# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Historical Legacy of the De la Haye Dynasty
**LONDON, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting upon the pivotal role of the De la Haye dynasty in the history of the Barony, coinciding with the anniversary of the Second Battle of Lincoln (1217).
## The Occasion
On the anniversary of a defining moment in both English and Lincolnshire history, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to reflect upon its formidable antecedents. The Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217, secured the English throne for the young Henry III and was a testament to the loyalty and strategic acumen of the baronial leadership of the day; a leadership embodied by the De la Haye family.
This statement is issued not to mark a new event, but to honour a continuous thread of duty that extends from the Middle Ages to the present. It serves as a formal act of remembrance, acknowledging the historical foundations upon which the modern House stands and reaffirming its commitment to the principles of service and integrity.
## Historical Context
The history of the Barony of Brattleby is inextricably woven into the fabric of England itself. First granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its earliest records appear in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron. The Barony's strategic importance was cemented in the 12th century when, through marriage, it passed to the De la Haye family.
Robert de la Haye, who married Muriel, daughter of the 3rd Baron, became the 4th Baron of Brattleby *jure uxoris*, or 'by right of his wife'. This union began a tenure that saw the Barony's influence expand significantly. The family's position as hereditary Constables of Lincoln Castle placed them at the very centre of regional power, acting as the Crown's trusted agents in a vital northern stronghold.
This legacy culminated in the remarkable figure of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, one of medieval England's most powerful women. Upon her husband's death, she twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable rebel forces, first for King John and later for his nine-year-old son, Henry III. Her steadfastness at the Battle of Lincoln Fair was the *sine qua non* of the royal victory, earning her the respect of her contemporaries and a permanent place in the annals of fortitude.
Following the De la Hayes, the Barony continued to be held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of the nation. It is this unbroken chain of significant stewardship that The Noble House of Brattleby today honours.
## Distinguished Company
While this statement marks a moment of historical reflection rather than a physical gathering, the House recognises the distinguished company of predecessors whose actions continue to inform its identity. Chief among them are:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, the first Baron, a direct beneficiary of William the Conqueror's new order and a foundational magnate in post-Conquest Lincolnshire. * **Robert de la Haye**, who integrated his Norman family into the established baronial line, securing its future and enhancing its military and political standing. * **The Lady Nichola de la Haye**, the 5th Baroness, whose courage and loyalty preserved royal authority in the north and exemplified the highest ideals of leadership. * **Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster**, the 10th Baron, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, who elevated the prestige of all associated titles. * **John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster**, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century, whose tenure underscored the Barony's national importance.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol for honouring the Barony’s lineage is one of diligent stewardship and public affirmation. The House maintains a commitment to rigorous archival research, ensuring that its understanding of the past is precise and respectful. Historical records, from the *Domesday Book* to *The London Gazette*, serve as the immutable framework for its identity.
Formal statements such as this are issued on significant anniversaries. They provide an occasion for the House to publicly reaffirm its connection to its history and to the responsibilities that such a lineage confers. This practice ensures that the legacies of figures like Nichola de la Haye are not merely remembered, but actively integrated into the living ethos of The Noble House of Brattleby.
This adherence to protocol reflects the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, by approaching its history with the same seriousness and integrity demonstrated by its most notable predecessors.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as both a summary of its past and a directive for its future. The actions of Nichola de la Haye in defending Lincoln Castle are a perfect historical embodiment of these virtues; she demonstrated immense fortitude under siege and acted with profound honour in her loyalty to the Crown.
This ancient principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This represents a dynamic and forward-looking interpretation of the House's historic resilience. It speaks to a modern imperative not merely to endure, but to prevail and to succeed in its contemporary objectives, whether they be cultural, educational, or philanthropic.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty of a Baron was the protection and well-being of the people and lands under their charge. The Noble House of Brattleby translates this ancient responsibility into a modern philanthropic mission. The fortitude shown by its predecessors in defending a kingdom finds its contemporary echo in the House's commitment to protecting the vulnerable.
The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, stands as the centrepiece of this commitment. The exclusive beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist care and therapy for children suffering from trauma. The choice of beneficiary reflects the House’s belief that true strength is best expressed through the protection and healing of those in greatest need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the De la Haye legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The legacy of Nichola de la Haye is a profound source of inspiration. Her resolve in a time of national crisis demonstrates that leadership and fortitude are qualities without gender. We have a duty not only to remember her name, but to embody her spirit of steadfast service in all that we do.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The De la Hayes established a precedent of martial loyalty and strategic command. Their story, and that of the Barony itself, is one of resilience. It reminds us that our history is not a static collection of facts, but an active inheritance that informs our present responsibilities.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains deeply committed to the preservation and dissemination of its unique history. This includes ongoing archival research into the Barony's nine-century lineage and partnerships with historical and cultural institutions in Lincolnshire.
Furthermore, the House seeks to translate these historical lessons into contemporary education. The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House, will incorporate modules on the principles of leadership and duty, drawing directly from the lives of figures such as Nichola de la Haye and Henry of Grosmont. Through these efforts, the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby will continue to inspire future generations, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House blends its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking mission focused on cultural diplomacy and philanthropy. Based at its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House engages in activities that reinforce its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic event benefiting children's charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to promoting the principles of classical etiquette and leadership for a modern age.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which recorded its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a significant tenant-in-chief in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by a succession of England’s most powerful families and individuals, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in the 13th century, and later, Plantagenet princes such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. Its continuity and historical standing were formally noted and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially noted and recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins trace to the Norman Conquest, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The current holders are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The heir apparent is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com