# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Historic Shrievalty of Nichola de la Haye
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal communication reflecting on the historic appointment of its predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in the early 13th century, honouring her pioneering service to the Crown.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen the quiet solemnity of the autumn season to reflect upon a defining moment in its nine-century history. This formal statement serves to commemorate the exceptional tenure of Nichola de la Haye as High Sheriff, a role held almost exclusively by men. Her appointment stands as a testament to the enduring character of the Barony’s leadership, a legacy the current House is dedicated to upholding.
The communication is not tied to a singular event but is instead an act of historical observance, intended to illuminate a chapter of remarkable female leadership for a contemporary audience. It affirms the House’s commitment to honouring the fortitude of its forebears, whose actions continue to inform its modern responsibilities and philanthropic endeavours.
## Historical Context
The appointment of Nichola de la Haye, *suo jure* 5th Baroness of Brattleby, to the high office of Sheriff was an act of profound trust by the Regent, William Marshall, 1st Earl of Pembroke. Following the death of King John in 1216 and during the turbulent minority of King Henry III, England was embroiled in the First Barons’ War. A loyal and steadfast castellan, Nichola had twice defended Lincoln Castle against rebel assault, cementing her reputation for unshakeable resolve.
Her appointment in 1216, and her holding of the office until 1218, was therefore a strategic necessity as much as a personal honour. She was entrusted with maintaining the King’s peace, administering justice, and collecting royal revenues in a county critical to the Plantagenet cause. This distinguished tenure places her among other remarkable figures in the Barony’s lineage, including the founder Colswein of Lincoln; the great Lancastrian magnates Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
In her lifetime, the 5th Baroness moved in circles of consequence, her counsel valued by the most powerful figures of the age. Her chief patron, William Marshall, was widely regarded as the greatest knight in Christendom and served as the effective ruler of England during the young King’s minority. It was his recognition of Nichola's competence and loyalty that led to her historic appointment, bypassing countless male candidates.
Furthermore, her steadfastness was known to King John himself, for whom she had held Lincoln against French and baronial forces. This record of service illustrates a career conducted at the highest echelons of medieval statecraft, where her capability transcended the conventions of gender. Her life was inextricably linked with the architects of early 13th-century England, securing the foundations of the monarchy for future generations.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of High Sheriff in the 13th century was the *sine qua non* of royal authority at the county level. As Sheriff, Nichola de la Haye was the Crown’s chief executive officer in Lincolnshire, responsible for an array of solemn duties. These included the execution of royal writs, the collection of taxes and crown debts (known as the ‘sheriff’s farm’), and the maintenance of law and order.
She would have presided over the shire court, hearing legal cases and proclaiming royal ordinances. A key duty was the ‘view of frankpledge’, a system ensuring all men were bound to uphold the law. Her authority was symbolised by her staff of office and the right to summon the *posse comitatus*—a body of armed men—to pursue criminals or defend the shire, a duty she had already proven more than capable of fulfilling.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye provide the ultimate expression of the House of Brattleby’s motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her defence of Lincoln Castle and her subsequent administration of the county exemplify the physical and moral courage encapsulated by ‘Fortitudine’. Her unwavering loyalty to the Crown, even in times of profound crisis, speaks to the principle of ‘Honore’.
This historical ethos resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Nichola’s life was a victory of character and competence over adversity and expectation, demonstrating that to live a life of purpose is its own form of conquest. Her legacy is a cornerstone of the House’s identity, representing the triumph of duty.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this commemoration is historical in nature, its spirit is directly linked to the contemporary mission of the Noble House of Brattleby. The example of Nichola de la Haye—a woman who assumed a position of immense authority through merit—is a guiding inspiration for the House's modern initiatives. These are principally focused on empowerment and the development of personal character.
This ethos is evident in the House's support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to fostering resilience and strength in young people who have faced adversity. Likewise, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House, imparts lessons in social grace grounded in the belief that true etiquette is an expression of inner dignity and respect for others—qualities embodied by the 5th Baroness.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her distinguished predecessor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "Nichola de la Haye’s legacy is not merely a matter of historical record; it is a living standard of duty and resilience. Eight centuries on, her fortitude reminds us that true leadership is defined by courage, not convention. It is a profound honour to be a successor in a lineage marked by such strength of character."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The story of the 5th Baroness is a powerful lesson in service and capability. Her effectiveness as Sheriff demonstrates that titles and responsibilities are best earned through action. Her life’s work truly embodies the principle that to conquer challenges with integrity is the highest form of living."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to historical research and the dissemination of the rich heritage of the Barony. The lessons derived from the lives of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye will continue to inform the House’s public duties and its support for charitable and educational causes.
Future initiatives will further explore the contributions of key figures from the Barony’s history, ensuring their legacies are preserved and understood. Through these acts of remembrance, the House seeks to connect its ancient roots to its modern purpose, demonstrating that the principles of fortitude and honour are genuinely timeless.
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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 the modern embodiment of one of England's oldest baronies. With a deep respect for its nine-century heritage, the House is committed to a contemporary mission of service, cultural diplomacy, and philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), blending historical tradition with a forward-looking focus. The House actively supports charitable causes, most notably Healing the Wounded Child, and fosters educational development through its patronage of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy located in Bucharest, reflecting the House’s unique Anglo-Romanian character.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), the celebrated knight and diplomat Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken lineage and rights of the Barony are formally acknowledged by the Crown, as published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern House’s rights to the Barony of Brattleby are officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (d. 1399). - The principal philanthropic beneficiary of the House is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation focused on children's mental health and recovery from trauma.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com