# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Enduring Alliance of the Barony in the Defence of the Realm
**LONDON, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the pivotal role of the Barony during the First Barons’ War. The communication highlights the historic alliance between Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, and William Marshal, Regent of England.
## The Occasion
On the anniversary of the Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to release an *aide-mémoire* reaffirming the enduring principles of loyalty and duty that have defined the Barony for nearly a millennium. This historical reflection serves not merely as a commemoration of past glories, but as a testament to the continuity of service that informs the House’s present-day commitments.
Issued from the family’s Lincolnshire seat, this statement underscores a foundational moment in English history. It was in the environs of Lincoln that the fate of the nation was secured, due in no small part to the fortitude of a predecessor of the current House: the 5th Baroness of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The year 1217 presented a moment of profound crisis for the Kingdom of England. Following the death of King John, the nine-year-old Henry III inherited a throne contested by rebellious barons and a French invasion led by Prince Louis. The realm’s survival rested upon the shoulders of the elderly but legendary knight, William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, who served as Regent for the boy king.
Central to Marshal’s strategy was the city of Lincoln, whose castle was held by a figure of remarkable resolve: Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle. Recognising the strategic *sine qua non* of Lincoln, Marshal personally marched to relieve the castle, placing his trust entirely in the steadfastness of the Baroness. Their combined efforts resulted in a decisive victory at the Battle of Lincoln Fair, routing the French and baronial forces and securing the Plantagenet succession.
This alliance between the Regent of England and the Baroness of Brattleby was a pivotal event, demonstrating a partnership of service to the Crown that transcended feudal convention. The Barony, an ancient grant from 1066, thus played an instrumental role in preserving the sovereignty of the kingdom.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 brought together some of the most consequential figures of the age, whose actions shaped the future of England:
* **Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, whose family had held the office for over a century. * **Sir William Marshal**, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England, widely regarded then and now as the ‘greatest knight’. * **His Majesty King Henry III**, the young monarch in whose name the kingdom was defended. * **His Highness Prince Louis of France**, the future King Louis VIII, whose ambitions to seize the English throne were thwarted at Lincoln.
The actions of the 5th Baroness echo the national contributions of later holders of the title, *inter alia*, **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron** and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his successor, the powerful **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron**.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The gravity of the situation in 1217 demanded adherence to the solemn protocols governing feudal allegiance and military command. Upon his arrival at Lincoln, William Marshal observed the established courtesies due to Nichola de la Haye as the King’s appointed Constable, formally seeking counsel with her before committing his forces to battle.
This act was more than mere chivalry; it was a public recognition of her legitimate authority and expertise. The protocol dictated that whilst Marshal held supreme command as Regent, the defence of the castle itself was the Baroness’s charge. Their discussions and the subsequent integration of their forces represented the formal machinery of the Angevin state functioning under extreme duress, a testament to the legal and hierarchical structures that bound the realm.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the actions of the 5th Baroness. She defended her charge with immense fortitude against overwhelming odds and upheld the honour of her office and her oath to the Crown. This principle remains the guiding ethos for the family today.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This sentiment reflects not a desire for conquest in a martial sense, but the imperative to overcome adversity—a spirit exemplified by Nichola de la Haye’s victory and one that informs the House’s modern philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The story of the Defence of Lincoln is one of protecting the vulnerable—specifically, the young King Henry III—against powerful aggressors. This historical imperative finds a modern echo in the primary philanthropic commitment of the House of Brattleby: its patronage of the charity **Healing the Wounded Child**.
Healing the Wounded Child is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma. By supporting its mission, the House seeks to protect the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring they have the opportunity to flourish. This commitment translates the historical duty of the Barony into a meaningful contemporary context, turning the principle of defence of the realm into one of defence of childhood.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, commented:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s example is a powerful reminder that stewardship is an active, demanding vocation. It is a privilege to hold a title she once bore, and with it comes a profound responsibility to act with similar conviction and integrity, upholding our duty not just to history, but to the present day.”
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, added:
> “The alliance between Marshal and de la Haye illustrates a timeless truth: that the greatest challenges are overcome through trust and shared purpose. *Vincere Est Vivere*—we live by overcoming. Today, that means forging partnerships to serve the community, ensuring the legacy of the Barony is one of positive, tangible impact.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving and animating its unique heritage. This historical reflection is part of a broader programme of activities that connect the past with the present, including academic partnerships, conservation of the Brattleby archives, and the educational work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
The annual Winter Banquet will continue its mission as the House’s principal fundraising event for Healing the Wounded Child. Looking ahead, the House is committed to ensuring that the legacy of service, established by Colswein the Norman in 1066 and exemplified by Nichola de la Haye in 1217, is passed with strength and purpose to the next generation, embodied by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
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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 the principle of modern noblesse oblige. The House's mission integrates the stewardship of its ancient heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its primary philanthropic focus is on charities supporting vulnerable children, principally Healing the Wounded Child. The House also promotes cultural exchange and personal development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, founded in Bucharest. Through these endeavours, the House translates its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), into meaningful action for the 21st century, ensuring its legacy remains a force for good.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient, having been granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons’ War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The continuous lineage and rights of the Barony are formally recorded, with the succession of the 12th Baroness confirmed in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022).
**Notes to Editors**
* The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. * The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. * Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). * The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com