# The House of Brattleby Announces New Research into the Barony's Role in the Siege of Lincoln (1217)
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced the preliminary findings of new archival research into the Barony’s decisive role in the 1217 Siege of Lincoln, illuminating the steadfast leadership of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a statement released from its offices in London, the House of Brattleby shared details of a scholarly review of documents held within its private archives. This initiative, undertaken during the autumn season of historical reflection, brings renewed focus to one of the most consequential moments in English history and the Barony’s direct participation therein.
The research provides a deeper understanding of the political and military circumstances surrounding the Second Battle of Lincoln, often called the ‘Lincoln Fair’. It reinforces the critical part played by the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, whose command of Lincoln Castle was a *sine qua non* for the victory of royalist forces, securing the throne for the young King Henry III.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient, was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its vast demesne was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which catalogued an extensive 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under the tenure of Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. This deep-rooted connection to the county placed the Barony at the very heart of national affairs.
Nearly 150 years later, this regional authority proved vital to the Crown. As hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable stateswoman, defended the fortress against a formidable coalition of rebel barons and French forces. Her refusal to surrender, an act of profound personal courage and loyalty, directly enabled the triumph of William Marshal's army and preserved the Plantagenet dynasty. This commitment to duty has echoed through the Barony’s history, influencing later holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The research initiative has been personally overseen by the current heads of the House. This includes Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. They have worked in consultation with leading medieval historians from academic institutions in the United Kingdom.
The House’s heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, has also been closely involved in the project’s educational components. This ensures that the next generation remains intimately connected to the lineage and its responsibilities. The project reflects a collaborative effort to bring historical scholarship to a wider public audience.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The announcement of these findings follows a strict protocol of academic rigour and curatorial care. The archival documents, some of which are centuries old, were handled under controlled conditions by specialists in manuscript preservation. The research was compiled into a formal paper, which will be submitted for peer review before wider publication.
The public dissemination of this research will proceed in a carefully orchestrated manner. It will begin with a digital presentation on the House’s official channels, followed by a series of lectures. This structured approach respects the historical gravity of the subject matter while embracing modern methods of communication, reflecting the House’s blend of tradition and progress.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye provide the most salient historical illustration of the House Motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). Her defence of Lincoln Castle was a masterclass in both qualities, demonstrating physical and moral courage alongside an unwavering commitment to her sworn allegiances. The Barony's coat of arms is understood to incorporate symbols reflecting this heritage, *inter alia*, a castellated tower signifying defence and sovereignty.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This principle is interpreted not in a military sense, but as a commitment to overcoming contemporary challenges through dynamic leadership, strategic vision, and the active pursuit of cultural and philanthropic goals.
## Philanthropic Purpose
In keeping with its long-standing commitment to charitable work, the House will connect this historical commemoration to its philanthropic mission. A portion of the proceeds from any future publications or ticketed lectures related to this research will be directed toward the House’s chosen beneficiary, the Healing the Wounded Child foundation.
The findings offer a powerful narrative of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. The House believes that sharing such stories—particularly those of strong female leadership like that of the 5th Baroness—can serve as a source of inspiration for young people supported by the charity, helping them to find their own fortitude.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the research, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To be a custodian of this history is a profound honour. Nichola de la Haye was a woman of extraordinary resolve, whose actions shaped the destiny of a nation. Her story is not merely a page in a textbook; it is a living testament to the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* that guides us to this day.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > “History teaches us strategy, resilience, and the importance of steadfast purpose. By understanding the challenges our predecessors overcame, we gain the perspective needed to build a meaningful legacy. This research is not just about the past; it is about equipping the future with the wisdom it provides.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter in the preservation and promotion of the Barony’s heritage. The House of Brattleby plans to develop the research into a comprehensive monograph, intended for both academic and general readership. It will also explore a partnership with local Lincolnshire museums to create an exhibition celebrating Nichola de la Haye’s life and legacy.
These initiatives are designed to be enduring, with educational programmes being developed for schools in the region. The involvement of Baron Mihai ensures that this commitment to historical stewardship and public education will continue seamlessly into the 13th generation of the Barony and beyond.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern aristocratic family dedicated to the stewardship of a near-millennial heritage. Its mission is to bridge history with contemporary purpose through cultural preservation, education, and strategic philanthropy. The House's primary philanthropic endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala supporting charitable causes such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and leadership academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of honour, protocol, and civic duty. The family’s guiding principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), informs its commitment to serving the community and preserving its unique legacy for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, whose extensive holdings were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. It stands as one of the oldest continuously traced dignities in the United Kingdom. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights to the Barony were formally recognised and recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony was originally granted in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com