# The Noble House of Brattleby on the Enduring Legacy of the 12th Century
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the 12th century, a pivotal era that defined the Barony's enduring character and established a legacy of resilience and duty through the stewardship of the De la Haye family.
## The Occasion
In its capacity as custodian of one of England’s most ancient baronies, The Noble House of Brattleby periodically shares reflections upon its nine-century history. This statement serves to illuminate a formative period for the Barony, connecting its mediaeval foundations to its present-day commitments. The 12th century, marked by civil war and political realignment, was an era in which the principles of fortitude and honour were forged in the crucible of conflict, becoming a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s identity. Such historical stewardship is considered a fundamental duty of the title, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to inform the responsibilities of the present.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby rose to national significance during the 12th century under the De la Haye family, who served as hereditary Constables of Lincoln Castle. Amid the protracted civil war known as The Anarchy (1135–1153), the allegiance of the Barony was of critical strategic importance. Richard de la Haye, a key figure of this time, demonstrated steadfast loyalty to the Crown, securing the Royalist cause in Lincolnshire, a county of immense economic and military value.
This period of instability cultivated a profound military and administrative tradition within the Brattleby lineage. These established skills and unwavering commitment would prove vital in the following century. They laid the essential groundwork for one of the Barony’s most celebrated holders, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, whose storied defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel and French forces in 1217 remains a testament to the character of the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The trials of the 12th century are directly mirrored in the enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This phrase encapsulates the principles demonstrated by Richard de la Haye and his descendants; a commitment not merely to survival, but to dutiful service and honourable conduct, even in times of profound national uncertainty. It speaks to a heritage of resilience that is actively cultivated by the House today.
This foundational motto is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of the House’s modern leadership, which seeks to conquer contemporary challenges in philanthropy and education with the same determination its predecessors applied to the battlefield and the royal court.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical role of the Barony as a protector of the Crown's interests and its people has evolved into a modern philanthropic mission. The principle of defending a strategic castle finds its contemporary parallel in the House’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable. The steadfastness shown by the De la Haye family is reflected in the long-term support provided to the House’s principal charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides specialised therapy and support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By fostering environments of safety and recovery, the charity’s work embodies the ancient duty of guardianship in a modern context. The historical legacy of fortitude, therefore, directly informs the House's resolve to offer sanctuary and hope to those in greatest need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical chapter, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly one thousand years of English history. The story of the De la Haye family in the 12th century is not simply a matter of record; it is a source of profound inspiration. It reminds us that leadership is defined by resilience and an unwavering commitment to one’s duty, a principle personified by my predecessor, Nichola de la Haye.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The legacy of the past provides the foundation upon which we build the future. The fortitude shown during The Anarchy is the same spirit we seek to apply to our philanthropic work and educational initiatives today. History gifts us a sense of purpose, reminding us that our modern efforts are part of a much longer continuum of service.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains dedicated to honouring its past while actively serving the present. Through its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of etiquette and social responsibility. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child, represents a cornerstone of its commitment to active charity.
In exploring and communicating its rich history, the House seeks not only to preserve its heritage but also to underscore the relevance of its founding principles—*Fortitudine et Honore*—in the 21st century. This commitment ensures that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby will continue to be one of purpose, honour, and service for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is the modern embodiment of one of England’s oldest feudal baronies. While deeply respectful of its nine-century heritage, the House is focused on a forward-looking mission of philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. Its principal charitable focus is on organisations dedicated to the welfare of vulnerable children, most notably its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House works to promote the enduring values of civility and social grace. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to purposeful and resilient leadership.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England in Lincolnshire, 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. The Barony has a distinguished history, with its lineage including notable figures such as Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The rights of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile to the Barony of Brattleby is officially 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, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and Nichola de la Haye, a rare example of a mediaeval woman commanding a royal castle in her own right. - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, a UK-based organisation providing therapeutic care for young victims of trauma.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com