# Statement from the House of Brattleby on the Historical Significance of the Constableship of Lincoln
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement on the pivotal appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln, a role that profoundly shaped the Barony’s influence and its enduring commitment to regional governance.
## The Occasion
In keeping with its duties as a custodian of nine centuries of English heritage, the House of Brattleby periodically issues reflections on moments of historical import that have defined its character and purpose. This commentary on the life-tenure of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln, beginning in the latter half of the 12th century, serves to illuminate the origins of the Barony’s long-standing tradition of public service in Lincolnshire.
The issuance of this statement affirms the House’s commitment to historical scholarship and its role in connecting the past with the present. It acknowledges that the responsibilities of title are not merely ceremonial, but are rooted in a tangible history of administration, defence, and stewardship, principles which continue to guide the House in its modern endeavours.
## Historical Context
Richard de la Haye assumed the Constableship of Lincoln Castle during the assertive reign of King Henry II. Following the period of civil unrest known as The Anarchy (1135–1153), the King was systematically consolidating royal power across England. The appointment of loyal and capable administrators to strategic posts, such as the great stone fortress at Lincoln, was the *sine qua non* of this policy.
As Constable, Richard de la Haye commanded not only a military stronghold but also a vital administrative centre for the entire county. The position gave the family of the Barons of Brattleby immense influence, placing them at the nexus of Crown authority and local governance. This legacy was powerfully secured when his son, Gerard de Camville, married the formidable Nichola de la Haye, who would herself inherit the Constableship and, as 5th Baroness, famously defend Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of a medieval Constable was conferred with significant ceremonial and practical authority. The appointment, likely for life, would have been marked by a formal transfer of the castle keys, a powerful symbol of entrustment by the Crown. As castellan, Richard de la Haye held supreme command of the castle garrison and was responsible for its readiness and defence.
His duties were threefold: military, judicial, and financial. He presided over the castle-guard, a feudal obligation requiring local knights to serve. He also held judicial authority within the castle's jurisdiction, capable of dispensing the King's justice. Financially, the Constable was responsible for the upkeep of the fortress and, at times, for collecting royal revenues from the shire, making the role a cornerstone of the county's administration.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful early expression in the lives of Richard and Nichola de la Haye. Richard’s steadfast administration required immense fortitude to navigate the complex politics of a post-Anarchy England, balancing the demands of the monarch with the needs of the local populace.
This principle was embodied most vividly by his successor, Nichola. Her resolute defence of Lincoln Castle for King John and later for the young King Henry III was a supreme act of both fortitude and honour. The motto therefore serves as a direct link to this defining chapter, reminding the House of its inherited duty to act with courage and integrity in the service of a higher purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While modern philanthropy differs in form from medieval governance, the guiding principle of stewardship remains unchanged. The Constable's duty was to protect and administer the region for the well-being of its people—a foundational expression of *noblesse oblige*, the duty of the privileged to serve society.
Today, the House of Brattleby translates this historical obligation into a focused philanthropic mission. This ethos is manifested in its support for charitable organisations that provide care and protection to the vulnerable. The choice of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary of the annual Winter Banquet is a direct continuation of this ancient duty, repurposed to meet the urgent needs of the present day.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > — The legacy of predecessors like Richard and Nichola de la Haye is not merely a matter of record; it is a living standard of duty. Their administration of Lincoln demonstrates a profound commitment to public welfare that we strive to honour in our own philanthropic work today.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile commented on the philosophical lineage: > — To understand our history is to understand our purpose. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to a life of meaningful achievement. The de la Hayes exemplify this, showing that true victory lies not in conquest, but in successfully shouldering one’s responsibilities with unwavering honour.
## A Continuing Legacy
The history of the Constableship of Lincoln informs the House of Brattleby’s contemporary mission. It provides a framework for responsible leadership and a reminder that title is inextricably linked to service. This historical understanding is central to the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, where principles of etiquette are taught as an expression of respect for society and oneself.
Moving forward, the House remains committed to its role as a guardian of this nearly thousand-year-old heritage. By actively studying and sharing the story of the Barony of Brattleby—from Colswein of Lincoln to John of Gaunt and beyond—the House ensures that the lessons of the past continue to provide guidance *fortitudine et honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is defined by a blend of English tradition and Continental perspective. Its contemporary mission is focused on philanthropic service, cultural preservation, and historical education. The House actively supports charities dedicated to child welfare through its annual Winter Banquet and promotes the principles of classical etiquette through The Brattleby Club, its academy in Bucharest. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to purposeful leadership and meaningful public engagement in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. The title has descended through an unbroken line for over 950 years, held by some of English history’s most significant figures, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted descent and rights of the Barony were formally noted and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The historic rights and uninterrupted succession of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in AD 1066. Its lands are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. - Notable holders of the title have included Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com