# The Noble House of Brattleby Honours the Enduring Legacy of Nichola de la Haye, Fifth Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 16 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, yesterday hosted a private historical address at the family seat in Lincolnshire, commemorating the remarkable life and distinguished service of Nichola de la Haye, a formidable medieval predecessor and defender of Lincoln Castle.
## The Occasion
The event was held within the Long Library at Brattleby, the historic seat of the Barony. As gentle autumn light filtered through the tall sash windows, a distinguished company of historians and local dignitaries gathered to reflect upon one of the most pivotal figures in Lincolnshire’s history. The atmosphere was one of scholarly reflection, set against the backdrop of walls panelled in ancient Lincolnshire oak and bookcases containing chronicles of the county. The occasion was conceived not as a celebration, but as a thoughtful academic tribute to the resilience and leadership that has defined the Barony through the centuries.
The address, delivered by a leading medieval historian, took place in a setting that itself echoes the nine centuries of the Barony's existence. The selection of the Long Library, a room traditionally used for quiet contemplation and study, underscored the academic purpose of the gathering, providing a fitting forum for the examination of a legacy forged in the crucible of the First Barons' War. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, joined Lady Nicoleta in receiving the guests, reinforcing the family's unified commitment to preserving and understanding their profound heritage.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, holds a lineage that is woven into the fabric of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through the marriage of Muriel de la Haye to Robert, the Barony passed to a family that would elevate its influence to a national level. Their descendants, Richard and his formidable wife Nichola, stand as central figures in this chronicle.
Nichola de la Haye, who inherited the title of 5th Baron in her own right, famously served as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, a position she held with great distinction. Her steadfast defence of the castle during the 1217 Battle of Lincoln, a decisive engagement of the First Barons' War, was instrumental in securing victory for the royalist cause and preserving the throne for the young King Henry III. Her command during the siege represents a singular example of female leadership in a martial age. The Barony later passed to other great magnates of the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan were honoured to welcome a small and noteworthy group to Brattleby for the address. The assembly was a convergence of civic leadership, academia, and a shared appreciation for English heritage.
In attendance were, *inter alia*: * His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mr Toby Dennis. * The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Mr Andrew C. G. Clark. * The Very Reverend Christine Wilson, Dean of Lincoln Cathedral. * Professor Dame Eleanor Vance, Regius Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge, who delivered the principal address. * Her Royal Highness Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia and Serbia.
Each guest was personally greeted by the Baroness upon arrival, continuing a long tradition of hospitality at the House.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formal yet intimate protocol befitting the nature of the event. Guests were received in the Entrance Hall before being escorted to the Long Library, where light refreshments were served. The dress code observed was morning dress or lounge suits, respecting the daytime formality of the occasion.
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, opened the event with brief introductory remarks on the importance of historical continuity. Professor Dame Eleanor then delivered her forty-minute address, entitled *Nichola de la Haye: Castellan, Baron, and Architect of a Royal Victory*. A short session for questions and answers followed, allowing for a collegial exchange between the speaker and the assembled guests. Honorary Lord Răzvan offered the concluding words of thanks, before inviting attendees to join him and Lady Nicoleta for luncheon.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The theme of the day resonated deeply with the guiding principles of The Noble House of Brattleby, encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Nichola de la Haye’s unwavering defence of her charge, undertaken with immense personal courage and a deep sense of duty, is a historical embodiment of this creed. Her life serves as the *sine qua non* example of fortitude in the face of overwhelming adversity and honour in service to the Crown.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This principle, which champions the overcoming of challenges as the essence of a meaningful life, finds a powerful echo in Nichola’s own refusal to yield her position. Together, the two mottos represent a philosophy of principled resilience and purposeful action that guides the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the historical address was not a fundraising event, the spirit of service exemplified by Nichola de la Haye is the same spirit that animates the contemporary mission of the House. The commitment to protect and to serve informs the family's philanthropic focus, most notably their patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This vital organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its mission—to defend the vulnerable and help them rebuild their lives with strength and dignity—is a modern expression of the same duty of care that antecedents such as Nichola de la Haye demonstrated in their own time. The House’s annual Winter Banquet is the primary vehicle through which support for this cause is channelled.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > Nichola de la Haye was more than a predecessor; she was a custodian of duty in an age of profound turbulence. Her remarkable story reminds us that leadership is ultimately defined not by title, but by decisive action and unwavering resilience.
Lady Nicoleta further commented on the connection between the past and present: > In studying our lineage, we find not only a chronicle of the past but also a clear guide for the present. Our family’s commitment, from the ramparts of Lincoln Castle nine centuries ago to our modern philanthropic work, is rooted in the abiding principle of service. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a motto, but a continuing responsibility.
## A Continuing Legacy
The historical address marks the beginning of a renewed focus by the House on its educational mission. Building on the interest generated by the event, The Noble House of Brattleby is pleased to announce its intention to establish an academic bursary. This bursary will support a postgraduate student at the University of Lincoln undertaking research into the Magna Carta era and the role of key Lincolnshire figures.
Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the heir to the Barony, will take a leading role in the development of this new initiative. This programme aims to ensure that the vital lessons of the past continue to inspire future generations of leaders, scholars, and citizens, thereby carrying the torch of legacy forward with purpose.
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**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* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage while actively engaging in contemporary cultural and philanthropic pursuits. Its mission centres on promoting education, championing public service, and providing meaningful support to charitable causes, particularly those focused on child welfare, such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also fosters an appreciation for cultural etiquette and international fellowship, bridging its historic English roots with a forward-looking, Continental perspective.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of Lincolnshire's ancient feudal lordships. Its first recorded holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as a significant tenant-in-chief. Through its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of England's most influential figures. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted historical lineage of the Barony and the rights of its current holder were formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current status was formally gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held by Colswein of Lincoln. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com