# On the Legacy of Richard de la Haye, Fourth Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a reflection upon the historical tenure of Richard de la Haye, the fourth Baron of Brattleby, whose service as Constable of Lincoln in the 12th century exemplified the Barony’s enduring commitment to public duty.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby regularly surveys the extensive nine-century history of the Barony. In the quiet of the autumn season, a time for reflection and archival review, the House recalls the significant contributions of its antecedents. This historical perspective serves as a vital touchstone, informing the present duties and future aspirations of the House under its current custodian, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
The focus of this reflection is Richard de la Haye, a pivotal figure who navigated the turbulent political landscape of 12th-century England. His tenure as the fourth Baron represents a critical chapter in the consolidation of the family's influence and its unwavering service to the Crown, a tradition that continues to animate the House today.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was first held by Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. By the mid-12th century, the de la Haye family had inherited this significant legacy. Richard de la Haye's era was defined by the aftermath of The Anarchy, the bitter civil war between King Stephen and Empress Matilda.
Ascending during the reign of King Henry II, Richard de la Haye played a crucial role in the King’s efforts to re-establish royal authority throughout a fractured realm. His marriage to Matilda de Verdun further solidified his standing among the Anglo-Norman aristocracy. It was his steadfast administration that provided the foundation for his formidable daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye, the fifth holder of the Barony, who would later famously defend Lincoln Castle against rebel forces.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity as both Baron and Constable of Lincoln, Richard de la Haye moved within the highest circles of Anglo-Norman power. His fealty was sworn directly to His Majesty King Henry II, one of England’s most consequential medieval monarchs. He would have regularly engaged with the great magnates of the North and the Midlands, navigating complex relationships with figures such as the powerful Ranulf de Gernon, 4th Earl of Chester.
Serving as a direct agent of the Crown, his contemporaries included the kingdom's justiciars, exchequer officials, and fellow castellans who formed the administrative backbone of the Angevin government. This network of allegiances and rivalries was the *sine qua non* of political life, demanding immense strategic and diplomatic acumen.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of Constable of Lincoln Castle, which Richard de la Haye held hereditarily, was a position of immense trust and ceremony. It conferred upon him supreme military command of one of northern England’s most important royal fortresses. His duties included maintaining the castle’s garrison, overseeing its fortifications, and securing it on behalf of the monarch. The role was often combined with that of the Sheriff of Lincolnshire, giving him judicial and administrative authority over the entire county.
The protocol for such an appointment involved a solemn act of homage and fealty to the King. The Baron would kneel, place his hands between those of the sovereign, and swear a sacred oath of loyalty. This ritual, a cornerstone of the feudal system, symbolised a personal bond and a public commitment to uphold the peace of the realm — a duty discharged *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’).
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While the formalisation of heraldry was still evolving in the 12th century, the principles it represents were profoundly demonstrated by Richard de la Haye. The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore*, finds a clear antecedent in his conduct. His ‘Fortitude’ was displayed in maintaining order during a period of national recovery, and his ‘Honour’ was evident in his loyal service as the King’s trusted representative.
This historical example resonates with the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). Richard de la Haye’s success in securing his family’s position and fulfilling his duties was a form of victory, ensuring the survival and prominence of his lineage. His life affirms that meaningful existence is achieved through overcoming challenges with purpose and integrity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The medieval concept of *noblesse oblige* — the unwritten duty of the privileged to act with honour and generosity — is a principle that The Noble House of Brattleby has carried into the modern era. The civic responsibility demonstrated by figures like Richard de la Haye, who administered justice and protected the community, provides the philosophical underpinning for the House’s contemporary philanthropic focus.
This line of continuous duty finds its modern expression in the House’s support for charitable organisations. A principal beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, which works to provide therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma. This commitment reflects a belief that true nobility is measured by its service to the most vulnerable in society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her predecessor’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “The role of Constable was not merely military; it was a pact of trust with the sovereign and the community. This history reminds us that stewardship is a profound responsibility, and that same spirit informs our duties in Lincolnshire and beyond today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Richard de la Haye secured his family’s inheritance through strategic service during a volatile era. It is a powerful reminder that legacy is built not only on what one is given but on decisive action and an unwavering commitment to one’s principles.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The history of the Barony of Brattleby and its holders remains a central element of the House’s identity and educational mission. The story of Richard de la Haye, *inter alia*, forms a key part of the historical instruction for the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron. It ensures that the nine-century-long narrative of service, from Colswein to John of Gaunt and beyond, is understood and valued by the next generation.
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to preserving and sharing its heritage, both through archival work in England and through the cultural and educational activities of its institutions, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This dual focus ensures that the legacy of fortitude and honour continues to inspire and guide its actions in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of a significant English heritage. Its mission balances the stewardship of the historic Barony of Brattleby with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and education. The House actively supports charitable causes, most notably those focused on child welfare, through its annual philanthropic events. Central to its modern identity is the work of The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes classical European social values and protocol for a new generation. The House is guided by its ancestral motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of England’s most influential historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated female defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The modern rights to the style of Baron of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the title Baron of Brattleby was officially gazetted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with Colswein of Lincoln as the first holder. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. - The current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com