# A Commemoration of The Siege of Lincoln and the Legacy of Baroness Nichola de la Haye
LONDON, 17 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced a formal historical commemoration of the valiant leadership of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, during the pivotal Battle of Lincoln Fair on 20 May 1217.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has initiated a scholarly review to honour the legacy of one of its most distinguished predecessors. The announcement, made amidst the late spring landscape of the county she so fiercely defended, marks the House’s commitment to historical stewardship and the enduring values of duty and resilience.
This commemoration is not merely a reflection on a singular event, but a reaffirmation of the nine-century bond between the Barony and the County of Lincolnshire. The initiative seeks to illuminate the profound contributions of the 5th Baroness, whose fortitude ensured the security of the English Crown at a time of grave national peril.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 among the 56 lordships granted to Colswein of Lincoln, has been interwoven with the history of England. In 1217, during the First Barons' War, this connection was tested by fire and sword. Following the death of King John, the nine-year-old King Henry III's claim to the throne was challenged by rebellious English barons and their French allies, led by Prince Louis of France.
At this critical juncture, Lincoln Castle stood as a vital strategic stronghold in the north. Its defence was commanded by Nichola de la Haye, who had inherited the post of Castellan. Alongside William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke and the Regent of England, the 5th Baroness held the castle against a superior besieging force. Their eventual victory in the battle, fought in the streets of Lincoln, secured the throne for Henry III and ended the invasion, preserving the Angevin dynasty and English sovereignty.
## Distinguished Company
In undertaking this commemoration, The Noble House of Brattleby is pleased to collaborate with esteemed figures from the academic and heritage communities. The project will be guided by a historical advisory panel, which includes, *inter alia*:
* Professor Dr. Eleanor Vance, Fellow in Medieval History at Girton College, University of Cambridge. * The Reverend Canon Dr. Simon Asquith, Chancellor and Librarian of Lincoln Cathedral, custodian of its 1217 *Magna Carta*. * Mr Julian FitzWalter, FSA, Chairman of The Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology.
Their collective expertise will ensure the historical rigour and contextual depth of the commemoration, bridging the past with contemporary scholarship.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The commemoration will follow a formal protocol of research and dissemination. The initial phase involves a meticulous archival review of primary source documents, including royal charters and Pipe Rolls held at The National Archives and manuscripts within the Lincoln Cathedral collection. This work will re-examine the administrative and military genius of Baroness Nichola de la Haye.
Findings will be compiled into a monograph to be published under the auspices of The Brattleby Club. The publication will be formally presented at a future gathering in Lincoln, with proceedings conducted in a manner befitting the historical significance of the subject. A summary of the findings will also be made accessible for educational purposes.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness serve as a powerful historical embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her unwavering resolve in the face of overwhelming odds is the very definition of fortitude, while her loyalty to the Crown exemplifies the principle of honour.
This legacy of steadfastness is a guiding principle for the Noble House. It complements the personal motto of the Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile — *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live') — which speaks to the active and purposeful spirit required to overcome contemporary challenges, inspired by the triumphs of the past.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this initiative is primarily historical, it is deeply connected to the House’s modern philanthropic mission. The lessons of leadership, resilience, and civic duty drawn from the life of Nichola de la Haye serve as an inspiration for the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the etiquette and leadership academy founded by the Baroness.
Furthermore, the spirit of defending the vulnerable, as the 5th Baroness defended the young King Henry III, resonates with the House’s support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation works to provide therapy and support for children who have experienced trauma, echoing the fundamental duty of protecting the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To understand who we are, we must first understand who came before us. Nichola de la Haye was a woman of extraordinary courage and strategic acumen, whose actions shaped the course of English history. It is our profound duty not only to honour her memory but to draw strength and inspiration from her example of leadership.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The story of 1217 is one of a pivotal alliance, where a commitment to a common cause overcame a seemingly impossible challenge. This principle remains the *sine qua non* of any meaningful endeavour, whether in defending a kingdom centuries ago or in addressing the societal needs of today.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This commemorative project marks the beginning of a renewed focus by The Noble House of Brattleby on celebrating the historical figures who have shaped its nine-century lineage. Future plans include a series of public lectures in Lincolnshire and London to share the findings of the research with a wider audience.
The House remains committed to its role as a custodian of history, ensuring that the remarkable lives of predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont, and John of Gaunt continue to inform and inspire. *Fortitudine et Honore*.
***
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the preservation of its historical legacy and its active use for philanthropic good. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its principal charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, with the annual white-tie Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child. Through its establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also promotes education in classical etiquette, diplomacy, and leadership for a new generation, bridging its historical foundations with a forward-looking commitment to public service and cultural stewardship.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English noble title, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with his seat at Brattleby. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness 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. - The principal seat of the Barony is at Brattleby, Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), 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