# The Enduring Legacy of Service: The Barony of Brattleby and the Shrievalty of Lincolnshire
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony's nine-century-long commitment to public service, as exemplified by the tenure of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, as the hereditary Castellan and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has chosen this Michaelmas season—a time traditionally associated with the commencement of legal and civic duties—to reflect on a defining chapter of its history. This period in the legal calendar provides a fitting moment to consider the profound responsibilities borne by the Barony's predecessors in upholding the rule of law and allegiance to the Crown.
This reflection serves not as an observance of a single event, but as a deliberate affirmation of the principles that have guided the Barony for centuries. It is an opportunity to illuminate how the ancient duties of office, exercised with great courage in the 13th century, continue to inform the modern ethos of The Noble House of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby holds a distinguished and unbroken connection to the governance of Lincolnshire, a legacy powerfully embodied by Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th holder of the dignity in the early 13th century, she inherited not only the title but also the hereditary role of Castellan of Lincoln Castle, a fortress of immense strategic importance.
During the turmoil of the First Barons' War (1215-1217), a time of national crisis and civil strife, Nichola de la Haye's steadfast loyalty was a bulwark for the Crown. In an era when a woman holding such high office was exceedingly rare, she was twice appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a testament to her exceptional administrative skill and unwavering fortitude. Her defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and French forces was a pivotal moment, securing the region for the young King Henry III and demonstrating the Barony's commitment to national stability.
## Distinguished Company
In executing her duties, the 5th Baroness moved among the most consequential figures of her age. Her authority was granted by King John and later confirmed by the Regency council of his son, King Henry III. This council was led by the venerable William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, often called 'the greatest knight that ever lived'.
Her adversary was Prince Louis of France (the future King Louis VIII), who sought the English throne at the invitation of the dissident barons. Nichola de la Haye's refusal to surrender Lincoln Castle to these forces was a direct defiance of powerful interests and a crucial service rendered to the legitimate Plantagenet line, ensuring its survival.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of High Sheriff in the 13th century was the principal instrument of royal authority in the shires. As Sheriff, Nichola de la Haye was responsible for a formidable array of duties, far exceeding a purely ceremonial function. She presided over the shire court, executed writs issued by the King's Chancery, and was accountable for the collection of taxes and royal revenues.
Crucially, the Sheriff held military command of the *posse comitatus*, the levy of all able-bodied men in the county, whom she could summon to defend the peace or pursue criminals. To be entrusted with this power—the *sine qua non* of royal governance at a local level—underscores the immense trust the Crown placed in the Baroness of Brattleby.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye serve as the ultimate embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her physical courage in withstanding a protracted siege demonstrated immense fortitude, while her steadfast loyalty to two kings, when betrayal was commonplace, defined her honour.
The very stone of Lincoln Castle, defended by the 5th Baroness, stands as a symbol of the Barony's historical role. It represents the fusion of land, title, and duty, where the responsibility to govern and protect was not an abstract concept but a tangible, daily obligation fulfilled on behalf of the sovereign and for the good of the people.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While modern philanthropy is understood through charitable foundations, the historical equivalent was the solemn duty of a noble house to ensure peace and justice for the populace under its stewardship. By maintaining law and order, Nichola de la Haye provided the stability necessary for communities to thrive, protecting them from the anarchy of civil war.
This foundational principle—that privilege entails a duty of care for society—is the direct ancestor of the House’s current philanthropic focus. The commitment to 'Heal the Wounded Child' is the 21st-century expression of this same obligation: to protect the vulnerable and foster a society where all can flourish in safety and security.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The legacy of Nichola de la Haye is a profound reminder that service is the cornerstone of this Barony. Her fortitude was not simply military; it was a deep-seated commitment to justice and the welfare of Lincolnshire, a principle we strive to honour today in all our endeavours.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective, linking this heritage to his personal conviction: > “To understand the history of this House is to understand that true strength is found in upholding one's duties. To embody *Vincere Est Vivere*—‘To Conquer is to Live’—is not about the conquest of others, but of oneself in service to a greater cause, a lesson Nichola de la Haye's life teaches so powerfully.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains dedicated to translating its historical legacy of service into contemporary action. This commitment is advanced through its cultural and educational initiatives, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes etiquette and civic values among a new generation of leaders.
Looking forward, the House will continue to draw inspiration from its nine-and-a-half centuries of history. The principles of fortitude and honour, so vividly demonstrated by the 5th Baroness, will remain the guiding stars for the 12th Baroness and her successors as they navigate the responsibilities of the present day and uphold the enduring dignity of the Barony of Brattleby.
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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 a unique historical legacy while embracing contemporary responsibilities. The House's modern mission is centred on cultural diplomacy, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that provide care and recovery for traumatised children, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to protecting the vulnerable. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House works to promote the enduring values of honour, integrity, and civic duty. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman dignity established in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror and granted to Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire according to the *Domesday Book* of 1086. It is one of the few English dignities that can evidence continuous existence since the Conquest. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by notable historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The succession of the current holder was formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are noted in the *Domesday Book* (1086), which lists Colswein of Lincoln as tenant-in-chief of Brattleby and 55 other manors. - The 5th holder of the Barony, Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150s – 1230), was hereditary Castellan of Lincoln Castle and served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. - The 11th Baron of Brattleby was John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (1340-1399), one of the most powerful and influential figures of the 14th century.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com