# A Legacy of Service: The Noble House of Brattleby Honours the Historic Office of High Sheriff
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a reflection upon the enduring legacy of its predecessors, citing the remarkable tenure of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire during the turbulent early 13th century.
## The Occasion
In a statement intended to illuminate the principles guiding its modern activities, the House of Brattleby drew attention to the historical foundations of civic duty and regional governance. This reflection comes not at a single event, but during a season of historical remembrance for the House, connecting its nine-century lineage to the unceasing administrative and ceremonial life of the United Kingdom.
The ancient office of High Sheriff, an appointment made annually by the Sovereign, remains the oldest secular office under the Crown. It serves as a profound link between the medieval origins of English law and its contemporary practice; a continuity embodied by forebears of the House of Brattleby who held the post with great distinction.
## Historical Context
Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby has been intertwined with the governance of England since its inception. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as overseeing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a precedent for significant regional authority. This tradition of service found one of its most powerful expressions in Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness.
In an era when such authority was almost exclusively the preserve of men, Nichola de la Haye served as Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle and was twice appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. Her steadfast loyalty to the Crown during the First Barons' War, most notably her heroic defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 against French and rebel forces, was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her tenure demonstrated that the Barony was not merely a title, but a vital administrative and military pillar of the realm.
This legacy of direct participation in national affairs was later continued by other notable holders, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
In her capacity as High Sheriff and Constable, the 5th Baroness moved in the highest circles of power, her counsel valued by some of the most influential figures of the age. Her steadfast allegiance was given to King John and, following his death, to the regency council governing on behalf of his son, King Henry III.
This council included, *inter alia*, the revered knight William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England, and Peter des Roches, the influential Bishop of Winchester. That Nichola de la Haye was entrusted with the strategic keep of Lincoln and the shrievalty of its county by such men attests to the personal authority she commanded and the high esteem in which she was held.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The responsibilities of a High Sheriff in the 13th century were the *sine qua non* of royal authority in the counties. The Sheriff was the Crown's chief executive officer, responsible for executing writs issued by the King's Bench and Exchequer, presiding over shire court proceedings, and ensuring the collection of taxes and crown debts.
Of paramount importance was the military function. The High Sheriff held the power to raise the *posse comitatus*, a summons for all able-bodied men of the county to assist in keeping the peace and pursuing felons. For Nichola de la Haye, this duty extended to the battlefield command of the King’s forces in Lincolnshire, a responsibility she discharged with legendary courage.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness serve as a powerful historical validation of the House of Brattleby's motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle against overwhelming odds is a textbook illustration of fortitude. Her unwavering loyalty to two monarchs amid civil war and political intrigue exemplifies the principle of honour.
This spirit of overcoming adversity is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to a dynamic and forward-looking interpretation of the House’s ancient duties—not merely to endure, but to prevail and thrive through purposeful action. Together, the mottos frame a philosophy of honourable resilience and proactive service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The medieval Sheriff’s duty to protect the welfare of the shire's inhabitants finds a direct echo in the modern philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The ancient obligation to maintain peace and order has evolved into a contemporary commitment to nurture and heal the most vulnerable members of society.
This is formally expressed through the House's Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in support of a chosen charity. The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapy and support for children affected by trauma. This focus represents a modern, compassionate interpretation of the Barony's historic role as a guardian of its community.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical lineage, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s example is a powerful reminder that service is the bedrock of this House. Her fortitude in a world dominated by men demonstrates a commitment to duty that transcends circumstance. It is a standard to which we hold ourselves today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The office of High Sheriff was the core of regional governance. To see the Barony so central to its function, particularly through such a capable chatelaine, speaks volumes. It shows that true leadership is founded not on title alone, but on action and responsibility.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The principles exemplified by the 5th Baroness continue to inform the House's vision for the future. The commitment to upholding standards of conduct, duty, and social grace is actively promoted through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest.
By studying and disseminating the lessons of its history, The Noble House of Brattleby seeks to ensure that the spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore* remains a guiding force. This commitment ensures that the Barony is not a static relic of the past, but a living institution dedicated to making a positive contribution in the 21st century and beyond.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern organisation guided by a profound sense of historical continuity. Its mission is to translate the nine-century-old principles of the Barony—encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour')—into tangible, positive action. The House pursues this mission through targeted philanthropy, cultural patronage, and educational initiatives. Its principal activities include the Annual Winter Banquet, a major philanthropic event, and the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to promoting the values of etiquette, protocol, and civic duty for a new generation of leaders.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by King William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a significant tenant-in-chief. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including the celebrated 13th-century Sheriff and castle constable Nichola de la Haye; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder of the Order of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and progenitor of the Lancastrian dynasty. The Barony's modern standing and historical continuity were formally noted in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The House's seat is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), 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