# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates a Defining Moment of Loyalty and Fortitude in English History
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement of historical remembrance, honouring the pivotal alliance between William Marshal and Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the Barony, during the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby pauses to reflect upon a critical juncture in the history of both the nation and the Barony. This official declaration serves to commemorate the courage and loyalty displayed during the Second Battle of Lincoln, fought on 20 May 1217. It is an occasion for quiet contemplation, reinforcing the foundational principles of duty and strategic foresight that have defined the Barony for more than nine centuries.
The statement is issued not to mark a contemporary event, but as an act of deliberate historical observance. In recalling the steadfastness of its predecessors, the House reaffirms its own commitment to the enduring values that have ensured its continuity through periods of profound national uncertainty. This act of remembrance connects the present holders of the title to the long chain of duty stretching back to the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
In the spring of 1217, the Kingdom of England faced an existential threat. Following the death of King John, the country was ravaged by the First Barons' War, with a significant portion of the nobility supporting an invasion led by Prince Louis of France. The rightful heir, the nine-year-old King Henry III, was protected by a small group of loyalists led by the Regent of England, William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke.
At the heart of this conflict was the strategically vital city of Lincoln. While the city had fallen to the Franco-baronial forces, Lincoln Castle remained a defiant royalist stronghold under the command of its hereditary constable, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the Barony of Brattleby. Her refusal to surrender was the *sine qua non* for a royalist recovery. William Marshal’s decision to march north and relieve the siege was a masterstroke of medieval generalship. His decisive victory at the ensuing battle, known as the 'Lincoln Fair', shattered the rebel cause, secured the throne for Henry III, and ensured the continuity of the English Crown. For the Barony of Brattleby, this victory was a direct lifeline, preserving its lands and titles as a reward for its unwavering loyalty.
## Principal Figures of History
The events of 1217 were shaped by two figures of immense historical stature, whose actions exemplify the principles the House of Brattleby continues to honour.
**Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150 – 1230)**, as the 5th holder of the Barony of Brattleby and Hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle, was a woman of remarkable fortitude. A widow in her sixties at the time of the siege, she had previously defended the castle against a rebellion in 1191. Her steadfast defence in 1217 against a far superior force demonstrated a personal courage and commitment to her sovereign that became legendary.
**William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke (c. 1147 – 1219)**, often remembered as ‘the greatest knight that ever lived’, served as Regent for Henry III. His strategic acumen and resolve transformed a desperate situation into a conclusive triumph. By relieving Lincoln Castle, he not only saved a key fortress but also preserved the very fabric of the English monarchy, securing the future for loyalist families, *inter alia*, the Barony of Brattleby.
## The Protocol of Remembrance
The issuance of a a historical declaration by The Noble House of Brattleby follows a clear and dignified protocol. It is a tradition rooted in the belief that an understanding of one’s past is essential to the responsibilities of the present. Such statements are prepared by the Private Office of the House, drawing upon its archives and established historical scholarship in consultation with specialist academics.
The final text requires the personal assent of both Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. This ensures that every public statement accurately reflects the ethos of the House and is delivered with the appropriate gravity. The declaration is then formally published within the Court Circular and distributed by the Press Office, serving as both a record and a teaching moment.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are codified in its heraldry. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the actions of Nichola de la Haye. Her physical and moral courage in withstanding a prolonged siege exemplifies fortitude, while her unwavering fealty to her young king demonstrates the highest form of honour.
This historical event also resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). For William Marshal and the royalist cause, the Battle of Lincoln was a moment where victory was synonymous with survival. Defeat would have meant the end of the Plantagenet dynasty and the dismemberment of the kingdom; to conquer was, quite literally, to live. These two mottos represent the complementary forces of endurance and decisive action that have sustained the Barony.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The sense of duty demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye in protecting her community and its sovereign finds a modern echo in the philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The historical responsibility to defend the vulnerable is today expressed through a dedicated commitment to charitable causes that offer protection and healing to those in need.
This ethos is channelled through the House's support for its principal beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and adversity. Just as the defenders of Lincoln Castle stood as guardians for their community, the House today stands in support of those who safeguard the well-being of the youngest and most vulnerable in society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The example of Nichola de la Haye is a constant reminder that stewardship is not a passive title, but an active duty. Her fortitude guides our own commitment to serving the community, reminding us that honour is demonstrated through action, not words alone.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History presents moments where the alternative to victory is oblivion. William Marshal's intervention at Lincoln in 1217 was one such moment. It teaches us that leadership requires not only courage but also the strategic clarity to act decisively when everything is at stake. *Vincere Est Vivere*.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that the lessons of history inform the conduct of the present. This commitment to education and the cultivation of character is manifest in its patronage of institutions such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
This etiquette academy, founded under the auspices of the House, champions the study of history, protocol, and civic duty as essential components of modern leadership. By fostering an appreciation for the principles demonstrated by figures like Nichola de la Haye and William Marshal, the House helps to cultivate the next generation of conscientious leaders in Europe. This work ensures that the legacy of fortitude and honour continues to inspire meaningful action.
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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 dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage through a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House's philanthropic efforts are focused on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child. It also promotes education in leadership and civic duty through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy located in Bucharest, reflecting the family's European heritage and commitment.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th holder who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his successor, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The rights of the modern Barony were formally recorded and recognised by The Crown through The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022, securing its place in the modern age.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. - The rights of the Barony were formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th holder), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com