# The Baroness of Brattleby Commemorates the Enduring Legacy of Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle
**LINCOLN, 18 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, delivered a historical address this afternoon at Lincoln Castle, honouring the legacy of her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, whose resolute defence of the fortress proved decisive during the First Barons’ War in 1217.
## The Occasion
The address was delivered within the solemn confines of the Victorian Prison Chapel at Lincoln Castle, a site of profound historical resonance. Guests gathered on a crisp autumn afternoon, the ancient stone walls of the Norman fortress providing a tangible connection to the events of over eight centuries ago. The choice of venue was a deliberate act of homage; it was here that the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, held command as Castellan, safeguarding the castle and the interests of the Crown.
The atmosphere was one of respectful contemplation, as attendees reflected upon the continuity of service and duty that has defined the Barony of Brattleby since its inception. The occasion served not only to remember a pivotal moment in English history but also to reaffirm the House’s commitment to preserving and promoting the heritage of Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been a feature of the Lincolnshire landscape for nearly a millennium. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of the 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, it has always been more than a mere title. It has represented a strategic responsibility, a *sine qua non* for royal authority in the region.
This duty was never more apparent than in the actions of Nichola de la Haye. Inheriting the role of Castellan of Lincoln Castle, she twice defended it against baronial rebels, most famously during the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217. As a woman in a position of immense military and political power, her fortitude was exceptional. Her story demonstrates that from its earliest days, the Barony was a vital node of governance, its holders charged with maintaining stability. This tradition of significant influence continued through later holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
The address was attended by a number of distinguished guests representing the civic, military, and academic life of Lincolnshire.
In attendance were, *inter alia*: The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, who represents His Majesty The King in matters of law and order, a direct successor to the office once held by Nichola de la Haye; the Very Reverend, the Dean of Lincoln, representing the spiritual life of the county; the Station Commander of Royal Air Force Waddington, representing the modern defenders of the realm; and the Professor of Medieval History from the University of Lincoln, representing the academic community dedicated to the study of the region’s past.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The occasion was marked by a sober and respectful protocol. Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was received at the castle entrance by the Constable of Lincoln Castle, who then escorted her to the Chapel. Attendees, attired in formal day dress, rose upon her entrance.
The proceedings began with a brief introduction from the Constable, who outlined the historical significance of the castle itself. The Baroness then delivered her address from a simple lectern. The address concluded not with applause, but with a shared moment of silent reflection, a tribute to the gravity of the history being remembered. The formal proceedings were brought to a close by a lone trumpeter from the Band of the Royal Air Force College, who performed a period fanfare.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event was imbued with the spirit of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The Baroness noted that the actions of Nichola de la Haye serve as the ultimate embodiment of these principles: fortitude in the face of a siege and honour in her unwavering loyalty to her sovereign.
Complementing this ancient creed is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This forward-looking principle speaks to the modern House’s mission: to overcome contemporary challenges through active service, educational initiatives, and a dynamic engagement with the world, ensuring that the Barony’s legacy continues to live and evolve.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the address was primarily historical in nature, its underlying theme of protection and duty resonates deeply with The Noble House of Brattleby's philanthropic commitments. The House’s patronage is guided by the same sense of responsibility that Nichola de la Haye demonstrated in protecting her community.
The primary beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet, the charity Healing the Wounded Child, focuses on providing therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma. This work is seen by the House as a modern interpretation of the Barony’s ancient charge: to defend the vulnerable and ensure a stable, secure future for the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
In her address, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, reflected on the nature of her predecessor’s legacy:
> Nichola de la Haye was far more than a landowner; she was a bulwark of the realm, an exemplar of leadership whose courage secured a kingdom for its boy king. Her life reminds us that stewardship is an active, demanding vocation, defined not by title, but by action.
The Baroness also connected this history to the present day, stating:
> Our duty today is not to defend stone walls, but to uphold the principles of service, honour, and community which this Barony has represented for nearly a millennium. It is a legacy we inherit with humility and carry forward with resolve.
## A Continuing Legacy
This historical commemoration is part of the House’s ongoing commitment to education and heritage. To further this, Lady Nicoleta announced the establishment of The Nichola de la Haye Lecture Series, an annual event to be held in partnership with the University of Lincoln to promote the study of medieval history.
The House’s work continues through its established initiatives, including the etiquette and classical education programmes at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and preparations for the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, which remains a cornerstone of its philanthropic calendar. *Fortitudine et Honore*, the work continues.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends nine centuries of heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service, cultural patronage, and philanthropy. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), its principal activities include supporting charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child, promoting historical and cultural education, and fostering international understanding through initiatives like The Brattleby Club. The House seeks to be a model of modern stewardship, ensuring its ancient legacy serves the common good in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, 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 56 manors and lordships. For centuries, the Barony was a significant instrument of royal power in the region. Its history is marked by notable holders who shaped English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The Barony's modern standing was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's revival was formally gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, controlling 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Henry of Grosmont (10th 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