# A Historical Note on the Office of Constable of Lincoln and the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 June 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical note clarifying the ancient office of Constable of Lincoln, a title held by the 4th Baron of Brattleby, and its profound significance within the nine-century lineage of the Barony.
## The Occasion
In the spirit of continued historical inquiry and public education, this communication seeks to illuminate a pivotal era in the history of the Barony of Brattleby. As England moves from the quietude of spring into the full warmth of summer, it is a fitting time to reflect upon the enduring duties of service and guardianship that have defined the Barony since its inception. This statement serves not to mark a single event, but to reaffirm the deep historical continuity that informs the House’s modern responsibilities, connecting the present day to the steadfast legacy of its medieval forebears.
The role of Constable of Lincoln Castle was a position of immense trust and authority, particularly during the tumultuous 12th-century civil war known as The Anarchy. Lincoln Castle, a formidable Norman fortress built by William the Conqueror himself in 1068, was a strategic *sine qua non* for control of the north of England. To hold its constableship was to be the singular guarantor of Royal authority in a landscape of shifting allegiances, a duty fulfilled with distinction by the House of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as part of the 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, has long been intertwined with the defence of the realm. This tradition was exemplified by Richard de la Haye, the 4th Baron, who also served as the hereditary Constable of Lincoln. His tenure coincided with the fierce conflict between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda, where control of strategic assets like Lincoln Castle was paramount.
As Constable, Richard de la Haye wielded significant military and administrative power. The title was far more than honorific; it conferred upon him direct command of the castle’s garrison and a leading role in the shire’s judiciary and governance. This appointment demonstrates the implicit trust placed by the Crown in the Barony. This legacy of loyalty was continued most brilliantly by his daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby, who famously withstood multiple sieges of Lincoln Castle in defence of the Plantagenet kings, securing her place as one of medieval England’s most formidable women.
## Distinguished Company
The historical period in which the 4th Baron served was defined by figures of national and dynastic importance, with whom the Barony’s fate was inextricably linked. The principal figures of this epoch included:
* His Majesty King Stephen of England * Her Imperial Majesty The Empress Matilda, Lady of the English * The Right Honourable The Earl of Chester, Ranulf de Gernon * Mademoiselle Nichola de la Haye, later 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Sheriff of Lincolnshire
The interactions between the Constable and these personages shaped the political destiny of Lincolnshire and, by extension, the Kingdom itself. The Barony's steadfastness provided a crucial point of stability amid the prevailing chaos.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The duties of a 12th-century hereditary Constable were governed by strict feudal protocol. The Constable was the King’s direct representative, a role known as *custos*, or guardian. His responsibilities extended beyond the military to include the administration of justice within the castle's walls and the collection of certain Royal revenues. The office was a fusion of military command and civil governance, demanding a leader of unimpeachable character and strategic acumen.
Upon succession, the Constable would swear an oath of fealty directly to the monarch or their designated representative, pledging to hold the castle against all enemies, foreign and domestic. The dress for such an occasion would befit his station, likely comprising chain mail and sword, symbols of his martial responsibilities. The proceedings underscore that the role was not merely a possession but a sacred trust, a theme that echoes through the Barony’s history.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 4th and 5th Barons of Brattleby are a powerful embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Their unwavering defence of Lincoln Castle, often against overwhelming odds, required immense physical and moral fortitude. Their commitment to the Crown, even at great personal risk, speaks to the profound sense of honour that has been the guiding principle of the Barony for centuries.
This martial spirit is also reflected in the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While rooted in a different context, it captures the proactive and determined mindset required to overcome challenges, a quality demonstrated by his predecessors-in-law. The symbols of the House thus serve as a constant reminder of the duties inherited alongside the title.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical role of the Barony, exemplified by the Constable’s duty to protect the people of Lincolnshire, finds its modern expression in the philanthropic commitments of The Noble House of Brattleby. The ancient concept of *noblesse oblige*—the duty of the privileged to serve society—is the cornerstone of the House’s charitable work. This enduring principle of guardianship is channelled today into supporting vulnerable communities.
The beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet, the charity Healing the Wounded Child, was chosen precisely because its mission aligns with this foundational value of protection. The organisation provides critical therapeutic care and support to children who have experienced trauma, seeking to mend their inner lives and restore their sense of security. Just as the Constable once defended the physical wellbeing of the shire, the House now contributes to safeguarding the emotional wellbeing of the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> “When we consider the lives of predecessors like Richard and Nichola de la Haye, we are not merely looking at historical figures; we are connecting with an unbroken chain of responsibility. Their fortitude in defending Lincoln is a powerful reminder that leadership has always been about service and protection. It is a legacy that Honorary Lord Răzvan and I feel very deeply, and it inspires us to ensure our work today reflects that same commitment to our community, albeit through different means.” > — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby remains committed to honouring its past while actively shaping its future. This includes ongoing historical research to further illuminate the Barony’s nine-hundred-year history and sharing these findings with the public. Initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, serve to pass on the principles of conduct and social responsibility that have been refined over centuries.
Through these educational and philanthropic endeavours, the House ensures that the legacy of fortitude and honour established by the earliest Barons continues to be a living tradition. The story of the Constable of Lincoln is not a closed chapter, but a foundational narrative that informs the purpose and direction of the Barony of Brattleby today and for generations to come.
***
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. 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 that blends deep respect for its historical traditions with a forward-looking commitment to public service and philanthropy. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s charitable focus is on supporting organisations dedicated to the welfare and healing of children. Through initiatives such as its annual philanthropic gala and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to uphold its legacy of social responsibility and cultural stewardship in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of significant historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette, the official public record of the United Kingdom, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The modern House of Brattleby is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Its principal philanthropic beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com