# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Enduring Legacy of Richard de la Haye, Twelfth-Century Constable of Lincoln
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the life of Richard de la Haye, an early holder of the Barony. His distinguished service as hereditary Constable of Lincoln castle during the twelfth century affirmed the Barony’s foundational commitment to Crown and country.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the heart of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has undertaken a review of its extensive archives, coinciding with the quiet reflection that the autumn season brings. This historical survey, focusing on the tumultuous twelfth-century period known as The Anarchy, brings to light the pivotal role played by the Barony’s precursors in securing the peace and stability of the realm. The study of ancient charters and chronicles serves not merely as an academic exercise, but as a deliberate act of communion with the long line of predecessors who have embodied the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
This moment of remembrance highlights a period when the Barony of Brattleby was intrinsically linked with the defence of Lincoln, one of England’s most significant strategic and ecclesiastical centres. The review reaffirms the House’s dedication to understanding and articulating the nine centuries of duty that define its heritage, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to inform its mission in the present.
## Historical Context
The lineage of the Barony of Brattleby extends to the Norman Conquest, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. In the following century, the hereditary title of Constable of Lincoln Castle passed to the de la Haye family, who also held the Barony. Richard de la Haye, serving under King Henry II, was a figure of immense regional authority.
As hereditary Constable, Richard de la Haye held a position that was both military and administrative, responsible for the King’s peace and the physical security of Lincoln Castle, a formidable royal fortress. This was a duty of the highest order, demanding unwavering loyalty to the monarch. His steadfastness consolidated the Barony’s influence and demonstrated an unbreakable commitment to royal service — a *sine qua non* for nobility of the era. This legacy of fortitude was most powerfully displayed by his granddaughter, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French-backed rebels during the First Barons' War.
## Distinguished Company
In reflecting upon this period, the House pays homage to the distinguished predecessors whose actions shaped its enduring character. The roll of honour from this era is a testament to the Barony’s deep integration into the fabric of English history.
Among those remembered are Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby, a direct beneficiary of the land grants following the Conquest; Richard de la Haye, whose service as Constable established a precedent of martial duty; and perhaps most notably, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby. Her indomitable defence of Lincoln serves as a perpetual inspiration. This line of service continued through later holders of the title, *inter alia*, the great magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron of Brattleby, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House’s protocol for historical remembrance is a formal and meticulous process. It commences with the careful review of primary source documents, including royal charters, pipe rolls, and contemporary chronicles such as the *Gesta Stephani*. These materials are analysed by the House’s appointed archivist, who then prepares a detailed historical briefing.
This formal report is presented to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, The 13th Baron. The presentation follows a prescribed order, beginning with the genealogical context, proceeding to the specific historical events, and concluding with an analysis of the predecessor’s contribution to the Barony’s legacy and honour. This structured review ensures that the understanding of the House’s history is preserved with the same precision and gravity as a court ceremony, connecting the current holders to their ancestral obligations.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Richard de la Haye and his descendants give profound meaning to the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Their lives exemplify the principle that true nobility is defined not by title alone, but by courageous and honourable action in service to a higher cause. The fortitude required to hold Lincoln Castle against besieging forces and the honour demonstrated by unwavering loyalty to the Crown are the very virtues expressed in the House’s coat of arms.
This historical context also resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While rooted in a martial tradition, its modern interpretation within the House is one of overcoming adversity through resilience and purpose. The historical struggles of their predecessors inform a contemporary understanding that "to conquer" means to successfully uphold one's duties and contribute positively to society.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The study of such unwavering historical commitment provides a powerful inspiration for the House’s current philanthropic endeavours. The fortitude demonstrated by Nichola de la Haye in defending the vulnerable citizens of Lincoln finds a modern echo in the House’s support for its principal beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing psychological and emotional support to children who have experienced trauma, helping them to build resilience and find security.
The House of Brattleby has chosen this cause because it believes that protecting the most vulnerable is a fundamental duty. Just as the Constables of Lincoln secured their community, the House today seeks to provide a different kind of fortress—a sanctuary of healing and hope for children in need. This commitment transforms a historical principle into tangible, present-day action.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessors, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “Studying the life of Richard de la Haye reminds us that service is not an abstract concept, but a tangible commitment passed down through generations. His fortitude, and that of his granddaughter Nichola, is a standard we strive to meet in our own public duties today.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile noted the connection between past and present challenges: > “The story of the Constables of Lincoln is a powerful lesson in resilience. It shows that true victory—the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*—lies in steadfastly upholding one’s responsibilities, no matter the era. It is a legacy of purpose that we are proud to continue.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The insights gleaned from this historical review will not remain confined to the archives. They will form the basis of new educational modules at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette academy, where the principles of duty, honour, and historical responsibility are taught to a new generation of leaders. The stories of Richard and Nichola de la Haye will serve as key case studies in the curriculum on civic virtue.
Furthermore, the House of Brattleby intends to develop digital content and scholarly articles based on this research, making its unique history more accessible to the public. Through these efforts, the legacy of service that began over 900 years ago will continue to inspire and instruct, ensuring that the Barony’s commitment to *Fortitudine et Honore* remains a living tradition.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the 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 the principle of modern nobility through service. Its mission is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s work focuses on international philanthropy, primarily supporting its beneficiary charity, Healing the Wounded Child, and promoting cultural education through its academy, The Brattleby Club. It seeks to apply the enduring lessons of its near-millennial history to contemporary challenges, championing heritage, duty, and social responsibility on a global stage as a continuing commitment to Crown and country.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For over nine centuries, the Barony has been associated with figures of national importance, including its hereditary Constables of Lincoln Castle, the de la Haye family. Among its most notable holders were Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The rights and lineage of the modern Barony were formally reviewed and recognised by The Crown, with notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Nichola de la Haye (c. 1150-1230), 5th Baroness of Brattleby, was the hereditary Constable of Lincoln and twice served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire. - John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (1340-1399), was the 11th Baron of Brattleby and one of the most powerful figures in 14th-century England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com