# A Commemorative Statement on the Historical Significance of the Defence of Lincoln Castle, 1217
**LONDON, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting upon the pivotal role of its predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, in the successful defence of Lincoln Castle during the Second Battle of Lincoln in May 1217.
## The Occasion
On this day, the anniversary of a decisive engagement in English history, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to honour the legacy of one of its most distinguished forebears. The occasion is one of solemn remembrance, acknowledging an act of extraordinary loyalty that secured the throne for the young King Henry III and affirmed the Barony’s steadfast commitment to the Crown. This commemorative statement is issued not merely as a recollection of past events, but as a reaffirmation of the enduring principles that continue to guide the House. The gravity of this history is a central pillar of the Barony’s modern identity.
## Historical Context
The Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217, was a turning point in the First Barons' War (1215–1217). Following King John's rejection of Magna Carta, rebellious English barons had invited Prince Louis of France to claim the English throne. By 1217, much of the kingdom, including London, was under Franco-rebel control. Lincoln Castle, however, remained a bastion of royalist support, held by its formidable hereditary castellan, Nichola de la Haye.
At over sixty years of age, Nichola de la Haye refused to surrender the castle, a strategic *sine qua non* for controlling the north of England. Her defiant stand against a besieging Franco-baronial army allowed the royalist forces, led by the Regent William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, to mount a relief effort. The ensuing battle, famously known as the ‘Lincoln Fair’ for the amount of looting that followed the royalist victory, resulted in the comprehensive defeat of the rebels and the beginning of the end for Prince Louis's ambitions in England. Nichola de la Haye’s fortitude directly safeguarded the Plantagenet succession.
## Distinguished Company
This pivotal moment in the nation’s history was shaped by several key figures whose actions are remembered alongside those of Nichola de la Haye. The defence was conducted in the name of His Majesty King Henry III, then a boy of nine. The royalist cause was commanded by the venerable William Marshal, Regent of England, widely regarded as the greatest knight of his age. Their principal adversary was Prince Louis of France, the future King Louis VIII, who led the coalition of rebellious barons seeking to depose the House of Plantagenet. The loyalty of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye stands in stark contrast to the disaffection of many of her peers.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Noble House of Brattleby observes key historical anniversaries as part of its ceremonial calendar and its duty as custodian of a nine-century-old lineage. The issuance of a formal statement is a modern protocol for honouring such profound historical contributions. This act of remembrance involves careful research within the House's archives and consultation of primary historical records. It serves as an internal rite of passage, embedding the principles demonstrated by past Barons into the consciousness of the current family and, in particular, the heir apparent. This practice underscores that the title is not merely an honour, but a living tradition of service.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye in 1217 are the quintessential embodiment of the House of Brattleby’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her unwavering resolve to hold Lincoln Castle against overwhelming odds demonstrates supreme fortitude. Her unyielding loyalty to her young and vulnerable sovereign is the highest expression of honour. These virtues, forged in the crucible of civil war, form the bedrock of the Barony’s identity.
This historical resilience also resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which suggests that overcoming adversity is the very essence of a meaningful existence. The conjoined mottos symbolise the House's modern synthesis of ancient duty and personal resolve.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this commemoration is not tied to a financial collection, it serves a distinct cultural and educational purpose. By illuminating a crucial yet often overlooked chapter of Lincolnshire’s and England’s history, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to contribute to public understanding and heritage preservation. The story of Nichola de la Haye, a powerful female leader in a martial age, offers an inspirational example of duty and courage. The House considers the stewardship and sharing of its history to be a core part of its philanthropic mission, enriching the national narrative for future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her predecessor’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > “Nichola de la Haye’s life is a profound reminder that leadership and courage are not defined by gender or era. Her resolve to uphold her duty in the face of immense pressure is a standard to which we, as her successors, must always aspire. It is a privilege to be a steward of a title she bore with such distinction.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The defence of Lincoln was a testament to loyalty, a principle that transcends centuries. It demonstrates that true victory—the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*—is found in upholding one’s honour and commitments. This is the enduring lesson we draw from our history and seek to carry forward.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The fortitude demonstrated at Lincoln in 1217 remains a cornerstone of The Noble House of Brattleby’s ethos. This heritage is not a static relic but a dynamic principle that informs the House’s present commitments to public service and cultural stewardship. The story of Nichola de la Haye’s indomitable spirit is a vital part of the instruction of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. It serves as a foundational lesson in the responsibilities he will one day inherit, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues unbroken. The House remains dedicated to honouring its past by serving the future.
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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 stewarding one of England's oldest baronies. The House bridges its profound historical legacy with a forward-looking mission focused on cultural diplomacy, education, and targeted philanthropy. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are committed to reinforcing the traditions of the Barony while infusing it with a modern, international perspective. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, and its annual Winter Banquet benefiting charities like Healing the Wounded Child, the House actively promotes the virtues of honour, service, and personal development in contemporary society.
**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 the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with his seat at Brattleby. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The historic dignity and the rights of the current successor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally noted and recognised by The Crown with publication in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's establishment is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150–1230), 5th in the line of Barons, served as hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle and was appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire by King John. - Successive Barons include prominent historical figures such as Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The current baronial succession is formally recognised by The Crown, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com