# A Statement on Richard, Fourth Baron of Brattleby and Constable of Lincoln
**LONDON, 23 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal reflection on the historical appointment of Richard, the fourth Baron, as Constable of Lincoln. This mid-12th-century role affirmed the Barony’s strategic importance and its unbroken commitment to Crown and country.
## The Occasion
From the seat of the Barony in Lincolnshire, this reflection is offered as an act of historical stewardship, acknowledging a pivotal chapter in the lineage. The appointment of the fourth Baron as Constable placed him within the formidable Norman walls of Lincoln Castle, a fortress whose ancient stones still dominate the city’s skyline. This was a place of immense strategic and symbolic power, particularly during the turbulent years of the 12th century, a period that demanded unwavering loyalty and military acumen from those entrusted with its defence. The role was not merely an office but a sacred trust, a physical manifestation of royal authority in a northern bastion of the realm.
This consideration of history serves to connect the present House with the enduring responsibilities of its past. It is an opportunity to look beyond the charter and the title to the tangible duties performed by predecessors, whose actions shaped the very definition of the Barony. The legacy of the Constable of Lincoln is one of profound obligation—a theme that continues to resonate through the House’s modern endeavours.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, has been intrinsically linked to the defence of the kingdom for over nine centuries. By the mid-12th century, during the tumultuous period known as The Anarchy and the subsequent consolidation of power under the early Plantagenets, the control of key fortifications like Lincoln Castle was a *sine qua non* of sovereign rule. Richard, the fourth Baron’s appointment as Constable, therefore, was a declaration of the monarch’s absolute confidence in his fealty.
This tradition of custodianship and defence found its most celebrated expression in the fifth Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges. The fourth Baron’s earlier service as Constable established the precedent and fortified the family’s hereditary claim to this critical role. His command laid the groundwork for his successor’s legendary fortitude, creating a continuous narrative of service that would later see figures such as Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt hold the title.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity as Constable, the fourth Baron would have been counted amongst the most trusted magnates of the realm. The position placed him in the direct administrative and military circle of the monarch, be it King Stephen or his successor, King Henry II. His peers were the great officers of state—the Justiciar, the Chancellor, and the Treasurer—and fellow castellans who collectively formed the backbone of Norman and Plantagenet royal power in England.
His duties would have necessitated regular correspondence and interaction not only with the Royal Court but also with the sheriffs, bishops, and landed aristocracy of the surrounding shires. Holding Lincoln Castle meant holding the key to the north of England, making the Constable a central figure in regional governance, military musters, and the administration of royal justice.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The installation of a Constable in the 12th century was a solemn affair, steeped in the obligations of feudal law. Upon his appointment, the Baron would have knelt before the King or his designated representative to swear an oath of fealty, placing his hands within the monarch’s and pledging his life and lands to the defence of the castle and the service of his sovereign. He would then be granted the keys to the fortress, a potent symbol of the delegated authority he now wielded.
The daily protocol of his office involved commanding the castle garrison, overseeing the upkeep of its walls and towers, and ensuring its stores were provisioned for a siege. The dress code was one of function and authority; in times of peace, the surcoat bearing livery colours, and in war, the full mail and helmet of a Norman knight. The order of proceedings within the castle walls was governed by strict military hierarchy, with the Constable’s word being absolute law.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful early expression in the office of the Constable. The defence of Lincoln Castle required immense fortitude, both physical and moral, while the sworn oath of fealty was the ultimate test of honour. The fourth Baron’s service is a historical anchor for this guiding principle, demonstrating that from its earliest days, the Barony was defined by these twin virtues.
Similarly, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the existential nature of the Constable’s duty. In a century of civil war and rebellion, to successfully hold a fortress was to secure life and order against the forces of chaos. The symbols of the office—the castle keep, the portcullis, the keys—all speak to a legacy of prevailing against adversity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this reflection is historical in nature, it is animated by a modern purpose. The unwavering sense of duty demonstrated by the fourth Baron and his successors provides the philosophical foundation for the contemporary philanthropic mission of The Noble House of Brattleby. The ancient obligation to defend a physical community has evolved into a modern commitment to protecting and nurturing the well-being of the vulnerable.
This spirit of guardianship is directly channelled into the House’s support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapy and support for children affected by trauma and abuse, effectively offering a fortress of safety and recovery. The House views this work as a direct continuation of its historic role as a protector, translating the duty of the sword into the duty of compassion.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical appointment, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “When we look upon the service of the fourth Baron, we are reminded that stewardship of this title has always been defined by duty, not merely by privilege. His command at Lincoln Castle was a profound expression of *Fortitudine et Honore*—a principle of active responsibility that we strive to embody in our own work today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the continuity of purpose across the centuries:
> “The Constable’s role was the physical embodiment of *Vincere Est Vivere* in its medieval context; to secure order against chaos is to ensure life continues. That same spirit of resolve informs our modern endeavours, whether in education at The Brattleby Club or in our unwavering commitment to our charitable obligations.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to the preservation and study of its nine-hundred-year history, viewing it not as a static relic but as a living source of inspiration and guidance. The story of the fourth Baron serves as a powerful lesson in the enduring nature of service, a lesson that will be passed to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
Future initiatives will continue to explore the contributions of those who have held the title, ensuring this remarkable lineage informs the Barony’s path forward. By understanding the responsibilities shouldered by their predecessors, the current and future holders of the title are better equipped to fulfil their own duties to society with integrity and purpose.
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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 a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), its activities are focused on meaningful community engagement and the promotion of timeless values. The House’s primary charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing critical support to vulnerable young people. In parallel, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and protocol academy founded by the family, serves as a centre for cultural education, preparing the next generation of leaders with the principles of decorum, respect, and social grace.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and holdings are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire under Colswein’s name. Over its near-millennium of history, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in the nation’s history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the first Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the current 12th Baroness was formally recognised by His Majesty’s Government and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s creation in 1066 and its Domesday Book entry of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln are matters of public historical record. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a hereditary castellan of Lincoln renowned for her defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. - John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and a son of King Edward III, held the title as the 11th Baron of Brattleby by marriage in the 14th century.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com