# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected on the profound historical significance of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, whose thirteenth-century appointment as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire remains a testament to exceptional leadership and enduring fortitude.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House takes a moment during the quiet solemnity of autumn to honour one of its most distinguished predecessors. In an age defined by rigid social structures, Nichola de la Haye’s remarkable ascent serves as a powerful historical precedent, the echoes of which continue to inform the character and commitments of the Barony today. This period of reflection connects the House’s nine-century history to its contemporary mission of service.
The historical accounts of Nichola de la Haye's life, preserved in the archives of Lincolnshire and the annals of the realm, provide a direct link to the foundational values of the Barony. Her story is not merely a matter of record; it is a source of continuing inspiration for the current family, illustrating that the principles of duty and resilience are timeless.
## Historical Context
The early thirteenth century was a period of profound turbulence for the English Crown, marked by the First Barons' War against King John. It was in this crucible of conflict that Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, distinguished herself not once, but twice, as the steadfast castellan of Lincoln Castle. Her successful defence of this vital royal stronghold was an act of unwavering loyalty and military acumen.
In recognition of her extraordinary service, the Regent, William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke—acting for the young King Henry III—appointed her High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. This appointment was a singular honour, granting a woman administrative and judicial authority seldom held by her gender. Her role as Sheriff, a position inherited from her father and held alongside her husband, Gerard de Canville, was a *sine qua non* for maintaining royal authority in the region. Nichola de la Haye thus followed a path of formidable leadership, a legacy that would later pass to figures such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of Nichola de la Haye is intrinsically linked to some of the most consequential figures of the medieval era. Her story unfolded in the context of service to, and at times conflict with, the Plantagenet monarchy.
The key historical persons involved in her era include: * **His Majesty King John of England**, whose reign precipitated the Barons' War. * **His Majesty King Henry III of England**, on whose behalf she held Lincoln Castle. * **The Right Honourable William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke** and Regent of England, who formally recognised her capabilities. * **Gerard de Canville**, Nichola’s husband, with whom she jointly managed her vast responsibilities.
Their interactions shaped the political landscape of Lincolnshire and secured the Barony of Brattleby’s place in the history of the nation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Office of High Sheriff is the oldest secular office in the United Kingdom after the Crown itself. In the thirteenth century, the Sheriff was the principal agent of the monarch in the county, responsible for collecting taxes, enforcing royal justice, and commanding the *posse comitatus*, or the county's military levy. The appointment was proclaimed by royal writ and symbolised the Crown’s absolute trust.
The role was both a great honour and a heavy burden. It demanded immense personal integrity, financial acumen, and the fortitude to impose the King's will. Nichola de la Haye's assumption of this office demonstrated not only the Regent's confidence in her but also her own exceptional capacity to navigate the complex protocols and duties of high medieval administration.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle was an act of supreme *fortitudine*, while her faithful discharge of duties as High Sheriff was a clear expression of *honore*.
This ancient motto serves as a constant guide for the current House. It is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Together, the two mottos articulate a philosophy of overcoming adversity with integrity, a principle that Nichola de la Haye exemplified over 800 years ago.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this commemoration is historical, its spirit directly informs the modern philanthropic work of the House. The example of Nichola de la Haye—a woman of power and purpose acting for the welfare of her community—inspires the choice of charitable beneficiaries. The House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, proudly supports Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic care to children who have experienced trauma.
Furthermore, her legacy of leadership and high standards is reflected in The Brattleby Club (Bucharest). This etiquette academy, founded by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, aims to cultivate personal excellence, social grace, and a sense of duty in the next generation, preparing them to lead with the same calibre of character that defines the Barony’s history.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her predecessor’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “Nichola de la Haye’s story is a powerful reminder that the responsibilities of this title are measured not by privilege, but by service. Her fortitude in the face of immense challenge is a standard to which we must always aspire. She governed with an authority born of competence and loyalty, proving that true leadership is timeless.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “To look back at a figure like Nichola is to understand the foundations upon which this House is built. Her life demonstrates that honour is earned through action and that one’s legacy is forged in moments of profound duty. It is a history that we have a solemn obligation to carry forward.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its past by serving the present. The life of Nichola de la Haye serves as a cornerstone of the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, ensuring he understands the long lineage of duty he is destined to inherit.
By championing causes that empower individuals and by promoting education grounded in character and discipline, the House seeks to perpetuate the very qualities that enabled the 5th Baroness to secure her indelible place in English history. The legacy continues not simply by bearing a title, but by actively upholding the values of fortitude and honour it represents.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House is dedicated to blending its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and education. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, notably through its annual Winter Banquet for the beneficiary Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also works to promote excellence and etiquette, fostering a new generation of leaders who are mindful of tradition yet prepared for the demands of the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is one of England's ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the title's dignity, history, and rights were formally recognised and recorded in the service of Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The modern rights of the Barony are officially recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com