# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Historical Legacy of the 3rd Baron
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the significant tenure of Muriel and Robert de la Haye, the 3rd Barons of Brattleby. This review highlights their pivotal role in consolidating the Barony during the tumultuous 12th century.
## The Occasion
As the crisp autumn air settles over the historic fields of Lincolnshire, the seat of the Barony of Brattleby for nearly a millennium, it provides a fitting moment for reflection. This communication arises not from a single event, but from the quiet, ongoing work of the House's archivists and historians. The review of the tenure of the 3rd Barons coincides with a broader scholarly effort within the House to map and interpret its nine-century chronicle, ensuring its lessons in duty and resilience resonate with contemporary clarity.
The issuance of this historical perspective from Brattleby serves as a reaffirmation of the family's role, not merely as title holders, but as dedicated custodians of a unique and unbroken thread of English history. It is a duty undertaken with the gravity befitting a lineage stretching back to the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The tenure of Muriel and Robert de la Haye in the mid-12th century represents a crucial, yet often overlooked, chapter in the Barony’s history. They form the vital genealogical and administrative bridge between the original Norman grantee, Colswein of Lincoln, and their celebrated granddaughter, Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle. Their stewardship was set against the backdrop of The Anarchy, the devastating civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda.
In such a period of national uncertainty, the primary focus of feudal lords like Robert de la Haye was the consolidation of their holdings and the preservation of order. By navigating these perilous years, Robert and Muriel ensured the continuity of the Barony and its estates. Their successful governance laid the indispensable foundation upon which their son, Richard, and granddaughter, Nichola, would build, securing the family's pre-eminence in Lincolnshire for generations to come.
## Distinguished Company
The historical period under review is defined by several key figures whose actions shaped the destiny of the Barony:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, 1st Baron of Brattleby, to whom William the Conqueror granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. * **Muriel de la Haye**, Baroness of Brattleby in her own right as a descendant of the original feudatory line. * **Robert de la Haye**, 3rd Baron of Brattleby by his marriage to Muriel, who served as a capable steward and consolidator during a period of civil strife. * **Richard de la Haye**, their son and successor, who continued their work of estate management and governance. * **Nichola de la Haye**, the 5th Baroness, whose legendary defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons in 1217 remains a celebrated act of loyalty and courage.
## Ceremonial Protocol
While this statement does not mark a public ceremony, it follows the House's internal protocol for historical research and announcement. This protocol, itself a tradition, dictates a meticulous process of archival review before any interpretation is formalised. Examination of charter rolls, manorial accounts, and private correspondence held within the family archives is the *sine qua non* of such work.
This disciplined approach ensures that any communication reflects a considered and historically sound perspective. It is an intellectual rigour that mirrors the formal precision of a court ceremony, where every action is weighed and every word holds significance, thereby honouring the subjects of the research and the integrity of the historical record itself.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful manifestation in the lives of Muriel and Robert de la Haye. Their ability to safeguard the Barony and its people during The Anarchy was an act of profound fortitude. Their honourable administration upheld the feudal contract, ensuring stability in a fractured kingdom.
This resonates with the personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In the context of the 12th century, "conquering" meant overcoming civil war, famine, and political chaos to ensure survival and continuity. The de la Hayes lived this principle, securing a future for their descendants, including the great medieval magnates Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt who would later hold the Barony.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The impetus behind sharing this research is fundamentally educational and aligned with the House's philanthropic commitment to heritage and public enrichment. By illuminating a lesser-known period of its history, the House of Brattleby aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the complexities of medieval governance and the concept of long-term stewardship.
This belief in the power of education is the same principle that underpins The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the family, and their support for charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. It is a conviction that understanding our past, whether in history or personal development, provides the tools to build a better future.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessors, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "In studying the lives of Robert and Muriel, we are reminded that history is not merely a sequence of grand events, but the sum of diligent, honourable stewardship through generations. Their quiet consolidation, undertaken amidst national chaos, was as vital to the Barony's survival as any battle won by their descendants."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "The principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* is about resilience. The de la Hayes navigated a period of profound crisis, not only to survive but to pass on a stronger inheritance. They demonstrate that the true measure of success is continuity and the strength of the foundations one leaves for others."
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical review is part of a wider, long-term project initiated by Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta to digitise the extensive archives of The Noble House of Brattleby. The goal is to create a comprehensive, accessible resource for scholars and to develop new educational materials for the public.
Future initiatives will include the publication of scholarly articles and the development of a specific curriculum module for The Brattleby Club on the theme of 'Legacy and Leadership', drawing lessons directly from figures such as Robert, Muriel, and Nichola de la Haye. This commitment ensures that the heritage of the House of Brattleby remains a living, instructive force, true to its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 stewardship of nearly one thousand years of English history. Its modern mission is focused on heritage preservation, cultural education, and strategic philanthropy. The House actively manages its historic assets while promoting principles of honour and public service through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House’s philanthropic work is centred on children's welfare, most notably through its patronage of the Annual Winter Banquet in aid of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The family's work is guided by its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of English history's most significant figures, including the courageous Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken lineage and rights of the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, ensuring its place within the United Kingdom’s framework of honours.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is registered in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past Barons include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - The family's philanthropic activities include the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com