# The Enduring Legacy of Nichola de la Haye: The Baroness of Brattleby Commemorates a Pivotal Moment in English History
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today delivered a commemorative address at Lincoln Castle, honouring the historic fortitude of her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, whose defence of the castle in 1217 proved instrumental in securing the English throne.
## The Occasion
Beneath the historic ramparts of Lincoln Castle, whose Norman stones have witnessed nearly a millennium of English history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile marked the 807th anniversary of the Second Battle of Lincoln. The ceremony took place in the castle’s central bailey, within sight of both the twelfth-century Cobb Hall and the imposing structure of the Victorian prison, a poignant backdrop blending justice and defence.
On a day of soft Lincolnshire sunlight, a respectful silence attended the proceedings. The atmosphere was one of solemn remembrance, dedicated to a pivotal moment when the actions of one individual altered the course of the nation. The occasion served not merely as a historical observance, but as a living connection between the Barony’s past and its present-day commitments.
## Historical Context
The event commemorates the extraordinary leadership of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, during the First Barons’ War. Following the death of King John in 1216, England was plunged into crisis, with rebel barons supporting an invasion by Prince Louis of France to claim the throne from the nine-year-old King Henry III. As the hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye refused to surrender this vital northern stronghold.
Her steadfastness culminated on 20 May 1217, when a royalist relief force led by William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, engaged the French and rebel forces in the streets of Lincoln. Nichola’s resolute defence of the castle was the anchor of the royalist strategy; her actions ensured the fortress held, leading to a decisive victory for the young King Henry III. This triumph, often called the ‘Fair of Lincoln’, effectively ended the French invasion and secured the Plantagenet dynasty, a legacy with which the Barony of Brattleby remains inextricably linked.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance to honour the memory of Nichola de la Haye were a number of distinguished guests, reflecting the significance of the occasion for both the county and the Crown. Lady Nicoleta was joined by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby.
Among those present were the Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, representing His Majesty The King; the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; and the Right Reverend the Dean of Lincoln. Also in attendance were senior representatives from the academic and cultural sectors, including the Director of the Lincolnshire Archives and a curator of Medieval History from the Royal Armouries. The presence of the Defence Attaché from the Embassy of Romania in London underscored the House’s contemporary European connections.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ceremony adhered to a formal and dignified protocol. Dignitaries were received by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan at the castle’s East Gate, the very entrance secured by Nichola de la Haye’s forces. The dress code was Morning Dress for gentlemen and Day Dress for ladies, lending a traditional solemnity to the gathering.
Following the reception, a small procession, led by the High Sheriff in ceremonial attire, proceeded to a designated overlook on the castle walls. Here, a lone bugler from the Band of the Royal Anglian Regiment sounded a fanfare. Lady Nicoleta then laid a wreath of white roses and Lincolnshire greenery at the base of the wall, a symbolic tribute to resilience and peace. The ceremony concluded with the Baroness’s commemorative address.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was rich in the symbolism that defines the House of Brattleby. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was the central theme of the day, perfectly encapsulated by the historical actions of Nichola de la Haye. Her resolve in the face of overwhelming odds continues to serve as the ultimate standard for the Barony’s incumbents.
The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), was also noted as a modern reflection of the House's enduring spirit. It speaks not of military conquest, but of overcoming challenges through determination and purpose—a principle demonstrated in the House’s contemporary philanthropic and cultural endeavours. The armorial bearings of the House, displayed discreetly on the lectern, served as a visual reminder of an unbroken lineage dating to the Norman Conquest.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the day was one of historical reflection, Lady Nicoleta used the occasion to reinforce the House’s commitment to its charitable work. In her address, she announced that the theme of this year's Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s primary philanthropic gala, will be ‘Fortitude’. The evening will celebrate modern-day courage and resilience in support of the banquet's beneficiary, the organisation Healing the Wounded Child.
Healing the Wounded Child provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma and adversity. Lady Nicoleta remarked that honouring the strength of the past must be matched by a commitment to fostering strength in the most vulnerable of the present generation.
## In Their Own Words
In her formal address, Lady Nicoleta reflected on the character and legacy of her predecessor:
> “Nichola de la Haye was far more than a castellan; she was the embodiment of principled leadership in an age of chaos. Her fortitude was not mere stubbornness, but a profound commitment to her sovereign and to the rule of law. She reminds us that loyalty is not passive, but an active, courageous choice.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Connecting this history to the present day, the Baroness concluded:
> “We stand here today not only to remember a great victory, but to reaffirm the values it represents. The duty to serve, the courage to stand firm, and the honour that underpins it all, remain the *sine qua non* of our purpose, linking us through the centuries to Nichola and, *inter alia*, to other great custodians of this Barony like Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The commemoration at Lincoln Castle signals a renewed focus for the House of Brattleby on sharing its unique history as a platform for education and inspiration. The lessons from Nichola de la Haye’s leadership are being integrated into the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette academy, as a case study in civic responsibility and grace under pressure.
Looking ahead, the House plans to work more closely with heritage organisations in Lincolnshire to support the preservation of local history. This commitment ensures that the legacy of fortitude and honour, so powerfully demonstrated in 1217, continues to resonate and inspire future generations.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-hundred-year heritage, the promotion of civic duty, and a focused philanthropic mission. Its principal charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support to children affected by trauma. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House champions the timeless values of etiquette, leadership, and service. The heir to the Barony is the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony 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 the tenant-in-chief of 56 mannors. Throughout its long history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and gazetted by The Crown, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historic holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com