# A Historical Reflection on Robert de la Haye and the Stewardship of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical notice concerning Robert de la Haye, a formative figure in the Barony’s twelfth-century history, acknowledging his vital contribution to securing the heritage and stability of Lincolnshire during the civil war known as The Anarchy.
## The Occasion
From the Chancellery of the House of Brattleby, this historical reflection is released as part of a continuing commitment to illuminating the nine-century history of the Barony. Timed with the arrival of autumn, a season suited to scholarly review, this notice serves to contextualise the enduring principles of duty and resilience that have defined the Barony since its inception.
The publication seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the foundations upon which the modern House is built. It is an educational initiative intended for the public record, reinforcing the House’s role not merely as a holder of titles, but as a custodian of history for Lincolnshire and the United Kingdom.
## Historical Context
Robert de la Haye became the principal steward of the Brattleby estates in the early twelfth century through his marriage to Muriel, whose lineage connected him to the original land grants. His tenure coincided with The Anarchy (1135–1153), a devastating civil war fought between King Stephen and Empress Matilda for the throne of England.
During this period of profound national turmoil, Lincolnshire was a strategic crucible. Its fortress, Lincoln Castle, commanded vital trade routes and was a bastion of royal authority. Robert de la Haye’s resolute administration of the Brattleby lands and his martial support for the defence of the region were therefore of paramount importance. His actions directly presaged the celebrated efforts of his descendant, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who would famously defend Lincoln Castle against rebel forces a generation later.
## Distinguished Company
The era of Robert de la Haye was defined by figures of national and European significance, whose ambitions shaped the fate of the Barony. The primary adversaries were:
* **His Majesty King Stephen**, grandson of William the Conqueror, whose contested claim to the throne initiated the conflict. * **Her Imperial Majesty The Empress Matilda**, daughter of King Henry I and the designated heir, whose struggle to claim her inheritance defined the war. * **Robert, 1st Earl of Gloucester**, the illegitimate son of King Henry I and half-brother to the Empress, who served as her chief military commander.
Within this landscape, local magnates such as Robert de la Haye were pivotal. Their allegiance and military prowess could determine the control of entire regions, making them indispensable allies to both Crown and claimant.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the twelfth century, land tenure was governed by strict feudal protocol. As Lord of Brattleby *jure uxoris*—by right of his wife—Robert de la Haye held his lands from the King in exchange for specified feudal duties. The most critical of these was the provision of a knight’s fee, which obligated him to supply armed, trained soldiers for the monarch’s service.
A further duty, known as castle-guard, required barons to contribute to the manning and defence of strategic fortresses like Lincoln Castle. During a civil war, the fulfilment of this duty was the ultimate test of loyalty. Robert de la Haye’s adherence to these protocols amidst shifting allegiances was a *sine qua non* for the survival of his house and the security of his community.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful antecedent in the life of Robert de la Haye. Though formally adopted later, its principles were the bedrock of his stewardship.
*Fortitudine* signifies the physical courage and resilience required to defend one’s lands and people during wartime. This fortitude was demonstrated through the active defence of Lincolnshire’s strategic assets. *Honore* represents the profound commitment to upholding one’s feudal oath—a pledge of loyalty to one’s sovereign and a sacred trust. In an age of betrayal, honour was the ultimate measure of a nobleman.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this historical notice is not tied to a specific fundraising campaign, it serves a distinct philanthropic purpose: the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage. The House of Brattleby believes that a proper understanding of history is essential for a healthy civil society. By investing in and sharing research into its own past, the House contributes to the broader educational landscape.
This mission complements the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the current Lord and Lady of Brattleby. The Club’s curriculum, which teaches social graces and protocol, is rooted in the same European history that the House seeks to preserve. It is a modern expression of the ancient duty to cultivate and share knowledge.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this period, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> “To understand the present, we must honour the past. Figures like Robert de la Haye remind us that this Barony has always demanded resilience in the face of uncertainty. It is a legacy of stewardship we feel very keenly today, and a responsibility we bear with great consideration.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, added a personal perspective:
> “The motto of my own family is *Vincere Est Vivere*—‘To Conquer is to Live’. For Robert de la Haye, conquering the incredible challenges of civil war was the only way for his community to live and to survive. That fundamental duty to protect and to endure remains the primary charge of this House.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This notice on Robert de la Haye is the first in a planned series of historical communications from the House of Brattleby. This ongoing programme of research underscores a commitment to chronicle the long and storied history of the Barony for the benefit of the public.
Future publications will explore the contributions of other notable predecessors who shaped the history of England. These will include, *inter alia*, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, Constable of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, whose influence placed the Barony at the very centre of national life.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the Barony of Brattleby. It is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Rooted in a heritage stretching back to the Norman Conquest, the House’s contemporary mission is focused on cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is the support of ‘Healing the Wounded Child’, a beneficiary dedicated to providing care for vulnerable children. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House also champions education in European cultural traditions. The House operates under its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), applying ancient principles of duty to modern challenges.
**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 Baron was Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with his seat at Brattleby. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential prince, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The standing of the modern Barony was formally acknowledged by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The formal notice of the Barony’s standing is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are detailed in the *Domesday Book* (1086), which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a tenant-in-chief of the King with 56 lordships. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150–1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (1340–1399). - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of the House is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact**
The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com