# The Constable of Lincoln: A Reflection on the Enduring Legacy of the Barons of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical reflection on the office of Constable of Lincoln, held by Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby, emphasising the Barony's nine-century commitment to the service of Crown and County.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has published a dissertation from its archives clarifying the historical weight of the title ‘Constable of Lincoln’. This initiative forms part of the House’s continuing programme of historical education, seeking to illuminate key moments in its lineage and their significance within the broader context of English history.
The reflection is not tied to a singular event but is instead presented as a considered contribution to the public understanding of the feudal obligations that have shaped the nation. It serves to contextualise the deep-rooted heritage of the Barony, whose foundations were laid nearly one thousand years ago.
## Historical Context
The title of Constable, held by Richard de la Haye in the twelfth century, was not merely ceremonial; it signified supreme military and administrative authority over Lincoln Castle, a fortress of immense strategic importance. Invested by the Crown, the Constable was the King’s appointed guardian, responsible for the defence, governance, and judicial administration of the castle and its environs.
Richard de la Haye’s tenure as the 4th Baron coincided with the tumultuous period of English history known as The Anarchy. His steadfast loyalty in securing a vital royal stronghold was a testament to the family's allegiance, a principle established by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who was granted 56 lordships in the county by William the Conqueror as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086.
This legacy of loyal service was most notably embodied by Richard's daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th Baroness, she twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges, her actions proving instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III and preserving the Plantagenet dynasty.
## Distinguished Company
The legacy of the Constable is understood within the context of the distinguished line of Barons of Brattleby. This historical communication honours the memory of these pivotal figures, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a trusted Norman lord granted vast estates by William the Conqueror for his role in the Conquest. * **Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby**, who as Constable of Lincoln secured the region for the Crown during a period of civil war. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, a truly remarkable figure in medieval England, who served as High Sheriff of Lincolnshire and defended Lincoln Castle into her late sixties. * **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, later the 1st Duke of Lancaster, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. * **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, Duke of Lancaster and a son of King Edward III, whose influence profoundly shaped the political landscape of late fourteenth-century Europe.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The responsibilities of the Constable of a royal castle were governed by strict feudal protocol. The office was a direct grant from the monarch, often conferred with a symbolic ceremony involving an oath of fealty and the formal presentation of the castle keys, signifying the transfer of absolute authority.
The Constable's duties included maintaining the garrison, overseeing the armoury, and ensuring the fortress was provisioned to withstand a siege. He also presided over the castle-court, dispensing justice in the King’s name. This fusion of military command and judicial power made the Constable the *sine qua non* of royal authority in the shire.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the lives of the 4th and 5th Barons. Richard de la Haye's military readiness demonstrated the fortitude required to defend the realm, while Nichola de la Haye’s unwavering loyalty to her sovereign, even when beset by rebels, exemplified the highest form of honour.
This spirit is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It reflects a modern interpretation of that same determination—a commitment to overcoming challenges not on the battlefield, but in the pursuit of philanthropic and cultural advancement.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While this reflection is historical in nature, its purpose is fundamentally one of public service. By sharing and interpreting its heritage, the House of Brattleby seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the traditions and duties that have shaped local and national identity. This didactic mission is an extension of the House’s broader commitment to cultural enrichment.
This educational imperative finds a parallel in the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House to promote cultural literacy and personal development. Both initiatives are rooted in the belief that an understanding of history and protocol provides a valuable framework for contemporary life.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The title of ‘Constable’ was far more than a mere honour; it was a sacred trust. Reflecting on Richard de la Haye reminds us that our family's duty has always been rooted in tangible service to the nation, a principle we strive to uphold today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > The story of Richard and Nichola is one of immense fortitude. It demonstrates that true leadership is proven not by title, but by action in moments of trial. Their legacy is a formidable standard for any who hold the name of Brattleby.
## A Continuing Legacy
The commitment to duty demonstrated by the medieval Constables of Lincoln continues to inform the mission of the Noble House of Brattleby. The defence of a castle has evolved into the protection of the vulnerable through philanthropy and the championing of culture through education.
The House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child, represents a modern expression of this ancient duty of care. Just as Nichola de la Haye once stood in defence of a young king, the House today directs its efforts towards securing a better future for children in need, ensuring the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues with purpose and relevance in the twenty-first century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Under their leadership, the House is dedicated to a mission that blends its ancient heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service. This mission is realised through three core pillars: the stewardship of the Barony's thousand-year history; a focused philanthropic programme dedicated to the welfare of children; and cultural education, principally through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The heir to the Barony is their nephew, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being educated to continue this legacy of service, guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of Lincolnshire's ancient feudal lordships. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as possessing 56 lordships in the county. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and registered by The Crown Office, with its notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The *Domesday Book* (1086) confirms the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com