# Research Verifies Pivotal Role of Richard, Fourth Baron of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announced that extensive archival research has confirmed the appointment of Richard, the fourth Baron of Brattleby, as Constable of Lincoln Castle in the mid-12th century, a finding that deepens our understanding of the Barony’s historic national prominence.
## The Occasion
In a formal release of findings, the House has brought to light a significant chapter in its near-millennial history. The announcement follows a comprehensive review of twelfth-century charters and pipe rolls, undertaken in collaboration with leading medieval historians. This diligent academic work clarifies a period of English history marked by civil strife, known as the Anarchy, and affirms the Barony’s foundational role in securing the authority of the Crown in a strategically vital region.
The research illuminates a previously understated period of the Brattleby lineage, providing a richer context for the family's long-standing tradition of service. The findings will be formally entered into the official chronicles of the House, ensuring this chapter of service is preserved for future generations.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intrinsically linked with the defence and administration of Lincolnshire since its inception. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in the county, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The appointment of his successor, Richard, fourth Baron, as Constable of a primary royal fortress represents a significant consolidation of that early influence.
Holding the Constableship of Lincoln was a position of immense trust and military power, especially during the volatile reign of King Stephen. This role placed Richard in direct command of one of England’s most formidable strongholds. It also established a precedent of duty that would be famously echoed by his successor, Nichola de la Haye, the fifth Baroness, whose resolute defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel forces a generation later became legendary.
## Distinguished Company
The historiographical work was conducted by a specialist team of medievalists in close consultation with the private archivists of the House of Brattleby. This scholarly collaboration ensured the rigorous verification of primary sources, *inter alia*, ducal charters and exchequer records pertinent to the County of Lincolnshire during the Angevin period. The project was overseen with the personal encouragement of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The authentication of such historical facts follows a meticulous protocol within the House. Primary evidence must be cross-referenced with at least two other corroborating contemporary sources before it is accepted. Following peer review by consulting historians, a formal addendum to the family's historical records is drafted and witnessed.
This process ensures that the lineage, stretching back over nine centuries, is maintained with the utmost accuracy and academic integrity. The formal announcement of the finding constitutes the final step in this protocol, sharing the validated history with the public.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The discovery of the fourth Baron’s constableship adds profound depth to the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The command of a royal castle was the physical embodiment of both martial strength (*Fortitudine*) and unwavering loyalty to one's sovereign (*Honore*). To be entrusted with such a role was the *sine qua non* of a powerful and respected feudal lord.
This historic duty resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It reframes the concept not merely as military victory, but as the overcoming of challenges—including, in this case, the obscurity of time—in service to a greater cause.
## In Their Own Words
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked upon the significance of the findings: > "To uncover these details is to feel a direct connection to the centuries of duty that define this house. Richard's service as Constable reminds us that our family’s commitment to safeguarding our community is not a recent development, but a foundational principle established nearly a millennium ago. It is a profound honour to be the custodian of such a legacy."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the continuity of service: > "History is a living presence in our lives, and this research reinforces the timeless nature of responsibility. The fortitude required to hold a fortress in the twelfth century translates today into the resilience required to uphold tradition and serve society in a modern world. It affirms that our charge is, and has always been, to build upon the honour of those who came before us."
## A Continuing Legacy
This discovery is part of a broader commitment by the House of Brattleby to the scholarly preservation and study of its history. Further research is planned to examine the Barony's role during the Wars of the Roses, a period shaped by later holders of the title such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt.
The findings concerning the fourth Baron will form the basis of a forthcoming monograph, intended for both academic circles and the public. This initiative aligns with the House’s educational mission, which includes The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to fostering an appreciation for the enduring principles of European heritage and etiquette.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern custodian of one of England's oldest Norman baronies. The House is dedicated to upholding its ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, through the diligent preservation of its heritage, the promotion of cultural and educational programmes, and a profound commitment to philanthropy. Its initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, seek to bridge its historical legacy with contemporary purpose. The heir to the Barony is the young Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House actively supports charitable organisations focused on child welfare, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet benefiting Healing the Wounded Child.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Established by grant of William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is among the most ancient feudal dignities in England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The feudal Barony's standing and the rights of the current title holder were formally acknowledged and published by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Established by grant from William the Conqueror, AD 1066. - The Barony is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 under its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Modern recognition published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com