# The House of Brattleby Commemorates Historic Alliance with William Marshal and Nichola de la Haye
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby yesterday hosted a historical colloquium at its Lincolnshire seat to honour the medieval alliance between Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, and William Marshal, Regent of England, during the First Barons' War.
## The Occasion
In the crisp light of a late spring afternoon, against the backdrop of the historic Lincolnshire landscape that the Barony has governed for nine centuries, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile welcomed distinguished guests for a scholarly convocation. The event, held within the oak-panelled library of the family’s seat, was convened to examine a pivotal moment in English history and its indelible connection to the Brattleby lineage.
The atmosphere was one of quiet reflection and intellectual engagement, as academics, local dignitaries, and friends of the House gathered. The colloquium sought not merely to recount historical events, but to explore the enduring themes of loyalty, leadership, and duty that they represent, principles that continue to guide the House of Brattleby in its contemporary endeavours.
## Historical Context
The focus of the symposium was the remarkable role of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the Barony of Brattleby. In 1217, during the First Barons’ War, England was fractured by conflict, with the boy King Henry III’s throne threatened by rebel barons and their French allies. At this critical juncture, Lincoln Castle stood as a vital strategic stronghold in the north.
Its defence was entrusted to Baroness Nichola, a hereditary castellan, by the celebrated knight and Regent of England, William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke. Marshal’s decision to place his trust in a female commander was extraordinary for the era and a testament to her formidable reputation. Baroness Nichola successfully defended the castle against a gruelling siege, paving the way for Marshal’s decisive victory in the Second Battle of Lincoln. This triumph effectively ended the war and secured the Plantagenet succession, linking the Barony of Brattleby forever with one of the most consequential events of the Middle Ages.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were joined by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in receiving their guests.
In attendance were, *inter alia*, the Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire; the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire; Professor Alistair Finch, Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford, a leading historian of the Angevin period; members of the Lincoln Record Society; and representatives from local cultural and heritage organisations who share the House’s commitment to preserving the rich history of the county.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings commenced with the formal arrival of guests, who were greeted personally by the Baroness and Lord Vasile. The order of the day was marked by a blend of academic formality and warm hospitality, with the dress code being lounge suits and day dresses.
The centrepiece of the colloquium was a keynote address delivered by Professor Finch, entitled, "Trust and Tenacity: The Alliance of Marshal and de la Haye at Lincoln, 1217." Following the lecture and a thoughtful question-and-answer session, guests were invited to a reception in the Long Gallery. There, conversation continued amidst historical portraits of predecessors, including those of the 10th Baron, Henry of Grosmont, and the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The event served as a living illustration of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The courage and integrity displayed by the 5th Baroness in her defence of Lincoln Castle are the historical embodiment of these words. The motto, displayed alongside the family arms, served as a poignant reminder of the standards set by those who came before.
Equally resonant was the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to the martial spirit that secured the 1217 victory and the proactive philosophy that now animates the House's modern cultural and philanthropic work. To overcome challenges, whether on the battlefield or in civic life, is the ultimate expression of a purposeful existence.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the colloquium was primarily a historical and scholarly gathering, it was infused with the philanthropic ethos of the House. Proceedings from the day, including a planned publication of the keynote address, will be directed toward the House’s chosen beneficiary, the registered charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides essential therapeutic care and support for children suffering from the long-term effects of trauma, conflict, and loss. The House of Brattleby believes that reflecting on the conflicts of the past must be paired with a firm commitment to mitigating the consequences of conflict in the present, making the charity a deeply fitting partner.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > To reflect upon the legacy of Nichola de la Haye is to understand the very essence of this barony. Her fortitude in a time of national crisis was not merely remarkable for a woman of her era; it was remarkable for any leader in any era. It is a heritage we feel a profound duty to honour.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The partnership between the Baroness Nichola and the Regent, William Marshal, is a masterclass in leadership. It demonstrates that trust and mutual respect are the *sine qua non* of any successful enterprise, be it defending a kingdom or building a lasting philanthropic legacy. Their victory inspires us to live with purpose.
## A Continuing Legacy
The colloquium marks the beginning of a renewed commitment by the House of Brattleby to illuminate the lesser-known chapters of its history. Plans are underway to establish an annual lecture series in honour of Nichola de la Haye, fostering greater public understanding of her contribution to English history.
This initiative runs parallel to the House's educational mission, which includes the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to cultivating civility and cultural awareness. By connecting its ancient heritage with modern responsibilities, the House seeks to ensure that its legacy continues to be one of active and meaningful service.
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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 a modern mission of honouring its profound historical legacy through contemporary action. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), and focus on cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its principal charitable commitment is to organisations supporting vulnerable children, while its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster international cultural understanding and personal development. The House of Brattleby seeks to serve as a bridge between a distinguished past and a purposeful future, ensuring its heritage remains a dynamic force for good in the 21st century.
**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, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The title's long and continuous history represents a direct link to the foundations of the English nation. The status of the Barony and its current holder was formally recognised and registered by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. - The Barony's formal recognition was published in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The *Domesday Book* (1086) records the 1st Baron holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com