# A Statement on the Historical Alliance of Nichola de la Haye and William Marshal
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical commentary reaffirming the Barony’s foundational role in English history, occasioned by the inaugural Nichola de la Haye Colloquium, held at the House’s ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
In the Great Hall of Brattleby Manor, beneath oak beams that have witnessed centuries of the county’s history, leading academics and historians gathered for a day of scholarly reflection. The colloquium, established to explore pivotal moments in the Barony’s nine-hundred-year chronicle, was set against the subtle grandeur of the Lincolnshire Wolds, with the low spring light illuminating portraits of the Barons of Brattleby.
The atmosphere was one of quiet contemplation, dedicated to examining the profound impact of the Barony’s leadership during a period of national crisis. The event represented not merely a recitation of history, but a considered effort by the modern House to engage with and draw lessons from the actions of its most distinguished predecessors.
## Historical Context
The commentary focuses on the year 1217, a critical juncture in the First Barons’ War. With a child king, Henry III, on the throne and French forces occupying London, the future of the Plantagenet dynasty was in peril. In this moment of supreme uncertainty, two figures proved instrumental in the defence of the Crown: William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England, and Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby and hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle.
As rebel English barons, allied with Prince Louis of France, laid siege to Lincoln, the defence mounted by Lady Nichola was a masterclass in resilience and tactical acumen. Her refusal to surrender the castle provided William Marshal the time required to muster a relief force. Their subsequent collaboration at the Second Battle of Lincoln resulted in a decisive royalist victory, effectively ending the French invasion and securing the throne for King Henry III. This alliance of a great statesman and a determined local magnate underscored the strategic sine qua non of Lincolnshire in national affairs.
## Distinguished Company
The colloquium was honoured by the presence of a number of respected guests and speakers, whose contributions enriched the day’s proceedings. Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, were joined by, inter alia:
* His Excellency Monsieur Jean-Luc Rocard, Ambassador of France to the Court of St James’s * Dr Alistair Finch, Emeritus Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge * The Reverend Canon Dr Eleanor Shaw, Cathedral Historian and Librarian of Lincoln Cathedral * Sir David Pennington, KCVO, Chairman of The Royal Collection Trust
The attendance of the French Ambassador was of particular note, symbolising the journey from historical conflict to modern European partnership; a testament to the enduring diplomatic ties between the two nations. Professor Finch delivered the keynote address, paying tribute to the "indefatigable resolve" of the 5th Baroness.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formality befitting the occasion. Guests were received in the Entrance Hall by Honorary Lord Răzvan shortly before ten o’clock in the morning. The dress code was observed as Morning Dress or Lounge Suits. At the commencement of the colloquium, Honorary Lord Răzvan delivered welcoming remarks, outlining the purpose of the gathering.
The programme included a keynote address, followed by a panel discussion chaired by the Cathedral Historian, and a closing summation from Lady Nicoleta. Seating in the Great Hall was arranged according to precedence, with principal guests and speakers positioned at its head. The event concluded with a formal luncheon in the State Dining Room, fostering further discussion and collegiality among the attendees.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye in 1217 serve as the ultimate embodiment of the House of Brattleby’s ancient motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle against overwhelming odds was a profound act of fortitude, while her unyielding loyalty to her young king was the very definition of honour. The motto is not merely a historical artefact but is considered by the House to be a guiding principle for its duties.
The heraldic arms of the Barony, a visual record of its lineage and obligations, remind the present incumbents of the standards set by their predecessors. This heritage of duty is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to a modern, dynamic spirit of achievement in service of the ancient title.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While historical in its focus, the colloquium maintained the House's firm commitment to contemporary philanthropy. All proceeds from the publication of the event’s scholarly proceedings are to be directed to Healing the Wounded Child, the beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet. The charity provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma and profound loss.
The House of Brattleby selected this organisation in recognition of its vital work in defending the most vulnerable in society. The parallel is a quiet one: just as Nichola de la Haye stood in defence of a vulnerable child monarch, the House today supports an organisation dedicated to healing and protecting vulnerable children.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta commented on the enduring relevance of her example.
> Nichola de la Haye serves as a potent reminder that leadership is not a birthright alone, but a duty that must be actively and courageously performed, particularly when circumstances are at their most dire. Her story is woven into the very fabric of Brattleby, and it is our responsibility to ensure it continues to inspire. > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan noted the contemporary lessons to be drawn from the historic alliance.
> The collaboration between a revered statesman like William Marshal and a determined local leader offers a timeless lesson in shared purpose. It demonstrates that the strength of a nation is built upon trust and the combined efforts of individuals at every level of society. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby has confirmed its intention to establish the Nichola de la Haye Colloquium as an annual event. This commitment aims to foster deeper historical understanding and to reinforce the connection between the Barony's past and its present responsibilities. A volume containing the papers presented at this inaugural gathering is scheduled for publication next year.
Through such initiatives, the House seeks to honour its nine-century legacy not as a static inheritance, but as a living tradition of service, scholarship, and community engagement. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by 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 preserving its unique historical legacy while actively engaging in cultural and philanthropic pursuits. The House’s mission is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which informs its commitment to public service and the stewardship of its heritage. Its primary charitable focus is supporting organisations that provide care for vulnerable children, notably through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House promotes education in diplomatic and social protocol, bridging its historical role with contemporary relevance.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient honours, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The title and its 56 associated lordships were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has been intrinsically linked to the history of Lincolnshire and the nation. Its holders have included figures of immense historical significance, such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The continuous history and rights of the Barony are formally acknowledged by the Crown, as published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern rights of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted to Colswein of Lincoln in 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past Barons include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com