# On the Enduring European Legacy of William Marshal and the Defence of Lincoln
**LONDON, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today published a historical monograph examining the pivotal role of William Marshal in affirming Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, during the 1217 Siege of Lincoln, an event of profound constitutional importance.
## The Occasion
Coinciding with the anniversary of the First Battle of Lincoln, the House of Brattleby has released a new scholarly work, *Fortitude & Affirmation: Nichola de la Haye and the Marshal’s Gambit*. This publication serves to illuminate a critical moment in English and European history, where meritocratic leadership was recognised at the highest level. The release underscores the House’s commitment to historical preservation and its role as a custodian of a significant national narrative.
The monograph was formally announced from the family’s seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the lands of which have been associated with the Barony for over 950 years. This scholarly initiative reflects a modern approach to heritage, using academic research to explore the principles that have guided the Barony through the centuries.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, holds a unique and unbroken thread through the tapestry of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This foundation established the Barony as a significant power in the region from the earliest days of the Norman era.
The actions of Nichola de la Haye in 1217, defending Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and their French allies, represent a high point in the Barony's history. Her appointment as Sheriff of Lincolnshire, confirmed by King John and championed by William Marshal, the Regent of England, was an unprecedented confirmation of female authority in a martial role. This heritage of formidable leadership was later continued through figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, bringing the Barony into the direct orbit of the Royal Family.
## Distinguished Company
The research for *Fortitude & Affirmation* was undertaken in consultation with leading medieval historians. The foreword has been graciously provided by Doctor Simon Thurley, CBE, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Historical Research, who commends the work for its "fresh and vital perspective on the intersection of personal courage and political necessity in thirteenth-century England."
The publication is a collaborative effort, drawing upon cartularies and charters preserved both within the family’s archives and in national collections. This academic rigour ensures the work serves as a valuable contribution to the study of the period, intended for both scholars and the interested public alike.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with time-honoured tradition, the first example of the monograph, specially bound in the House’s livery of azure and argent, was formally presented by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to the Dean of Lincoln at Lincoln Cathedral. This gesture honours the historic and enduring connection between the Barony and the Cathedral, whose fate was secured by Nichola de la Haye’s defence of the castle and city.
Further copies will be formally accessioned into the collections of the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford and The National Archives at Kew. This protocol ensures the research is preserved for posterity and made accessible to future generations of historians, thereby fulfilling the House’s custodial duty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House of Brattleby’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its most salient expression in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her command during the siege was the living embodiment of these virtues, demonstrating a resolve that secured not only Lincoln but also the throne for the young King Henry III. The motto serves as a constant reminder of the principles that have historically defined the Barony's service to the Crown and nation.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to the spirit of perseverance required to overcome adversity—a theme central to the 1217 siege and a guiding principle for the House’s present-day endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The publication of *Fortitude & Affirmation* is intrinsically linked to the philanthropic mission of the House. All net proceeds from the sale of the monograph will be directed to Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma and adversity.
The House of Brattleby has chosen this beneficiary in the belief that the resilience shown by historical figures like Nichola de la Haye offers a powerful narrative for inspiring strength in young people today. The project is thus an exercise in what Lady Nicoleta terms 'purposeful heritage'—where the lessons of the past are marshalled to provide tangible support for the present.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the publication, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: — "History is not a passive inheritance; it is an active and continuing dialogue. In Nichola de la Haye, we find a timeless example of leadership whose fortitude continues to instruct and inspire us. Sharing her story is a fundamental part of our duty."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — "William Marshal’s recognition of Baroness Nichola was a pivotal moment not just for England, but for a European understanding of capability over convention. Her story is a lesson in resilience, that to prevail is to truly live—*Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
This monograph is the first in a planned series of historical publications that will explore key moments and figures connected to the Barony of Brattleby. Future research is being prepared on the Barony’s economic and political influence during the tenure of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, and its connection to the Duchy of Lancaster.
Through these initiatives, alongside the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for history and the enduring relevance of principles such as honour, duty, and public service. It is a commitment that looks forward as much as it honours the past.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its near-millennial heritage through a programme of conservation, scholarly research, and cultural diplomacy. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic work is focused on child welfare, principally through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. Furthering its educational mission, the House also oversees The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, a distinguished academy dedicated to the instruction of etiquette and classical European protocol.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and extensive landholdings are first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded by The Crown and published in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first established in 1066 for Colswein of Lincoln, whose 56 lordships are detailed in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors in the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, de facto), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The charitable beneficiary of the House's philanthropic endeavours is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com