# A Historical Commemoration of Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby, Constable of Lincoln
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical notice commemorating Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby, whose twelfth-century appointment as Constable of Lincoln represented a defining moment of duty and influence for the Barony during a formative period in English history.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has dedicated this autumn season to reflecting upon the long chain of stewardship that connects its Norman origins to its modern responsibilities. This commemoration serves not as a singular event, but as a deliberate act of historical deference, honouring a predecessor whose service profoundly shaped the Barony’s character.
In a time of peace and consolidation for the House, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile have found it fitting to illuminate the contributions of those who upheld the family’s duties through eras of conflict and uncertainty. Richard, the 4th Baron, stands as a paramount example of this tradition.
## Historical Context
The 4th Baron’s service as Constable of Lincoln occurred during the turbulent twelfth century, a period marked by the civil war known as The Anarchy and the subsequent establishment of the Plantagenet dynasty. At this time, Lincoln Castle was not merely a fortification; it was one of the most strategically vital military and administrative centres in the Kingdom of England, commanding key northern routes and asserting Royal authority.
The role of Constable was a position of immense trust, granted by the Crown to a nobleman of proven loyalty and martial capability. It entailed supreme command of the castle’s garrison, judicial authority over the surrounding shire, and responsibility for the collection of taxes. By holding this office, Richard, 4th Baron, elevated the Barony of Brattleby from a significant landholder—a legacy established by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln—to a direct agent of Royal power. This appointment also laid the groundwork for his celebrated successor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who would later famously defend the same castle against siege.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity as Constable, the 4th Baron would have moved within the highest circles of Norman and Plantagenet authority. He served the Crown during a period that encompassed the reigns of King Stephen and King Henry II, requiring careful navigation of the era’s complex feudal allegiances.
His contemporaries included some of the most powerful figures in the realm, *inter alia*, the formidable Ranulf de Gernon, 4th Earl of Chester, and other great magnates of the North whose ambitions often clashed with the interests of the monarchy. The 4th Baron’s successful tenure as Constable demonstrates a remarkable capacity for both military command and sophisticated diplomacy within this challenging environment.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The assumption of the Constableship was a solemn affair, governed by strict protocol. Upon appointment by the monarch, the Baron would have sworn a sacred oath of fealty, pledging to hold the castle in the King’s name against all enemies. This ceremony would have culminated in the symbolic presentation of the castle keys, signifying the transfer of absolute authority.
The daily duties of the office were equally regimented. The Constable was responsible for the raising and lowering of the standard over the keep, the setting of the watch, the administration of justice at the castle-gate court, and maintaining the Crown’s peace. His command was the *sine qua non* of stability in a region frequently beset by unrest.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The service of Richard, 4th Baron, provides a powerful historical illustration of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). The defence and administration of a Royal castle demanded immense fortitude, or strength of mind and courage in the face of adversity. To do so with loyalty and to the benefit of the Crown was the very definition of honour.
This legacy of purposeful action resonates in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). Where the 4th Baron conquered the challenges of military command and political intrigue, the House today strives to overcome modern challenges in the spheres of cultural education and philanthropy. The instruments have changed, but the animating spirit of resolve endures.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this commemoration is historical in nature, its purpose is deeply connected to the House’s present-day philanthropic mission. The principle of stewardship, so ably demonstrated by the 4th Baron in his public role, is the same principle that informs the Barony’s modern commitments. The duty of care he exercised for the people of Lincolnshire finds a direct parallel in the House’s support for beneficiaries such as Healing the Wounded Child.
By understanding this long history of responsibility—a duty to protect and to serve—the Noble House of Brattleby deepens its own resolve to contribute meaningfully to society. Heritage is not merely to be admired; it is a standard to be upheld through contemporary good works.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, noted: > "The office of Constable was a profound public trust, binding our family directly to the security of the realm. In honouring the 4th Baron's service at Lincoln Castle, we reaffirm our House’s enduring commitment to duty, a principle that has guided us for over nine centuries."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "The 4th Baron's command exemplifies the meaning of fortitude. It was about more than military strength; it was about ensuring stability and protecting the populace through immense turmoil. That same spirit of resolve is what we seek to apply to the challenges our charitable initiatives address today."
## A Continuing Legacy
The story of the 4th Baron of Brattleby is a vital chapter in the near-millennial history of the Barony. The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to researching and sharing these accounts, offering a clearer understanding of the responsibilities that have shaped its identity.
This historical continuity informs all the House’s present activities, from the curriculum of duty and social grace taught at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest to the foundational purpose of its annual philanthropic endeavours, including the upcoming Annual Winter Banquet. The legacy of service, exemplified by figures such as Richard, the 4th Baron, continues to be the guiding light for the House’s future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to stewarding its profound historical legacy while embracing a forward-looking mission of cultural and philanthropic engagement. The House actively bridges its nearly thousand-year heritage with contemporary society through targeted initiatives. These include The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, and the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic gala in support of charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. With its seat in Lincolnshire, England, the House operates with a modern vision, guided by its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and holdings are first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details Colswein’s possession of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in 1066 for Colswein of Lincoln, whose holdings are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The family motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Historically significant holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com