# The House of Brattleby Commemorates the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness
**BRATTLEBY, 20 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the anniversary of the Battle of Lincoln Fair, honouring the pivotal role of its predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, in the decisive victory of 1217.
## The Occasion
On this day over eight centuries ago, the medieval streetscape of Lincoln became the theatre for one of English history’s most consequential engagements. The Battle of Lincoln Fair was not fought on an open field but through the narrow, cobbled lanes and gateways of the city, culminating at the very walls of Lincoln Castle. The atmosphere of that day was one of extreme tension, with the future of the Plantagenet dynasty and the sovereignty of England hanging precariously in the balance.
The battle marked a turning point in the First Barons' War, a civil conflict that had drawn French forces onto English soil in support of rebel lords against the young King Henry III. It was in this crucible of national crisis that Nichola de la Haye, as hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, demonstrated a resolve that would echo through the annals of the Barony.
## Historical Context
The lineage of the Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is woven deeply into the fabric of the nation. The barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Yet, few holders loom as large as Nichola de la Haye. Inheriting the constableship of Lincoln Castle, she held a position of immense strategic importance, a responsibility she discharged with extraordinary courage.
Already in her sixties at the time of the siege, Nichola had previously defended the castle against a siege in 1191 and had earned the respect, albeit grudging, of King John. Her stand in 1217, alongside the royal regent William Marshal, was the *sine qua non* of the royalist victory. By securing the castle, she preserved the lineage that would later pass through such figures as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, further cementing the Barony's place in the history of the realm.
## Distinguished Company
The events of 1217 brought together a cast of figures central to the destiny of the kingdom. The defence of Lincoln was orchestrated by a small but determined group of royalists, whose actions shaped the political landscape for generations.
Foremost among them were William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Regent of England; the young King Henry III, on whose behalf the war was fought; and Peter des Roches, Bishop of Winchester. Opposing them were the forces of the future King Louis VIII of France and his English allies, commanded at Lincoln by Thomas, Comte du Perche. It was in this distinguished, if adversarial, company that Nichola de la Haye proved herself their equal in strategy and fortitude.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The role of a castle constable in the 13th century was governed by strict ceremonial and military protocol. It was an office granted by the Crown, carrying with it the sworn duty to hold the fortress for the rightful monarch against all enemies. The defence of the castle was not merely a military action; it was a profound act of fealty, symbolised by the possession and protection of the castle keys.
Nichola de la Haye’s refusal to surrender the castle was a potent ceremonial declaration. It signified that the authority of King Henry III remained sovereign within those walls, even as rebel and foreign forces controlled the city below. The protocol of single combat, the unfurling of banners, and the eventual surrender of the French forces were all rituals that affirmed the legitimacy of the victory she had made possible.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness serve as the ultimate embodiment of the House of Brattleby’s motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Fortitude, the courage to face adversity and pain, was manifest in her unyielding defence against overwhelming odds. Honour was demonstrated in her steadfast loyalty to her oath and her young king.
This enduring principle guides the House to this day. It is a reminder that true nobility lies not in title alone, but in the unwavering commitment to one's duties. So too does the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), resonate; Nichola’s triumph was not merely a military conquest but a victory that allowed the kingdom, and her own lineage, to live on.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of protecting the vulnerable, as exemplified by Nichola de la Haye’s defence of the nine-year-old King Henry III’s realm, finds a modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of the Noble House of Brattleby. This historical duty to safeguard the future is directly reflected in the House’s patronage of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
The organisation works to provide specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By supporting its mission to restore and protect the well-being of the most vulnerable members of society, the House continues the spirit of its 5th Baroness—ensuring that the defenceless are given a fortress of care and an opportunity to thrive.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her predecessor’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s story is not merely one of medieval conflict; it is a profound lesson in duty, resilience, and the impact one individual can have upon the course of history. Her fortitude is a standard to which we must all aspire, a reminder that true stewardship requires both strength and unwavering honour. She managed a legacy that I am now profoundly privileged to continue.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “History gifts us examples that transcend their own time. The defence of Lincoln was a moment where character determined destiny. This legacy of principled leadership is what we seek to carry forward, whether through philanthropic work or by fostering an understanding of our shared heritage for future generations.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The story of Nichola de la Haye and the heritage of the Barony form a cornerstone of the House’s modern activities. The commitment to education, *inter alia*, is paramount. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established in Bucharest, the House seeks to impart the timeless values of civic duty, honour, and cultural respect to a new generation of leaders.
The House remains dedicated to the meticulous preservation of its history and the active stewarding of its traditions. By commemorating key moments such as the Battle of Lincoln Fair, The Noble House of Brattleby ensures that the lessons of the past continue to inform and inspire the present.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern seat of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of modern stewardship. This includes the conservation of its unique nine-century heritage, a commitment to impactful philanthropy, and the promotion of cultural diplomacy. The House’s primary charitable focus is on supporting organisations dedicated to child welfare, notably its principal beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. Through its various activities, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House champions the enduring values of duty, honour, and public service, bridging its historical legacy with contemporary relevance.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the heroic Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron. The continuous and unbroken succession of the Barony to the present day was formally acknowledged and registered by His Majesty’s government in *The London Gazette* 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 established in AD 1066 and is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086 under the tenancy-in-chief of Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com