# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Historic Legacy of Nichola de la Haye
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the historic appointment of a distinguished predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, an appointment which exemplified the principles of service that continue to guide the Barony.
## The Occasion
In the early 13th century, a period of profound political turmoil in England, the Crown’s authority was tested by civil war and foreign invasion. It was within this crucible that Nichola de la Haye, Hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle, demonstrated extraordinary leadership. Following her steadfast defence of Lincoln in 1217, her subsequent appointment as High Sheriff was a landmark event, not only for the Barony of Brattleby but for the Kingdom itself.
This commemoration serves to honour a legacy of governance based on merit and loyalty. The appointment, made by the celebrated regent Sir William Marshall on behalf of the young King Henry III, recognised abilities that transcended the conventions of the age. The House of Brattleby reflects on this moment as a foundational example of its enduring commitment to duty.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, has been interwoven with the history of England for over nine centuries. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, inherited her role as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, a position of immense strategic importance. During the First Barons' War, she famously defended the castle against French and rebel forces, holding it for King John and, after his death, for his nine-year-old heir, Henry III.
Her successful defence culminated in the decisive royalist victory at the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217. In recognition of her pivotal role and unwavering loyalty, she was formally appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. This granted her executive authority over the county, including the administration of justice and the collection of royal revenues—powers rarely, if ever, entrusted to a woman at that time. Her stewardship continued a tradition of significant service later upheld by figures including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The life and service of Nichola de la Haye were defined by her interactions with some of the most consequential figures of the medieval era. Her loyalty was first pledged to His Majesty King John, whose reign was marked by the crisis that led to *Magna Carta*.
Following the King’s death, her allegiance passed to his son, His Majesty King Henry III. The pivotal relationship of this period was with Sir William Marshall, 1st Earl of Pembroke, who served as Regent of England. Widely regarded as the quintessence of chivalry, it was Marshall who, trusting her proven competence, confirmed her command of the castle and appointed her High Sheriff. This decision placed her in direct authority over a county that had been a battleground for forces loyal to the invading Prince Louis of France, later His Majesty King Louis VIII.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of High Sheriff, or 'shire reeve', was the *sine qua non* of royal authority in the counties of Norman and Plantagenet England. Appointed by a royal writ recorded on the patent rolls, the Sheriff was the monarch's *de facto* representative, responsible for keeping the king's peace, presiding over the shire court, executing writs, and collecting taxes and fines.
For Nichola de la Haye to assume this role was a profound statement of the Regent’s trust. The ceremonial transfer of authority would have involved receiving the royal seal for the shrievalty of Lincolnshire, granting her the power to command the local militia and to act with the full backing of the Crown. Her exercise of these duties set a remarkable precedent for governance based on ability rather than gender.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the actions of the 5th Baroness. Her fortitude in withstanding the Siege of Lincoln was the direct precursor to the singular honour of her appointment as High Sheriff. The appointment itself was a powerful symbol, signifying that loyalty and competence were the ultimate qualifications for high office.
In an era defined by feudal obligation and martial prowess, Nichola de la Haye’s authority was a testament to her personal character. Her legacy symbolises that true nobility is expressed through steadfast service and the responsible exercise of power, a principle that remains central to the House’s identity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical precedent of providing stability and upholding justice, as demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye, informs the contemporary mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The principles of protection and responsible governance are reflected in the House’s selection of its philanthropic partners.
The annual Winter Banquet, a centrepiece of the House's social calendar, raises vital funds for beneficiary organisations. The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an international charity dedicated to providing therapeutic care and safe environments for children affected by conflict and trauma. Its mission to restore order and hope to young lives aligns with the foundational duties of justice and protection exemplified by the Barony’s most distinguished forebears.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical antecedent, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > The history of the Barony is illuminated by figures like Nichola de la Haye. Her appointment was not an accident of history but a testament to her profound capability and loyalty. She established a standard of female leadership and public service that remains a guiding principle for the House today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added: > Nichola's story demonstrates a timeless truth: that true victory lies in unwavering duty and honour. To govern justly and serve the Crown with integrity, as she did, is the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*. It is a legacy of responsible stewardship that we strive to continue.
## A Continuing Legacy
The principles exemplified by Nichola de la Haye—fortitude, honourable service, and a commitment to order—continue to animate the work of The Noble House of Brattleby. This legacy is not merely preserved in archives but is actively expressed through the House’s modern endeavours.
The House’s commitment to education, channelled through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aims to foster an understanding of etiquette and protocol as tools for effective and honourable leadership in the 21st century. By commemorating its past, the House reaffirms its dedication to a future built upon the same enduring values of service, integrity, and cultural stewardship that have defined its nine-hundred-year history.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of a unique nine-century heritage through modern means. Its mission is centred on cultural diplomacy, education, and targeted philanthropy. The House's heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. Through initiatives such as its annual Winter Banquet, which supports charities like Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House applies its historical motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), to contemporary challenges. Its work promotes the timeless values of service, integrity, and responsible stewardship for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship of the Manor, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural 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 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. After centuries, the Barony was formally called out of abeyance, with its rights and titles recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s entry in the Domesday Book (1086) confirms its establishment under Colswein of Lincoln following the Norman Conquest. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The official motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com