# A Historical Note on Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical note reflecting on the life and service of Richard de la Haye, the fourth Baron of Brattleby, whose twelfth-century tenure as Constable of Lincoln solidified the Barony’s strategic regional importance.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its commitment to honouring a lineage of nearly one thousand years, the Office of the Baron of Brattleby periodically publishes historical perspectives on key figures who have held the title. This note serves to illuminate the tenure of the fourth Baron, Richard de la Haye, a pivotal ancestor whose public service during a turbulent era of English history set a remarkable precedent for his successors.
The issuance of this reflection is part of the House’s ongoing work to document and share its history, connecting the ancient responsibilities of the Barony to the duties of its present-day stewardship. It underscores the belief that understanding the past is the *sine qua non* for navigating the future with purpose and principle.
## Historical Context
Richard de la Haye’s ascendancy occurred during the mid-twelfth century, a period marked by the civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda, known as The Anarchy. In this volatile landscape, the control of strategic strongholds such as Lincoln Castle was of paramount importance to the Crown and a measure of a nobleman's influence.
As the fourth Baron, Richard de la Haye’s marriage to Matilda de Verdun brought him the hereditary office of Constable of Lincoln. This was not merely an honorary title; it conferred upon him direct command of one of England’s most formidable fortresses. His capable administration and unwavering loyalty throughout this period were instrumental in maintaining royal authority across Lincolnshire, cementing the Barony of Brattleby’s position as a cornerstone of regional governance and military affairs.
## Distinguished Company
The station of Constable placed Richard de la Haye in the direct service of the monarch, requiring him to navigate the complex allegiances of the time. He served with distinction under King Stephen and later secured his position under King Henry II, demonstrating a deft political acumen that was essential for survival and prosperity.
His marriage into the de Verdun family further allied the Barony with another powerful Norman lineage. This network of influential connections was crucial for the consolidation of power and the effective governance of the vast estates associated with the title, which, since the Domesday survey of 1086, included dozens of lordships under the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The duties incumbent upon the Constable of Lincoln were extensive and carried immense responsibility. Richard de la Haye was charged with the custodianship of Lincoln Castle, the command of its garrison, and the administration of justice within its precincts. He was, in effect, the King’s primary agent in one of England's most significant counties.
His authority extended to the maintenance of the castle’s formidable walls, the collection of revenues, and the mustering of levies in times of war. This combination of military, administrative, and judicial power made the Constable a figure of considerable gravitas, whose loyalty was a vital asset to the sovereign he served.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While armorial bearings were only beginning to be formalised during the twelfth century, the principles they would come to represent were already in practice. The modern motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful early expression in the life of the fourth Baron.
His steadfast defence of Lincoln and his honourable conduct amid civil unrest exemplify the fortitude required of a great lord. His life’s work serves as a historical precedent for the core values that continue to guide the House, demonstrating that honour is not a passive quality but an active commitment to duty.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The concept of noble duty has evolved over the centuries. Where predecessors like Richard de la Haye fulfilled their obligations through military service and regional administration, the modern House of Brattleby expresses its commitment to public good through focused philanthropy.
The steadfastness once required to defend a castle is now channelled into providing sustained support for charitable organisations. This dedication finds its contemporary form in the House's work with its primary beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation committed to providing therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma. The sense of duty remains, though its expression has transformed with the times.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the fourth Baron’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “Reflecting on the life of Richard de la Haye is not merely an academic exercise; it is a reminder of the enduring responsibilities of this title. His commitment to protecting Lincoln exemplifies the principle of service that we strive to uphold today, albeit in different forms.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the importance of this continuity of purpose: > “The Barony’s history is a study in active contribution, not passive inheritance. Richard de la Haye’s career demonstrates that to hold a title is to accept a duty of service. This aligns with our own conviction that to live a meaningful life is to be an active participant in the world — a principle captured in the personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The legacy of Richard de la Haye was most powerfully continued through his daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye. As the fifth holder of the title, she would twice defend Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces, most famously during the First Barons' War, earning a formidable reputation as one of medieval England’s most capable women.
Today, the commitment to legacy extends beyond remembrance to active education. The House, through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, seeks to foster an appreciation for history and the enduring European traditions of etiquette and civic responsibility. The Barony’s story, from Colswein of Lincoln to the present day, continues to be one of fortitude, honour, and service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the modern stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of its ancient heritage and the active promotion of philanthropy and cultural education. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House focuses its charitable efforts on organisations that support vulnerable children and mental well-being. Through its historical seat in Lincolnshire and its cultural initiatives abroad, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to connect its storied past with a meaningful commitment to contemporary public service. Its leadership is vested in Lady Nicoleta, with her son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, serving as the 13th Baron and heir.
**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 holding the 'Fee of Colswein', comprising 56 lordships. The title passed through several distinguished lines, with notable holders including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Following a period of abeyance, the Barony and its associated rights were formally recognised and recorded in the ownership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, confirming an unbroken line of succession.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster). - The House's philanthropic work is centred on its annual Winter Banquet, which benefits its chosen charity, Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com