# On the Office of Constable of Lincoln Castle and its Connection to the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical commentary detailing the vital role of the Constable of Lincoln Castle, an office held by the 4th Baron, connecting the Barony's nine-century legacy of service to its modern commitment to civic duty.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this autumn season to publish a reflection on a pivotal office in its long history: the Constableship of Lincoln Castle. This commentary serves as part of the House's continuing educational mission, seeking to illuminate the profound responsibilities that have historically accompanied the Barony. By examining the past, the House aims to provide context for its current endeavours, which remain rooted in the service and administration that have defined it for centuries.
The statement connects the ancient stones of Lincoln Castle, a fortress of immense strategic importance since the Roman era, to the living heritage of the Barony. It is an affirmation that the duties of the title, while evolving in form, remain constant in spirit. This act of historical remembrance underscores the House's belief that a deep understanding of one's heritage is the *sine qua non* of meaningful stewardship in the present day.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been inextricably linked with the defence and governance of Lincolnshire from its inception. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships in the county, establishing the Barony as a principal feudatory of the Crown. This legacy of royal trust was tested and proven during the tumultuous 12th-century civil war known as The Anarchy (1135-1153).
During this period, Richard de la Haye, the 4th Baron of Brattleby, held the hereditary office of Constable of Lincoln Castle. This was no mere honorific; the Constable was the supreme military commander and administrator of a fortress that controlled key northern trade routes. Richard de la Haye’s steadfast loyalty and military acumen were instrumental in securing the region for Empress Matilda. His formidable legacy was continued by his daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces during the First Barons' War.
## Distinguished Company
The history of the Constableship places the Barons of Brattleby in the company of the most significant figures of the medieval era. The 4th Baron, Richard de la Haye, navigated the complex allegiances demanded by rivals for the throne, King Stephen and Empress Matilda. His decisions directly influenced the course of the civil war in the north of England.
This tradition of operating at the highest echelons of the state continued through subsequent holders of the Barony. These included, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, a distinguished diplomat and one of the founding knights of the Order of the Garter. He was succeeded by his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, a prince of the blood and one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century. Their stewardship reinforces the Barony's historical proximity to the Crown.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In the 12th century, the role of the Constable of Lincoln Castle was governed by a strict protocol of military and administrative duties. As the King's representative, the Constable held the 'keys to the castle' both literally and figuratively. His responsibilities included the command of the garrison, the maintenance and reinforcement of the castle's formidable defences, and the provision of all necessary supplies.
The Constable also possessed significant judicial authority, presiding over the castle-guard court which handled legal matters within the castle's precinct. He was responsible for the custody of important prisoners and the collection of royal revenues from the surrounding area. The effective execution of these duties required not only martial prowess but also considerable administrative skill, a blend of responsibilities that defined the character of the Barony of Brattleby for generations.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The actions of the 4th and 5th Barons as Constables of Lincoln Castle provide a powerful historical illustration of this creed. Their defence of the castle through periods of intense civil unrest required immense fortitude, while their unwavering allegiance to the legitimate sovereign demonstrated a profound sense of honour.
This spirit of resilience is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This speaks to the perseverance required not only to overcome adversity but to thrive and ensure the continuation of a legacy. Together, these mottos symbolise the House’s historic strength and its forward-looking determination.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical duty to defend and administer has, in the modern era, been translated into a commitment to protect and nurture. The focus of The Noble House of Brattleby is firmly on philanthropy and education, reflecting a contemporary interpretation of its ancient obligations. This is most evident in the House’s selection of Healing the Wounded Child as the beneficiary of its annual Winter Banquet.
Healing the Wounded Child is a notable organisation dedicated to providing specialised therapeutic care for young people affected by trauma and adverse childhood experiences. Its mission is to restore a sense of safety and potential to vulnerable children, offering evidence-based interventions that have a measurable, positive impact. The House of Brattleby supports this vital work, viewing it as a modern expression of the protective role its forebears once held.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "When we consider the legacy of predecessors like Richard and Nichola de la Haye, we are reminded that this Barony was built on a foundation of profound responsibility. Their duty was to defend a physical castle; our duty today is to defend the principles of honour and service, applying them to the challenges of our own time."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the continuation of this heritage: > "The strategic thinking required to hold Lincoln Castle in the 12th century finds a parallel in our approach to sustaining this legacy. One must anticipate challenges, act with resolve, and always understand that true success is not merely surviving, but ensuring that what you uphold flourishes for future generations."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its nine-century history is not a static relic, but a dynamic force for good. The historical account of the Constable of Lincoln Castle serves as an important anchor for the House’s future commitments. The fortitude and honour demonstrated by the 4th Baron continue to inspire the House's work.
This legacy will be carried forward through the House’s philanthropic endeavours, including its steadfast support for charities that protect the vulnerable. It will also be advanced through its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which seeks to foster an appreciation for etiquette and cultural heritage. It is through these modern expressions of service that the ancient spirit of the Barony of Brattleby continues to make its contribution to society.
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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. Based at its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural and philanthropic leadership, bridging its ancient English heritage with a dynamic, European perspective. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House actively supports charitable causes, with a particular focus on children's welfare through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. Through educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House champions the preservation and contemporary relevance of deportment, etiquette, and diplomatic protocol, ensuring its historic legacy informs and enriches the present generation.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient dignities, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its continuous history is documented from the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. For over 950 years, the Barony has been associated with the governance and defence of Lincolnshire. Among its most notable holders were Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness who served as Constable of Lincoln Castle and Sheriff of Lincolnshire in the 13th century, and later, the royal princes Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current succession is formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com