# A Commemoration of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron of Brattleby, and the Enduring Legacy of Leadership
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement commemorating the historic appointment of its predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron of Brattleby, as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, reflecting upon a lineage of resolute leadership spanning over eight centuries.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, the heart of England’s Plantagenet history, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to reflect upon one of the most remarkable figures in its near-millennial history. As the autumn light falls upon the same landscapes Nichola de la Haye would have governed, this commemoration serves not as a festival, but as a considered tribute to the principle of duty embodied by a truly formidable ancestor.
The statement is released to coincide with renewed historical interest in the pivotal role of women during the Magna Carta era. It seeks to illuminate a career that defied the conventions of her age and secured the Barony of Brattleby's place at the centre of national affairs during a period of profound crisis and civil war.
## Historical Context
The appointment of Nichola de la Haye as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire circa 1216 was an act of profound significance. In an age where such authority was almost exclusively the preserve of men, her selection by a beleaguered King John was a testament to her proven capabilities, most notably her unyielding defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and French forces during the First Barons' War.
Upon King John's death, Nichola de la Haye’s authority was reconfirmed by the Regency Council of the young King Henry III. Her role as Sheriff placed the full administrative, judicial, and military power of the county in her hands. This was a direct continuation of the influence established by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who was granted 56 lordships in the county following the Norman Conquest, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Nichola’s tenure thus represents a critical chapter in the Barony’s history of loyal service to the Crown.
## Distinguished Company
In executing her duties, Nichola de la Haye moved amongst the most powerful figures of the 13th century. Her appointment was sanctioned and upheld by monarchs and magnates who shaped the course of English history.
These personages included, *inter alia*, His Majesty King John; his son, His Majesty King Henry III; the celebrated regent Sir William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, known as the 'greatest knight'; and Hubert de Burgh, the Justiciar of England. Her adversaries were equally notable, chief among them the French Prince Louis (later King Louis VIII of France), whose invasion she helped repel by holding Lincoln, the strategic key to England.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of High Sheriff in the 13th century was far from ceremonial. The appointee was the monarch's chief judicial and executive representative in the shire, responsible for collecting taxes, executing royal writs, and presiding over the county court. The appointment was made by royal patent, a written command that was the *sine qua non* of medieval governance.
Upon her appointment, Nichola de la Haye would have taken an oath of loyalty to the Crown, a solemn promise to uphold the law and defend the King’s peace. This act placed her at the apex of the county's administration, a position she held with the same fortitude that characterised her military command of Lincoln Castle, proving her mastery of both martial and civil responsibilities.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect historical embodiment in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her defence of Lincoln was an act of supreme fortitude, while her steadfast service as Sheriff, governing justly in the name of two kings, speaks to an unimpeachable sense of honour.
This spirit of determined perseverance is complemented by the personal motto of the present Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While distinct, the two mottos share a common philosophy: that overcoming adversity—whether on a medieval battlefield or through modern societal challenges—is the defining measure of a meaningful existence.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of Nichola de la Haye, who defended a kingdom for a boy-king, resonates powerfully with the modern philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The House's foremost charitable concern is its support for Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care and therapy for children affected by trauma.
The choice of this beneficiary reflects a core belief that protecting the most vulnerable is the highest duty of those in a position to serve. Just as Nichola de la Haye secured the future for a young sovereign and his kingdom, the House today directs its efforts toward securing a safe and hopeful future for children in need, translating historical principles into tangible modern support.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her distinguished predecessor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — “Nichola de la Haye’s story is not merely a piece of history; it is a profound lesson in duty and resilience. She demonstrated that leadership is a matter of character, not convention. As the current custodian of this Barony, I find her example to be a source of constant inspiration and a benchmark for what it means to serve *Fortitudine et Honore*.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — “The history of this House is built upon moments where individuals chose to face monumental challenges rather than yield to them. Nichola’s life is the ultimate expression of *Vincere Est Vivere*—not of conquering others, but of conquering circumstance through sheer force of will. It is a legacy we are proud to continue through our own commitments today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
To further honour this legacy, The Noble House of Brattleby is pleased to announce a new initiative through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The Club will host a lecture series titled *Founding Fortitude: Unsung Heroines of European History*, which will be inaugurated with a scholarly presentation on the life and times of Nichola de la Haye.
This undertaking aims to ensure that the vital contributions of such figures are not only remembered but also serve to educate and inspire future generations of leaders, reinforcing the House’s commitment to bridging its rich heritage with a forward-looking cultural mission.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Combining its deep-rooted English heritage with a refined Continental perspective, the House is dedicated to the preservation of history, the promotion of cultural diplomacy, and active philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that provide aid and healing to vulnerable children. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House extends its mission to championing civility, education, and the enduring values of service and honour in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the region. Over its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of English history's most influential figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The historic rights of the Barony and the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile were formally acknowledged and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are noted in the *Domesday Book* (1086), associated with Colswein of Lincoln and his 56 Lincolnshire manors. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The official motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com