# A Historical Reflection on the Twelfth-Century Legacy of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the twelfth century, a pivotal era that solidified the Barony’s role as hereditary Constables of Lincoln Castle and established a profound legacy of steadfast loyalty to the Crown.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its commitment to illuminating the nine-century history of the Barony, the House of Brattleby has published this reflection on a period of profound challenge and consolidation. The twelfth century, marked by the civil war known as The Anarchy, was a crucible in which the character and resilience of the Barony were forged. This communication serves to contextualise the enduring principles that continue to guide the House today, illustrating the historical foundations of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
This account draws upon chronicle sources and archival records to provide a deeper understanding of the individuals whose actions secured the Barony’s prominence. It is part of an ongoing series of historical publications intended for public scholarship and to foster a greater appreciation for the continuity of service that defines the title.
## Historical Context
Following the Norman Conquest of 1066, the Barony of Brattleby was established under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. By the early twelfth century, the Barony and the crucial office of Constable of Lincoln Castle had passed by marriage to the De la Haye family. This inheritance would be tested almost immediately by the outbreak of The Anarchy (1135–1153), a devastating conflict for the throne between King Stephen and Empress Matilda.
During this period of national instability, control of Lincoln Castle was of paramount strategic importance, commanding access to the north of England. Richard de la Haye, as Baron and Constable, navigated these treacherous years with remarkable skill and unwavering loyalty to the Crown. His steadfastness ensured that Lincoln remained a bastion of royal authority, a decision that laid the groundwork for the restoration of order under King Henry II. It was this proven dependability that cemented the Constableship as a hereditary right of the house, a responsibility passed to his formidable daughter, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who would later famously defend the castle against French invaders in 1217.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of the twelfth-century Barony is shaped by figures of national and regional significance. Their roles and allegiances defined an era of English history:
* **Richard de la Haye**, who through his marriage to the heiress of Colswein of Lincoln’s line, secured the Barony of Brattleby and the hereditary Constableship of Lincoln Castle. His service during The Anarchy was instrumental in maintaining royal authority in the region.
* **His Majesty King Stephen** and **Her Imperial Majesty The Empress Matilda**, whose protracted struggle for the English throne formed the backdrop against which the Barony’s loyalty was tested and proven.
* **His Majesty King Henry II**, whose accession to the throne marked the end of The Anarchy. He recognised and rewarded the loyal service of Richard de la Haye, thereby securing the family’s position for generations to come.
* **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, daughter of Richard, whose early life was conditioned by the military and political realities of her father’s tenure. She would later inherit his fortitude and become one of medieval England’s most celebrated castellans.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The responsibilities vested in the Constable of Lincoln Castle were formalised through solemn oaths and strict feudal protocol. As the King’s representative, the Constable held powers that were both military and administrative, a *sine qua non* for maintaining peace and projecting royal power. The role entailed command of the castle garrison, the maintenance of its fortifications, and the duty to hold the castle against all enemies of the Crown.
Upon assuming the office, the Constable would swear an oath of fealty directly to the monarch, a binding promise of service. Furthermore, the Constable often served concurrently as the Sheriff of Lincolnshire, overseeing the administration of justice, collecting taxes, and presiding over the shire court. This fusion of roles made the Constable of Lincoln one of the most powerful officials in the kingdom, a position demanding absolute honour and unwavering resolve.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While formal heraldry was still in its nascent stages during the twelfth century, the principles that underpin the modern coat of arms of the House of Brattleby were clearly in evidence. The House Motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, finds its archetypal expression in the conduct of Richard de la Haye and his descendants.
*Fortitudine*, or ‘fortitude’, was demonstrated in the physical and moral courage required to defend Lincoln Castle amidst the chaos of civil war. It speaks to a resilience that is not merely passive endurance but an active, determined strength. *Honore*, or ‘honour’, reflects the paramount importance of loyalty and keeping one's sworn oath to the sovereign. In an era when allegiances frequently shifted for personal gain, the Barony’s steadfastness was its defining characteristic and its greatest asset.
## Philanthropic Purpose
This historical reflection, while not tied to a specific fundraising initiative, underscores the principle of duty that animates the modern philanthropic work of The Noble House of Brattleby. The sense of responsibility for the welfare of a community, as exercised by the twelfth-century Constables, is the direct antecedent of the House's contemporary commitment to charitable causes.
The unwavering defence of a locality in the past finds its modern expression in the support of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child, which works to protect and heal the most vulnerable members of society. The legacy of service is continuous, adapting its form but not its fundamental purpose across the centuries.
## In Their Own Words
In reflecting on this formative period, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile shared their perspectives on its enduring relevance.
> The story of the twelfth century is one of crucible and character. Richard de la Haye’s stewardship during The Anarchy was not merely a matter of political survival; it was an affirmation of duty that paved the way for his remarkable daughter, Nichola. Their resilience is a lesson in fortitude that echoes through our House to this day. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> Looking at the pressures faced by the Constables of Lincoln, one understands that to lead is to endure. The challenges of that era teach us that true victory—true life, as our motto *Vincere Est Vivere* suggests—is found not in aggression, but in the unwavering defence of one's principles and people. It is a profound demonstration of *Fortitudine et Honore* in practice. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The lessons of the twelfth century continue to inform the mission of the House of Brattleby. The strategic foresight and commitment to order demonstrated by Richard de la Haye are principles that find new application in the House’s modern endeavours, *inter alia*, the Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The former gathers leaders in support of a vital cause, while the latter promotes the standards of etiquette and protocol that are essential for civil society.
By examining its past, the House reaffirms its commitment to a future defined by service, honour, and a deep respect for the legacy it has inherited. The fortitude required to hold a castle in the twelfth century is the same spirit that is now channelled into building and sustaining institutions that serve the public good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to preserving its ancient heritage while championing contemporary humanitarian causes. The House’s modern mission is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), focusing on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. The principal beneficiary of its philanthropic efforts is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to child welfare. Through initiatives such as its annual white-tie banquet and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster a spirit of service and civic responsibility, ensuring its historical legacy translates into tangible, positive impact for the future. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and initial holder are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of English history's most notable figures, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The ancient feudal Barony's modern standing and the rights of the current holder were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern rights to the Barony of Brattleby were formally gazetted by The Crown in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086). - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a county historically defended by the Barons of Brattleby as Constables of Lincoln Castle. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com