# On the Historical Significance of the Constableship of Lincoln
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon the enduring legacy of the Barony and its historic role in the governance of Lincolnshire, exemplified by the mid-12th-century appointment of Richard de la Haye as hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle.
## The Occasion
In a period of historical reflection, the House recalls a pivotal moment in the development of its ancient lineage. The appointment of Richard de la Haye occurred during the tumultuous civil war known as The Anarchy (1135–1153), a time when the security of a strategic fortress like Lincoln Castle was of paramount importance to the realm. The castle, a formidable Norman structure crowning the city’s Roman-era northern gate, was not merely a military stronghold but the very administrative heart of the county.
Richard de la Haye’s assumption of the Constableship placed the Barony of Brattleby at the epicentre of regional power. His tenure ensured that the authority vested in the Barony extended beyond its manorial lands to encompass the direct exercise of military command and judicial power in one of England’s most significant medieval cities. This responsibility underscored the family’s foundational role in maintaining order and upholding the authority of the Crown.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066, has been intertwined with the destiny of Lincolnshire for over nine centuries. As recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, the Barony’s initial endowment included 56 lordships, establishing it as a pre-eminent power in the region from its inception. The Constableship of Lincoln Castle was a role frequently associated with the family line.
Richard de la Haye’s service as Constable laid the groundwork for one of the Barony’s most celebrated figures: his granddaughter, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. As hereditary Constable and Sheriff of Lincolnshire, she famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War, demonstrating a level of fortitude that secured the throne for the young King Henry III. Richard’s own steadfast service during an earlier period of profound national instability was, therefore, a *sine qua non* for the subsequent heroics of his descendants.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The role of a 12th-century Constable of a Royal Castle was bound by immense responsibility and solemn protocol. Upon his appointment, Richard de la Haye would have been charged with the castle’s *vice-comital* duties, acting as the King’s representative. His responsibilities were threefold: military, judicial, and administrative.
Militarily, he commanded the castle garrison, ensuring its readiness and overseeing the maintenance of its formidable walls, towers, and keep. Judicially, he presided over the castle-gate court, which held jurisdiction over the immediate area. Administratively, he was tasked with collecting revenues and duties on behalf of the Crown. This suite of duties made the Constable the most powerful figure in the shire, a direct link between the local populace and the monarch.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of predecessors such as Richard de la Haye give vital context to the House's ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). His life exemplified the principle of fortitude through his command of a crucial fortress during a civil war and the principle of honour through his loyal service to the Crown. This ethos of resilient and principled duty has been transmitted through the generations.
This guiding principle is complemented by the personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to the active and determined spirit required not only to overcome historic challenges but also to sustain and build upon a legacy across centuries, ensuring its relevance for the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the form of service has evolved from military command to civic leadership, the core principle of duty to the community remains unchanged. The dedication demonstrated by Richard de la Haye in safeguarding the people of Lincolnshire finds its modern expression in the charitable endeavours of the Noble House of Brattleby.
This commitment is most visibly channelled through the House’s Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the primary fundraiser for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides essential therapeutic support to children affected by trauma, translating the historical duty of protection into a modern mission of healing and care.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical connection, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> “The story of Richard de la Haye reminds us that our responsibilities, while different in form, are born of the same spirit of service that has defined the Barony for centuries. Where he defended the physical walls of Lincoln, our duty today is to help strengthen our community and protect its most vulnerable members. It is a legacy we carry with immense pride, rooted in *Fortitudine et Honore*.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the importance of actively stewarding such a profound inheritance:
> “A legacy of nearly one thousand years is not passively held; it must be actively championed and renewed by each generation. Richard’s critical role at a moment of national crisis is an inspiration. It shows that true stewardship requires the courage to act decisively for the greater good, a principle that guides our work, *inter alia*, with The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and our philanthropic commitments here in the United Kingdom.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby continues to draw inspiration from the long and distinguished line of its predecessors, from Colswein of Lincoln to the great Lancastrian Duke, John of Gaunt. The principled leadership of figures like Richard de la Haye and Nichola de la Haye provides a powerful blueprint for modern service.
In honouring their memory, the House recommits itself to its contemporary mission: fostering cultural understanding, promoting education in civic virtues through its academies, and providing meaningful support to charitable causes. This nine-century story of service to Crown and community continues, animated by the enduring belief that true honour is found in devoted duty.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural diplomacy, education, and targeted philanthropy. With a unique Anglo-Romanian character, the House champions initiatives that build bridges between communities. Its principal activities include supporting heritage preservation in Lincolnshire, overseeing The Brattleby Club etiquette academy in Bucharest, and directing its charitable focus toward organisations that provide care and healing for vulnerable children. The House’s work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to principled service that has defined the Barony for nearly a millennium.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and extensive landholdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including the celebrated female castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), who defended Lincoln Castle for King John and King Henry III; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). The transfer of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially 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, naming Colswein of Lincoln as the 1st Baron and tenant-in-chief. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. - Notable historical Barons include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (Duke of Lancaster).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com