# A Commemoration of Nichola de la Haye and the Defence of Lincoln
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the anniversary of the Second Battle of Lincoln, honouring the pivotal role played by its fifth holder, Nichola de la Haye, in defending Lincoln Castle and securing the authority of the English Crown.
## The Occasion The commemoration took place within the historic grounds of the family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. A private ceremony was held in the morning, observing the solemnity of an anniversary that shaped the course of English history.
The soft light of a late spring day illuminated the estate, providing a tranquil setting for reflection on events of profound historical weight. The atmosphere was one of quiet reverence, focused not on celebration but on remembrance of duty and sacrifice.
## Historical Context In the spring of 1217, during the First Barons' War, the future of the Plantagenet dynasty hung in the balance. Nichola de la Haye, Castellan of Lincoln Castle and 5th Baron of Brattleby in her own right, found herself at the epicentre of the conflict.
She steadfastly defended the castle against a besieging force of French and rebel English barons who supported the claim of Prince Louis of France. Her resilience provided the royalist army, led by William Marshal, with the time needed to arrive and relieve the siege. The ensuing engagement on 20 May 1217, known as the Second Battle of Lincoln, was a decisive victory for the loyalists, safeguarding the throne for the nine-year-old King Henry III and ultimately leading to the expulsion of French forces from England.
## Distinguished Company The act of remembrance was led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. They were accompanied by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
The presence of the family's three generations underscored the unbroken chain of stewardship that connects the modern House to its formidable predecessors. No other guests were in attendance, preserving the private and personal nature of the ancestral tribute.
## Ceremonial Protocol The ceremony was marked by a simple, dignified protocol. Following a reading from the *Histoire de Guillaume le Maréchal*, which chronicles the events of 1217, Lady Nicoleta laid a wreath of white roses at the foot of a memorial stone dedicated to the Barons of Brattleby.
The white rose, a symbol of loyalty and associated with the House of York, was chosen for its historical resonance within the broader narrative of English dynastic history. A moment of silence was then observed, allowing for personal contemplation of the fortitude displayed by Nichola de la Haye more than eight centuries ago.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance The actions of Nichola de la Haye embody the House of Brattleby's hereditary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her unyielding defence of Lincoln Castle was a singular act of fortitude, while her loyalty to the young King Henry III, in defiance of overwhelming opposition, was a testament to her profound sense of honour.
This historical legacy serves as the *sine qua non* of the family's identity. It is a spirit echoed in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the resilience required to overcome adversity and secure a future.
## Philanthropic Purpose While this commemoration is historical, its themes of protection and duty resonate deeply with the House's present-day commitments. The defence of the vulnerable young King Henry III provides a powerful parallel to the family's philanthropic focus.
The principal beneficiary of the House's charitable activities, including the annual Winter Banquet, is Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma, reflecting the enduring principle that the most profound duty is the protection of the young and the vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The story of Nichola de la Haye is not merely a piece of family history; it is a constant reminder of the responsibilities that come with our inheritance. Her fortitude shows us that true strength is found in service and an unwavering commitment to one's principles.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > Looking back at such moments in history teaches us that a legacy is not passively inherited but actively forged. Nichola de la Haye's defiance in the face of immense pressure is an inspiration for navigating the challenges of our own time, always with honour.
## A Continuing Legacy The House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this significant chapter of its history continues to inform its present and future. To that end, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest will introduce a new module into its curriculum on the history of European leadership, with a particular focus on the role of influential women like Nichola de la Haye and her contemporaries.
This educational initiative aims to share the lessons of the past with a new generation, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues to inspire.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern institution rooted in nearly a millennium of English history. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the thoughtful stewardship of its heritage and a forward-looking programme of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Its mission is guided by the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's charitable work is primarily focused on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to promote dialogue on etiquette, history, and civic responsibility in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient honours, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), a key royalist commander and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), the celebrated 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), a son of King Edward III. The modern rights of The Noble House of Brattleby to the title were formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony's modern recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com