# On the Historical Identity of the Barony of Brattleby in the Twelfth Century
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement on the Barony's formative 12th-century period. It highlights the De la Haye family's consolidation of power during The Anarchy and their establishment of an enduring legacy of loyalty and stewardship.
## The Occasion
In a period of considered historical reflection, The Noble House of Brattleby offers this formal exposition on the 12th century, a defining era for the Barony. This century, marked by civil war and profound social change, was instrumental in shaping the character and destiny of the title. The statement serves not merely as a chronicle of past events but as a reaffirmation of the core tenets — fortitude, honour, and duty — that have guided the Barony for over nine hundred years.
This review of a pivotal period in English history is released as part of the House's ongoing commitment to scholarship and the preservation of its institutional memory. By examining the trials and triumphs of their predecessors, the current House seeks to illuminate the unbroken chain of responsibility that links the Norman Conquest to the present day.
## Historical Context
Established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was, by the 12th century, a seasoned and strategic possession in the heart of Lincolnshire. Its initial granting to Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, underscored its importance. However, it was during the tumultuous civil war known as The Anarchy (1135–1153) that the Barony, then held by the De la Haye family, faced its most significant test.
Amid the conflict between King Stephen and Empress Matilda, control of Lincoln Castle became a paramount strategic objective. The De la Haye family, as hereditary constables of the castle, expertly navigated the treacherous political landscape. Their steadfast command of this key northern fortress ensured not only their own survival but also cemented their reputation for military prowess and unwavering loyalty to the Crown, a legacy that would find its ultimate expression in the following century.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of the 12th-century Barony is shaped by figures of historical consequence whose actions determined the fate of the realm. The primary actors were the members of the De la Haye family, who held the Barony and the constableship of Lincoln Castle. Their story is interwoven with that of the principal antagonists of The Anarchy: King Stephen of Blois and his cousin, the Empress Matilda.
This era set the stage for one of the Barony's most notable predecessors, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness in her own right. Though her celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle against French invaders occurred in 1217, the political and military foundations for her heroic stand were forged by her family's astute governance throughout the preceding century. Her example remains a benchmark of leadership and courage within the annals of the House.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The 12th century was governed by the strict protocols of the feudal system, a complex web of rights and obligations that bound the Baron of Brattleby to the sovereign. The *sine qua non* of this relationship was the act of homage and fealty, a solemn ceremony in which the Baron swore an oath of allegiance, promising military service and counsel in exchange for the monarch's protection and the right to hold his lands.
Succession to the Barony itself followed primogeniture, yet the period also demonstrated the remarkable capacity for female inheritance, as later exemplified by Nichola de la Haye. The administration of the Barony's 56 lordships, as first recorded in Domesday, required a sophisticated system of local governance through reeves and bailiffs, all operating under the Baron's authority and seal, ensuring that justice, rent collection, and law were dutifully maintained.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the actions of the 12th-century barons. 'Fortitude' was demonstrated through their resilience during years of civil war, while 'Honour' was displayed in their ultimate loyalty to the established monarchical line. This creed guided their decisions, transforming the Barony from a mere landholding into a bastion of principle.
This historical spirit of decisive action is also echoed in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In the context of The Anarchy, survival was a form of victory, and the ability to overcome existential threats was the very definition of life and continuity for a noble house.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While modern philanthropy is a concept anachronistic to the 12th century, the era’s equivalent was rooted in the principle of *noblesse oblige* — the understood duty of the nobility to protect the populace and serve the realm. By securing Lincoln Castle and maintaining order in their demesne, the Barons of Brattleby fulfilled a crucial civic function, providing a shield against the chaos and depredation of civil war.
This historical commitment to guardianship and the welfare of the community can be seen as the antecedent to the modern House's charitable endeavours. Today, this tradition of service is manifested in a more structured form, *inter alia*, through dedicated support for organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, continuing a centuries-old mandate to provide protection and care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this period, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The 12th century was a crucible, not only for England but for Brattleby. The actions of the De la Haye family during The Anarchy forged a resilience that has become part of our institutional memory. The example set by leaders such as Nichola de la Haye, a direct product of that era's challenges, continues to inform our understanding of true stewardship.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile observed: > To study the 12th century is to understand the fundamentals of enduring power: strategic foresight and unwavering resolve. The Barons of Brattleby secured Lincoln, and in doing so, secured their legacy. It is a powerful illustration that survival and victory are profoundly intertwined, a timeless lesson in leadership.
## A Continuing Legacy
The lessons of the 12th century continue to provide a guiding framework for The Noble House of Brattleby. The strategic discipline and commitment to order that characterised the De la Haye family's tenure are reflected today in the House’s modern initiatives. These include the careful cultivation of cultural diplomacy and the disciplined instruction offered through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
Looking forward, the House remains dedicated to honouring its past by serving the present. The fortitude shown during The Anarchy serves as an inspiration for the family's philanthropic commitments and its public role. The annual Winter Banquet and other charitable activities are a direct continuation of the duty of care that has been a hallmark of the Barony for over 950 years.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to upholding the ancient traditions of the Barony through contemporary service. Its mission focuses on targeted philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. The House’s official seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, and its principal charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of discipline, honour, and social grace, connecting a distinguished past with a purposeful present guided by a profound sense of duty.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of England's most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown and The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022, ensuring the continuity of one of England’s oldest titles.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its holdings under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The primary beneficiary of the House's philanthropic activities is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com