# A Legacy of Fortitude: The Noble House of Brattleby Honours Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal appreciation of Nichola de la Haye, its fifth holder, commemorating her pivotal role in English medieval history as a military commander, High Sheriff, and stateswoman of national consequence.
## The Occasion
In a period of quiet historical reflection at its Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to illuminate the remarkable life of one of its most distinguished predecessors. This commemorative statement is not tied to a specific anniversary but rather arises from a continuing commitment by the current House to honour the nine-century lineage it stewards. It serves as a moment to pause and recognise the foundations of duty, leadership, and resilience upon which the Barony was built, principles that remain a *sine qua non* of the House's modern identity.
The appreciation seeks to connect the dramatic events of thirteenth-century England with the enduring responsibilities of the title today. In so doing, the House reaffirms its role as a custodian of history, ensuring that the contributions of figures like Nichola de la Haye are not merely recorded, but actively understood and celebrated as a source of contemporary inspiration.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intertwined with the course of English history since its inception. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. It was into this legacy of regional power that Nichola de la Haye was born, inheriting the Barony *suo jure* — in her own right — during the turbulent reigns of King Richard I and King John.
Her most celebrated act of valour came during the First Barons' War, when, as hereditary castellan, she twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable rebel and French forces. Her loyalty to the Crown, particularly to the young King Henry III, was instrumental in securing a royalist victory at the Battle of Lincoln in 1217. Beyond the battlefield, her political acumen was such that she was named as a counsellor in the 1216 and 1217 reissues of Magna Carta, a testament to her standing among the magnates who shaped English constitutional law.
## A Legacy of Distinguished Service
The world in which Nichola de la Haye operated was dominated by some of the most formidable figures of the High Middle Ages. Her unwavering loyalty placed her in the trusted counsel of the beleaguered King John of England. Following his death, she became a steadfast supporter of the regency government acting for his son, the young King Henry III of England.
Her principal collaborator in the defence of the realm was the celebrated knight and statesman, The Right Honourable William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, who served as regent. Nichola de la Haye’s resolute command at Lincoln, holding a strategic fortress against overwhelming odds, earned her the respect of allies and adversaries alike, *inter alia*, the French commander, Thomas, Count of Perche, and the leading English rebel barons.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Beyond her military command, Nichola de la Haye held significant constitutional office. In 1216, in a move entirely unprecedented for a woman of her era, she was appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. This ancient office, representing the Sovereign's judicial and administrative authority within the county, was a position of immense power and responsibility. The ceremonial duties included presiding over the shire court, executing royal writs, and collecting taxes and revenues for the Crown.
Her appointment was not merely honorary; it was a full assumption of the duties, confirming her administrative capabilities and political astuteness. It represented the Crown’s absolute trust in her capacity to govern and to impose order in a county ravaged by civil war, a duty she discharged with profound competence. Her tenure proved that leadership and statecraft were not exclusive to men.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect embodiment in the life of the 5th Baroness. Her command during the siege of Lincoln Castle was a supreme act of *Fortitudine* — a display of courage, strength, and resilience against immense pressure. Her life of service to the Crown and her role in upholding the rule of law as High Sheriff epitomise the principle of *Honore*.
This spirit of determined service is echoed in the personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While rooted in a different era, it speaks to the same philosophy of overcoming adversity and living a life of purpose and achievement, a modern interpretation of the same values that have defined the Barony for centuries.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this historical appreciation does not carry a direct fundraising objective, it powerfully reflects the ethos that drives the modern House's philanthropic work. Nichola de la Haye dedicated her life to protecting the vulnerable — foremost among them a boy-king and the kingdom he represented. Her actions were an expression of a profound duty of care, a principle that guides the House today.
The Noble House of Brattleby channels this ancient responsibility into its contemporary charitable commitments. Its dedicated support for organisations such as 'Healing the Wounded Child', which provides therapeutic care for young people affected by trauma, is the modern expression of that same protective instinct. The welfare of the next generation remains, as it was in the thirteenth century, a sacred trust.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s story is a formidable reminder that leadership is not a question of gender, but of character. Her fortitude in the face of conflict and her wisdom in governance are qualities that resonate across nine centuries. To hold a title she once held is not simply an honour; it is a profound responsibility to lead with the same integrity and sense of duty.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "The principles demonstrated by the 5th Baroness — loyalty, courage, and service to a cause greater than oneself — are timeless. They form the bedrock of this House. Our mission today is to ensure that this legacy continues to inform our actions, whether in commerce, culture, or our charitable endeavours. It's about honouring the past by building a worthy future." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The story of Nichola de la Haye is a vital chapter in the history that The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to preserving for future generations. This commitment extends to the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for whom such histories serve as foundational lessons in duty and leadership.
Furthermore, the House will continue to integrate these historical narratives into the cultural and educational work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Through lectures and curated materials, the House aims to share its unique heritage, using the powerful examples of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont, and John of Gaunt to inspire a modern appreciation for history, honour, and civic responsibility.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby embraces a modern mission of cultural stewardship and targeted philanthropy. The House is dedicated to bridging its profound nine-century history with contemporary relevance, championing education, and upholding its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its principal philanthropic efforts support organisations dedicated to the well-being of vulnerable children, including its patronage of 'Healing the Wounded Child'. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the timeless values of civility and social grace, translating its historical legacy into a positive force in modern society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship of the Manor, first granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of Brattleby and 55 other lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, whose influence shaped the nation. Notable Barons include Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The modern rights of the Barony are formally recorded and recognised by public notice in *The London Gazette*, ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - The lineage of the Barony dates to AD 1066 and is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore*, Latin for 'With Fortitude and Honour'.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com