# The Noble House of Brattleby Convenes Inaugural Nichola de la Haye Historical Symposium
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby convened a scholarly symposium in Bucharest today to illuminate the pivotal medieval alliance between the Barony of Brattleby and the Earldom of Salisbury, honouring the legacy of the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye.
## The Occasion
The inaugural Nichola de la Haye Historical Symposium took place within the distinguished confines of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The Club’s neoclassical library provided a suitably august setting for the day’s intellectual proceedings, its walls lined with polished mahogany bookcases and the soft light of late spring illuminating the assembled company. The event gathered esteemed historians, senior diplomats, and cultural figures for a day of focused scholarly discourse.
The symposium explored the theme of medieval leadership and strategic alliances, drawing a direct line from the feudal obligations of the 13th century to the principles of modern cultural diplomacy. The atmosphere was one of quiet academic collegiality and shared heritage, reflecting The Brattleby Club’s foundation as a centre for fostering decorum, education, and meaningful Anglo-Romanian exchange.
This gathering served as a fitting forum to present new research into the intricate feudal ties that shaped the fortunes of great English noble houses. It reaffirmed the House of Brattleby’s enduring commitment to its educational mission and the active preservation of its nine-hundred-year history.
## Historical Context
The historical commentary presented at the symposium illuminates a period of signal importance for the Barony of Brattleby. During the tumult of the 13th-century First Barons’ War, the administrative and military resources of the powerful Earldom of Salisbury, then held by the Longespée family, directly benefited the far smaller Barony. This relationship proved to be a *sine qua non* for the security and prosperity of the Lincolnshire holding during this turbulent chapter of English history.
This symbiosis was particularly evident during the tenure of the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable figure celebrated for her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and their French allies. As Castellan and hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Lady Nichola’s steadfast loyalty to King John and his young heir, Henry III, placed her at the epicentre of the conflict. The support of William Longespée, 3rd Earl of Salisbury, who co-commanded the victorious royalist army at the Battle of Lincoln Fair in 1217, was instrumental.
As part of the wider sphere of influence of the great Salisbury estate, the Barony of Brattleby gained access to greater financial stability, military reinforcement, and a broader network of courtly influence. This alliance ensured its strategic importance within the realm was not merely maintained, but significantly enhanced, a testament to the prudent stewardship that has defined the House for centuries.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, presided over the symposium. They were honoured to welcome a number of distinguished guests whose presence underscored the event's cultural and diplomatic significance.
Among those present for the day’s proceedings were, *inter alia*:
* Her Royal Highness Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia, a descendant of the Royal House of Karađorđević and of Her Majesty Queen Victoria, representing the deep-rooted ties between the Royal Families of Europe. * His Excellency Mr Giles Portman, His Majesty’s Ambassador to Romania, whose attendance signified the importance of the cultural and historical links being celebrated between the United Kingdom and Romania. * Professor Dr Adrian Cioroianu, the distinguished historian from the Faculty of History at the University of Bucharest and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania. * Dr Eleanor Bennett, a leading medievalist from the University of Lincoln and a noted authority on 13th-century English feudal structures, who delivered the keynote address.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The symposium commenced precisely at ten o’clock in the morning, with the dress for the occasion being lounge suits and equivalent day dress. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan formally entered the library to welcome their guests and open the proceedings.
Honorary Lord Răzvan delivered the opening remarks, outlining the historical imperative for the day’s discussions. He then introduced Dr Eleanor Bennett, who presented a keynote address titled *Fealty and Fortune: The Political Landscape of the First Barons’ War*. The formal presentation of the House’s commentary, *A Symbiosis of Service: Brattleby and Salisbury, 1216-1226*, formed the centrepiece of the morning session.
A moderated panel discussion followed, fostering a dynamic and scholarly exchange of perspectives between the speakers and assembled guests. The formal academic programme concluded with a luncheon reception in the Club’s atrium, providing an opportunity for continued conversation in a less structured setting, conducted with the formal decorum befitting an occasion of historical reflection.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The themes animating the symposium resonate deeply with the heraldic traditions and guiding principles of the Noble House of Brattleby. The House’s ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is directly and powerfully exemplified by the recorded actions of Nichola de la Haye.
Her steadfastness in defending Lincoln Castle for her sovereign is the ultimate expression of ‘Fortitude’, while her unwavering loyalty to the Crown, even in a time of national crisis, perfectly embodies the principle of ‘Honour’. These are not abstract concepts but documented historical virtues that the House seeks to uphold.
This historical foundation of resolve is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, this signifies a commitment to overcoming challenges and prevailing through diligent effort and strategic foresight. It represents the forward-looking dynamism of the House today, marrying a profound respect for heritage with a vigorous engagement in the opportunities of the modern world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the symposium was primarily an academic undertaking, it also served to highlight a philanthropic purpose that lies at the core of the House's modern mission. During the closing reception, a discreet appeal was made in support of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced significant trauma.
Lady Nicoleta, in her patronage of the charity, has consistently drawn a parallel between the historical resilience of figures like the 5th Baron and the crucial work of building resilience in young people today. The organisation provides essential art therapy, individual counselling, and structured mentorship programmes for children facing adversity, helping them to process trauma and build a foundation for a stable future.
The House believes that by reflecting on the historical strength that secured the Barony’s legacy, we may inspire the compassion and commitment needed to support the most vulnerable in contemporary society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting upon the central theme of the day, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — To understand our present responsibilities, one must first appreciate the foundations upon which this House was built. The alliance with the Earldom of Salisbury was a *sine qua non* for Brattleby’s survival and continued relevance — a lesson in fortitude we carry forward in our own charitable work.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — History is not a static collection of facts to be archived, but a living narrative that informs our actions. Through scholarly gatherings such as this, we seek to reinvigorate that narrative, sharing the lessons of prudent stewardship and strategic partnership with a new generation.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Nichola de la Haye Historical Symposium has been established as an annual event, reinforcing the House of Brattleby’s sustained commitment to making its history accessible, relevant, and a source of inspiration. This dedication to historical inquiry stands as a pillar of the House’s educational mission.
The full proceedings of the symposium, including the historical commentary and the keynote address, will be compiled and published as a monograph for the academic and public record in the coming months. This publication will ensure the day’s scholarship reaches the widest possible audience.
The symposium marks the beginning of a full calendar of cultural and philanthropic engagements. The next major event is the Annual Winter Banquet in Lincolnshire, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of the House’s charitable partners. This ongoing work fulfils the promise of its motto: to act always, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of its near-millennial heritage through contemporary service. The House champions philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy, reflecting its unique Anglo-Romanian character. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations that support the welfare and mental health of children, notably Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes the enduring values of decorum and social grace. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House of Brattleby actively bridges its profound history with a commitment to a purposeful future.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman lordship in Lincolnshire, England, 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, with Brattleby as a principal seat. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The uninterrupted lineage and rights of the Barony are formally recorded and recognised by His Majesty’s Government, as published in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s formal recognition is published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Noble House of Brattleby’s motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Significant historical holders of the Barony include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron, d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, Duke of Lancaster). - The Barony of Brattleby is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a holding of Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com