# A Legacy of Service: The Barony of Brattleby and the Office of High Sheriff
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a reflection on the enduring connection between the Barony and the ancient Office of High Sheriff, highlighting the historic leadership of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, as a defining example of public duty.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet reflection upon the great annals of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby turns its attention to one of its most formidable predecessors. As the autumn mist settles over the fens and fields surrounding the baronial seat, it is timely to commemorate the legacy of public service that has been a hallmark of the Barony for over nine centuries. This is not to mark a single event, but rather to honour a continuum of civic responsibility, exemplified by the tenure of Nichola de la Haye as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in the early 13th century. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that titles carry with them a profound and lasting duty of care for the community.
This reflection acknowledges the *sine qua non* of nobility: that honour is earned not by birth alone, but through steadfast service. The actions of the 5th Baroness during a time of profound national crisis established a precedent for leadership and fortitude that continues to inspire the House's modern commitments. In recalling her example, the House reaffirms its own dedication to the principles she embodied.
## Historical Context
The history of the Barony of Brattleby is inextricably woven into the fabric of England itself. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through the centuries, the Barony passed to figures who shaped the nation, *inter alia*, the great magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. Yet, among these titans of history, the legacy of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, resonates with a particular clarity.
Inheriting the title in a turbulent era, Lady Nichola also held the office of High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. This was not a merely ceremonial post; it was the chief instrument of royal authority and administrative power in the county. As Sheriff, she was responsible for collecting taxes, enforcing justice, and defending the King's peace. Her most celebrated act was her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 during the First Barons' War, a feat of military and political courage that secured the throne for the young King Henry III and affirmed the Barony’s vital role in the governance of the realm.
## Distinguished Company
The current custodians of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, are part of a lineage of remarkable individuals. The heritage they steward was shaped by the distinguished company of their predecessors, each leaving an indelible mark on the history of Lincolnshire and the nation.
This historic roll includes, among others: Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, a Norman magnate foundational to the post-Conquest settlement; the aforementioned Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and Castellan of Lincoln Castle; Sir Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter who was created 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his heir, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence as a prince of the blood dominated the political landscape of late 14th-century England.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the 13th century, the role of High Sheriff was the axis upon which local government turned. The appointment, made annually by the Crown, conferred immense authority. The Sheriff presided over the Shire Court, executed High Court writs, and was responsible for the custody of prisoners and the conduct of parliamentary elections. The office holder was the King’s direct representative, a position of unparalleled trust and responsibility within the county.
The ceremonial protocol surrounding the High Sheriff underscored their authority. Upon taking office, they would take a solemn oath of allegiance and service. Their duties required them to maintain a considerable retinue, and their presence at judicial assizes, often accompanied by trumpeters and javelin men, was a powerful display of the rule of law. For Nichola de la Haye to hold this office was exceptionally rare for a woman of her time, speaking volumes of the personal trust placed in her by the Crown.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This creed finds its ultimate expression in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her defence of Lincoln Castle against overwhelming odds was a masterclass in fortitude, while her unwavering loyalty to the Crown, even when it was politically perilous, was the epitome of honour. The motto serves as a perpetual charge to all who hold the title.
Complementing this ancient device is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is understood not merely in a martial sense, but as a philosophy of overcoming adversity through proactive and determined effort. It speaks to the modern imperative faced by the House: to conquer contemporary challenges such as social disadvantage and the neglect of heritage, and thereby to live a life of purpose and consequence.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty of the Sheriff to protect the citizens of the shire finds a modern echo in the philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. While the means of service have evolved from swords and statutes to grants and guidance, the core principle of safeguarding the vulnerable remains unchanged. The House's primary charitable focus is a direct continuation of this ancestral responsibility.
The beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By funding secure residential programmes and expert counselling, the charity offers a path toward recovery, helping to restore the safety and stability that every child deserves. The House's support for this cause translates the historic duty of public protection into a modern commitment to personal healing.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "When one considers the life of Nichola de la Haye, one is struck by her immense courage and sense of duty. She was a leader in the truest sense, upholding justice and defending her community in a time of chaos. For me, her story is a powerful affirmation that our motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, is not simply a phrase, but a living standard we must strive to meet every day."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History provides an essential map for the present. The role of the Sheriff was to ensure the well-being and order of the county. Today, we interpret that duty through our philanthropic work. *Vincere Est Vivere* means channelling our resources to help others overcome their struggles. By supporting organisations like Healing the Wounded Child, we are continuing that ancient tradition of service, simply in a modern context."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its past by serving the present. The example of Nichola de la Haye will continue to inform the House's endeavours, particularly in its educational and cultural initiatives. Through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to impart the values of etiquette and social responsibility, citing historical figures like the 5th Baroness as exemplars of honourable leadership.
Looking forward, the House will deepen its engagement with the heritage of Lincolnshire, working to ensure that the stories of its remarkable predecessors are preserved and shared. This commitment reinforces the belief that a profound understanding of one's history is the surest foundation upon which to build a meaningful future, both for the House and for the communities it serves. The legacy of service, forged nine centuries ago, continues.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to stewarding a unique historical legacy while embracing a modern, forward-looking mission. The House champions the principle of 'nobility through service', focusing its philanthropic efforts on child welfare and cultural preservation. Through its annual Winter Banquet, it supports charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, which provides critical care for vulnerable young people. The House also extends its cultural influence through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, promoting the timeless values of decorum and social responsibility. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guides its commitment to serving the community with integrity.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient landed titles, having been granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, the Norman lord Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After a long period in abeyance, the peerage was formally recognised and vested in its current holder, as published in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The formal recognition of the Barony is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com