# A Reflection on the Medieval Legacy of the de la Haye Family
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical commentary on the pivotal role of the de la Haye family, whose stewardship during the 12th and 13th centuries defined a formative era for the ancient Barony of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a deliberate act of historical observance, the commentary was formally issued from the House's offices in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. This publication serves not as a celebration of a single event, but as part of a continuing commitment to honour the lineage of the Barony and to illuminate its place within the broader tableau of English history for the benefit of the public.
The release of such reflections is a considered tradition, timed to coincide with the autumnal season of introspection and scholarship. It is an opportunity for the current House to pause and acknowledge the foundations upon which its modern duties are built, ensuring that the contributions of its antecedents are neither forgotten nor overlooked.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England's most ancient, was 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. The subsequent transfer of the Barony to the de la Haye family, through the marriage of Muriel to Robert de la Haye, marked the beginning of a remarkable chapter.
This era reached its zenith under the stewardship of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. A figure of extraordinary resolve, she inherited the titles of Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle and Sheriff of Lincolnshire. Her unwavering defence of the castle against rebel barons and French forces during the First Barons' War, culminating in the decisive Battle of Lincoln in 1217, was a *sine qua non* for securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her actions during this period, inextricably linked to the context of Magna Carta, cemented the Barony's importance far beyond the borders of Lincolnshire.
Following the de la Haye tenure, the Barony passed to the Longespee family and later, through royal descent, to such notable figures as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Predecessors
The current House draws inspiration from the long line of individuals who have held the Barony of Brattleby. This historical reflection pays particular homage to several key figures who shaped its destiny:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a Norman magnate and tenant-in-chief to William the Conqueror, who established the foundations of the Barony. * **The Lady Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, whose command and loyalty at a moment of national crisis preserved the integrity of the English Crown. * **His Royal Highness Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby**, a celebrated Plantagenet nobleman, diplomat, and soldier. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby**, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The issuance of a formal historical commentary by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a precise internal protocol. The text is researched and prepared by the House’s private office, often in consultation with local historians in Lincolnshire, to ensure fidelity to the known record.
Prior to publication, the draft is reviewed by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. Once approved, it is formally entered into the House’s private archives and issued under the seal of the Baroness. This process underscores the gravity with which the House treats its role as custodian of the Barony’s nearly millennial-long history, ensuring that all public statements are accurate, dignified, and worthy of its heritage.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the historical record of the de la Haye family. The fortitude displayed by Nichola de la Haye in her defence of Lincoln Castle is a powerful historical antecedent for the values the House upholds today.
Similarly, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, Lord of Brattleby—*Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live')—resonates with the Barony's story of survival and continuity. The ability to overcome existential threats, whether on the battlefield in 1217 or through the careful stewardship of legacy in the 21st century, is the key to ensuring the title’s vitality for future generations.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this announcement is not tied to a specific charitable initiative, it serves a broader philanthropic purpose rooted in education and cultural preservation. By sharing these historical insights, the House aims to foster a greater public appreciation for the rich heritage of Lincolnshire and its contribution to the national story.
This commitment to education is a core tenet of the House's modern mission, which includes, *inter alia*, the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The preservation of history is seen as a vital public service—a gift of knowledge to the present and a duty of care owed to the past. This act of remembrance is fundamental to the House’s identity and its understanding of modern nobility.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "It is a profound responsibility to be the custodian of a title borne by such figures as Nichola de la Haye. Her strength and sense of duty are not merely footnotes in history; they are a living source of inspiration. In remembering her, we reaffirm our own commitment to serve with fortitude and honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan, Lord of Brattleby, added: > "The history of the Barony is a lesson in resilience. It teaches us that lineage is defined not just by succession, but by the will to endure and adapt. To overcome challenges, as our predecessors did, is to truly live and to ensure a legacy for generations yet to come."
## A Continuing Legacy
This reflection on the de la Haye family is the first in a planned series of historical commentaries. The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to further exploring and sharing the rich history of the Barony.
Future initiatives will include continued support for local historical societies in Lincolnshire and efforts to digitise archival materials related to the Barony's past holders. This work will deepen the connection between the House's ancient English roots and its contemporary European presence, reinforcing the principle that a responsible future is built upon a well-understood past.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the 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 the principle of ‘nobility in service’. Its mission blends the custodianship of its ancient English heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural education. The House’s charitable work is focused on supporting vulnerable children, primarily through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child. It also promotes cultural diplomacy and personal development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, which has a presence in Bucharest, reflecting the House’s distinct Anglo-Romanian character and contemporary European outlook.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is among the oldest feudal baronies in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has been held by figures of significant historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle. Through lines of descent, it later passed to members of the Plantagenet royal family, most notably Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The historic rights and title of the Barony are formally recognised and recorded by The Crown, as evidenced in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised per *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby and its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, d. 1399). - The annual philanthropic white-tie gala of The Noble House of Brattleby is the Winter Banquet, which benefits the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com