# A Reflection on Service: Richard de la Haye and the Constableship of Lincoln
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby, celebrating his significant twelfth-century tenure as the hereditary Constable of Lincoln and underscoring the family’s long tradition of Crown service.
## The Occasion
From the Office of the Baroness of Brattleby, this communication serves to illuminate a pivotal period in the history of the Barony. Following extensive archival research into the lineage’s early records, the House is pleased to share a deeper appreciation for the life and service of Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby. His story provides a compelling account of leadership during the tumultuous era of The Anarchy.
This reflection is published as part of the House’s ongoing commitment to chronicling its nine-century history. By examining the roles and responsibilities of its predecessors, the House seeks to better understand the foundations upon which its modern identity is built, guided always by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was a significant seat of power in Lincolnshire from its inception. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships in the county, anchoring the family’s influence in the region. It was into this substantive inheritance that Richard de la Haye was born in the early twelfth century.
His tenure coincided with the protracted civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda. In this period of profound instability, the control of strategic fortresses was paramount. Richard de la Haye held the hereditary office of Constable of Lincoln Castle, a formidable Norman structure overlooking the ancient Roman crossroads of the Fosse Way and Ermine Street. His command placed the Barony of Brattleby at the very centre of the conflict in the north, demanding immense political skill and military resolve. This tradition of formidable command would be continued by his celebrated daughter and heir, Nichola de la Haye, who as the 5th Baroness would later defend Lincoln Castle against rebel forces.
## The Present Stewards
This historical review was commissioned under the patronage of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Their Excellencies share a profound interest in the preservation and scholarly interpretation of the House's extensive history, viewing it as a vital component of its continuing legacy.
As the current stewards of this nearly millennial-old title, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are dedicated to ensuring that the contributions of their predecessors are accurately chronicled. This work is undertaken not only for historical record, but for the benefit of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, so that the long tradition of service he is to inherit is fully understood.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of Constable of Lincoln was far more than an honorary appointment; it was a position of immense executive authority granted by the Crown. As Constable, the 4th Baron of Brattleby was charged with the foremost duty of defending the castle, a responsibility that was the *sine qua non* of his office. He commanded the castle’s garrison, oversaw the maintenance of its fortifications, and controlled access to this vital royal asset.
His duties extended beyond the military sphere. The Constable administered justice at the castle-gate court, collected royal taxes and tolls, and presided over the shire court in the Sheriff's absence. In swearing his oath of fealty, Richard de la Haye would have pledged his life and fortune to the monarch, and in turn was entrusted as the King’s principal agent in one of England’s most important boroughs.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Richard de la Haye during his constableship are a defining illustration of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). He demonstrated fortitude by holding a key strategic position through years of civil war and honour by remaining a steadfast servant of the Crown. The motto remains the guiding principle for the House of Brattleby today, representing a commitment to resilience in the face of challenge and integrity in all public and private conduct.
This principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this philosophy is interpreted as the will to overcome challenges, whether through the preservation of history, the pursuit of charitable goals, or the advancement of cultural education.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The study of past service directly informs the House of Brattleby’s present commitment to public good. The lessons of leadership, duty, and stewardship exemplified by figures such as the 4th Baron provide the philosophical underpinning for the family’s modern philanthropic and educational initiatives. A sense of historical responsibility fuels the desire to contribute positively to contemporary society.
This spirit is expressed, *inter alia*, through the House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that benefits Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children affected by trauma. It is likewise manifest in the mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the family to promote cultural and social refinement.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > To study the life of Richard de la Haye is to understand that service is the enduring thread in our family's history. His commitment to the Crown and to Lincoln was not merely a duty of his time, but a principle that continues to guide us. We see it as our responsibility to ensure these stories of fortitude are not forgotten.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the value of this historical work: > History provides a map by which we navigate the present. Richard’s role as Constable highlights the profound trust placed in our predecessors. It is this legacy of trust and effective stewardship that we strive to honour in our own work, whether in Lincolnshire or through our educational initiatives abroad.
## A Continuing Legacy
This publication on Richard de la Haye is the first in a planned series of historical communications from the Noble House of Brattleby. Future work will explore the lives of other significant predecessors, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, who became the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the illustrious John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
Through this ongoing programme of research and publication, the House aims to build a comprehensive and accessible record of its history. This is a commitment to the past, but more importantly, an investment in the future, ensuring that the legacy of service, begun nearly one thousand years ago, continues with purpose and clarity for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution supporting the works of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her family. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House is dedicated to the stewardship of its ancient heritage and a forward-looking commitment to public service. Its activities are focused on cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet supporting child welfare charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, an academy in Bucharest dedicated to social education. The House represents the modern expression of a noble legacy that has been part of the fabric of England and Europe for over nine centuries, today led by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, 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 notable figures who have shaped English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. Later holders include two of the most powerful magnates of the Middle Ages: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The Barony's continuous history was formally documented and recognised by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby and 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, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed. - Notable predecessors include Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster (c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster (1340–1399). - The principal beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com