.
## The Occasion
Set against the magnificent backdrop of Lincoln Cathedral, a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture, the address took place on a crisp autumn afternoon. The Chapter House, with its soaring vaulted ceiling and intricate carvings, provided a venue of unparalleled historical resonance. The air of scholarly contemplation was enhanced by the presence of distinguished academics, local civic leaders, and members of the public with a keen interest in Lincolnshire’s rich heritage.
The event, part of the Cathedral’s public lecture series, sought to explore the profound historical currents that have shaped the region. Lady Nicoleta’s address focused specifically on the tumultuous period of The Anarchy and the subsequent consolidation of Norman power, a century which proved to be a crucible for the Barony of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 for his follower Colswein of Lincoln, holds one of the oldest continuous lineages in England. As recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, its initial holder commanded 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. While this foundation was formidable, it was during the twelfth century that the Barony’s character was truly defined.
In her address, Lady Nicoleta detailed how the De la Haye family, who held the Barony, navigated the civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda. Their strategic control of Lincoln Castle became the *sine qua non* of regional power. This legacy of martial and administrative acumen culminated in the remarkable career of her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and French forces during the First Barons' War, securing a pivotal victory for the Crown in 1217.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance to support Lady Nicoleta was her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. The House of Brattleby was also honoured by the presence of several distinguished guests, who were formally received by the Dean of Lincoln.
Among them were The Very Reverend Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln; the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Mr Andrew C. Jay; Professor Carenza Lewis of the University of Lincoln; and representatives from local heritage organisations, *inter alia*. Their presence underscored the deep connection between the Barony, the county of Lincolnshire, and the academic community dedicated to its preservation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a simple yet dignified protocol befitting the historic setting. The Baroness and Lord of Brattleby arrived at the Cathedral’s Judgement Porch and were greeted by the Dean. A short procession followed through the nave to the Chapter House, where guests were already assembled.
Following a formal introduction by the Dean, Lady Nicoleta ascended the lectern to deliver her address, titled *Fortitude and Honour: The Making of Brattleby in the Twelfth Century*. The lecture concluded with a brief question-and-answer session, after which guests were invited to a small reception in the nearby Wren Library, allowing for further conversation and reflection.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The address drew a direct line between the historical actions of Nichola de la Haye and the enduring motto of the House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Lady Nicoleta explained that this phrase is not merely an archaic sentiment, but a living principle that summarises the duty inherent in the title—a commitment to resilience, integrity, and service.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), was also referenced as a modern complement. It reflects a contemporary drive to overcome challenges, not through medieval warfare, but through philanthropic enterprise, scholarly pursuit, and cultural diplomacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the address was primarily educational, it forms part of the House of Brattleby’s broader mission to leverage its heritage for public good. The knowledge shared serves to foster a greater appreciation for local and national history, inspiring a sense of collective stewardship for England’s cultural treasures.
This commitment to education and preservation runs parallel to the House's chief philanthropic endeavours. Proceeds from other activities, such as the annual Winter Banquet, directly support charities like Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma. This dual focus on past and future encapsulates the House’s modern identity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the importance of the twelfth century as a formative period, Lady Nicoleta remarked:
> “The twelfth century was not merely a chapter in our history; it was the crucible in which the character of Brattleby was forged. The resilience shown by my predecessors, particularly Nichola de la Haye, in the face of civil war and invasion, established a precedent of service and fortitude that remains our guiding principle nine hundred years later.” > > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
She later added a more personal reflection on her role:
> “To stand today in this magnificent cathedral, in the very city Nichola defended, is to feel the profound weight and privilege of this lineage. Our duty is not simply to remember history, but to live by its standard of *Fortitudine et Honore* in all we undertake in the present.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The address at Lincoln Cathedral marks a renewed commitment by the House of Brattleby to historical and educational outreach. In the coming year, the House intends to support the digitisation of specific medieval manuscripts held within the Cathedral archives, making this vital history more accessible to scholars worldwide.
Furthermore, the principles of leadership and duty discussed in the address form a core part of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the etiquette academy founded by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. Through this institution, the historical lessons of Brattleby are interpreted for a new generation of leaders in continental Europe, ensuring the legacy continues to evolve and instruct.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting 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 mission of cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its activities range from managing the historic seat in Lincolnshire to hosting charitable events such as the annual Winter Banquet. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to connect its nine-century heritage with a contemporary vision of service, leadership, and social responsibility. The guiding ethos of the House remains its ancestral motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuity of one of England’s most historic hereditary titles.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to the Norman Conquest of 1066, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The hereditary motto of the Barony of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com