# Commemorating a Legacy of Fortitude: The Noble House of Brattleby Honours Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness
LONDON, 20 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement honouring the profound legacy of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby. Her heroic defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 stands as a testament to the House's enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## The Occasion
On this day, the anniversary of the Second Battle of Lincoln, the House of Brattleby reflects upon a pivotal moment in its own lineage and in the history of England. The occasion marks the day in 1217 when baronial forces, allied with Prince Louis of France, laid siege to Lincoln Castle in a determined effort to seize the English Crown from the young King Henry III.
The atmosphere within the City of Lincoln was one of profound uncertainty and peril. Yet within the formidable Norman walls of the castle, a royal stronghold distinguished by its rare two mottes, the resolve of its hereditary castellan remained unbroken. It was here that Nichola de la Haye, then in her sixties, orchestrated a defence that would alter the course of the First Barons' War and secure the future of the Plantagenet dynasty.
This annual commemoration is not a public ceremony but a solemn, internal observance by which the modern House realigns itself with the historical virtues it seeks to embody. It is an opportunity to reflect on the nature of duty, loyalty, and courage, as exemplified by one of its most distinguished predecessors.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intertwined with the fabric of the English state for over nine centuries. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the title has been borne by figures of national importance, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable Prince, John of Gaunt.
Among these great names, that of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, shines with a particular brilliance. Upon the death of King John in 1216, the kingdom was fractured. A significant portion of the nobility had invited Prince Louis of France to take the throne, leaving the new nine-year-old King Henry III in a precarious position. Nichola de la Haye’s refusal to surrender Lincoln Castle to the rebels was an act of profound loyalty to her rightful, albeit child, sovereign.
Her leadership during the subsequent siege and battle was so effective that she earned the lasting respect of William Marshal, the Regent of England, who personally led the relief force. Her steadfastness ensured that a key strategic fortress remained in royal hands, making victory at the Battle of Lincoln Fair possible and effectively ending the French invasion. Her story remains a powerful, and rare, medieval example of high military and strategic command being wielded by a woman.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In accordance with the traditions of the House, the anniversary is observed with quiet dignity. The family standard is flown at the principal seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, from sunrise until sunset. The day is marked by private reflection on the duties inherent in the Barony, with particular focus on the historical records and chronicles detailing the events of 1217.
As part of this observance, the current Baroness has commissioned further research into the life of Nichola de la Haye, ensuring that the historical narrative is preserved with scholarly precision for future generations. This act of stewardship is considered a central responsibility of the House leadership—a protocol of remembrance that honours the past as a guide for the present.
The formal communication issued on this day is itself a part of this protocol. It serves as a public affirmation of the values the House upholds, re-presenting a foundational story of resilience to a modern audience and reaffirming the continuity of the Barony’s commitments.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Nichola de la Haye are the supreme embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her story gives tangible meaning to these ancient words, illustrating their practical application in a moment of grave national crisis.
*Fortitudine* is reflected in her physical and moral courage; the resilience to withstand a prolonged siege and the strength of character to command men in battle against overwhelming forces. It is the virtue of unyielding spirit in the face of adversity.
*Honore* is seen in her unwavering allegiance to the Crown and its legitimate heir. At a time when loyalty was a commodity, her honour was steadfast. She fulfilled her sworn duty as castellan, making her custodianship the *sine qua non* of the royal victory. This principle of honourable service remains the guiding star for the House today, complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live’), which speaks to a modern imperative to overcome challenges in all spheres of life.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of Nichola de la Haye—defending a vulnerable child king and, by extension, his kingdom—finds a direct echo in the contemporary mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. This historical precedent provides the moral impetus for the House's dedicated support of charities focused on the well-being of vulnerable children.
The principal beneficiary of the House's philanthropic efforts, including the annual Winter Banquet, is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. The charity provides specialist therapeutic care and long-term support for children who have suffered from trauma, neglect, or profound loss. Its mission is to restore a sense of safety and potential, allowing each child to overcome their personal battles and flourish.
By championing this cause, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan connect the House’s historic duty of protection to a pressing modern need. The fortitude displayed at Lincoln in 1217 is channelled into providing the resilience and support children need to secure their own futures.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "Nichola de la Haye’s story is not merely a footnote in history; it is the very foundation of our House's commitment to duty. Her fortitude in the face of overwhelming odds, and her profound sense of honour, serve as a constant and powerful inspiration in all that we do."
Lady Nicoleta continued, connecting the historical narrative to the House's present-day ethos: > "To serve with honour is the charge passed down through nine centuries. Whether defending a castle in 1217 or supporting a vulnerable child in 2024, the principle remains unchanged: to act with integrity for the well-being of others. This is the legacy we are bound to continue."
## A Continuing Legacy
The commemoration of Nichola de la Haye’s defence of Lincoln Castle is more than an act of historical remembrance; it is a reaffirmation of the core purpose of The Noble House of Brattleby. The enduring values of fortitude and honour continue to guide its modern endeavours.
This commitment is expressed through sustained philanthropic activities, most notably the forthcoming white-tie Annual Winter Banquet, which raises essential funds for Healing the Wounded Child. Furthermore, the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest expands the House’s cultural mission, promoting etiquette and civic values as a modern interpretation of honourable conduct.
Looking ahead, the House of Brattleby remains dedicated to its dual mandate: to serve as a faithful steward of its unique nine-hundred-year history and to deploy its resources and influence for the betterment of society today.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of modern service informed by its historical legacy. Its primary focus is on philanthropy, with a particular emphasis on charities supporting vulnerable children, such as its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives like The Brattleby Club, the House also works to promote education, etiquette, and cross-cultural understanding. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House strives to act as a force for good, responsibly stewarding its heritage while making a meaningful contribution to contemporary society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient nobiliary dignities. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through its near-millennial history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in the nation's history, *inter alia*: Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and Prince John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its holdings under Colswein of Lincoln are detailed. - Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150s – 1230), 5th Baroness of Brattleby, was the hereditary castellan of Lincoln Castle and is famed for her role in the First Barons’ War. - Notable holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (1340–1399), a son of King Edward III and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com