# The Noble House of Brattleby Honours the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye, Fifth Baron and Defender of Lincoln Castle
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting upon the remarkable life of Nichola de la Haye, fifth holder of the Barony. Her historic leadership in the 13th century continues to inspire the House’s modern commitment to public service.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the heart of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to acknowledge a formidable figure from its own storied past. As the spring light settles over the historic landscape, the House archives have once again illuminated the profound contributions of Nichola de la Haye, whose tenure as Baron and High Sheriff of Lincolnshire represents a significant chapter in both local and national history.
This moment of reflection is not prompted by a specific anniversary, but rather by a continuing appreciation for the bedrock of duty upon which the modern House is built. It serves as an internal affirmation of the values that have guided the Barony for nearly one thousand years, connecting the digital age to the age of Magna Carta.
## Historical Context
Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150s – 1230) inherited the Barony of Brattleby through her lineage from Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron appointed by William the Conqueror. In an era where female power was exceptional, Nichola’s career was truly extraordinary. She served not only as Baron but also as Castellan of Lincoln Castle, a position of immense strategic importance.
Her most celebrated act of fortitude came during the First Barons' War. In 1217, at an age approaching 70, she courageously defended Lincoln Castle against French and rebel forces, holding it for the Crown until relief arrived. Her loyalty and military acumen earned her the lasting respect of the Regency, and King Henry III later confirmed her appointment as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire—a role she held with distinction.
## Distinguished Company
The legacy of Nichola de la Haye places her within a pantheon of the Barony’s most consequential holders. Her steadfast service to the Crown echoes the founding loyalty of the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships as a Tenant-in-Chief following the Norman Conquest, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086.
Generations later, the Barony would pass to other figures central to the history of England, including the celebrated military commander Sir Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and first Duke of Lancaster. He was succeeded by his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose own descendants would found a royal dynasty. The example set by this distinguished company provides a constant source of inspiration for the current House.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the 13th century, the role of a Baron was defined by strict feudal protocol. It entailed the sworn duty to provide counsel to the King, to administer justice within one’s domain, and, crucially, to furnish knights for the royal army. Holding the Shrievalty, or office of High Sheriff, further empowered Nichola de la Haye to act as the Crown's chief agent in the county, responsible for collecting taxes, enforcing writs, and presiding over the shire court.
For a woman to hold these roles concurrently was not merely unusual; it was a testament to her personal character and the trust placed in her by the monarchy. Her authority was a *sine qua non* for maintaining royal control in a volatile region, demonstrating that capability and loyalty were the ultimate currencies of power.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the life of Nichola de la Haye. Her defence of Lincoln Castle was an act of supreme fortitude, while her long and loyal administration of Lincolnshire was a model of honour. This guiding principle reminds the House that strength must always be paired with integrity.
This spirit is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It reflects a dynamic interpretation of the House's historical resolve—a philosophy that embraces overcoming modern challenges not through conflict, but through purposeful action and service.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of service personified by Nichola de la Haye directly informs the philanthropic ethos of the modern House of Brattleby. Just as she served her community and sovereign, the House today directs its efforts toward strengthening the fabric of society.
This commitment is focused through its annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for the chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The charity works to provide specialist therapeutic support for children affected by trauma and conflict, offering them the resilience to build a more hopeful future. The House believes that this work is a contemporary expression of the ancient duty to protect the vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her predecessor’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s life is a profound reminder that duty and leadership have never been exclusively male domains. Her story is not merely a historical footnote; it is a foundational text for the Barony. It teaches us that true authority is earned through responsibility, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the community one serves.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The account of Nichola’s defence of Lincoln Castle demonstrates that fortitude is timeless. The challenges change, but the human spirit required to meet them does not. Her example inspires us to ensure the legacy we build today is as resilient and honourable as the one we inherited.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The lessons drawn from the life of Nichola de la Haye are actively woven into the stewardship of the House. They form a key part of the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, ensuring that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* are carried forward to the next generation.
Furthermore, these values are disseminated through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette and protocol academy. The Club’s curriculum, while focused on contemporary social graces, is rooted in the classical virtues of honour, service, and civic responsibility exemplified by figures like the fifth Baron. In this manner, the legacy of service continues to evolve, adapt, and find new expression.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to stewarding one of England's most ancient titles. The House's modern mission blends the preservation of its nine-century heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, primarily through its annual Winter Banquet. Through initiatives like its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House promotes the classical virtues of honour and civic duty for a contemporary audience. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby, located in Lincolnshire, England, is a Barony by Tenure granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a Tenant-in-Chief possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father to King Henry IV. After centuries in abeyance, the dignity of the title was formally recognised and recorded for the current holder by notice in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to 1066 and its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron, d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron, d. 1361), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron, d. 1399). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com