# A Statement on the Historical Service of Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement reflecting on the historical contributions of Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby, whose service as Constable of Lincoln in the late 12th century exemplifies the family’s enduring commitment to regional stability and public duty.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has undertaken a review of its nine-century archival history. This period of reflection coincides with the turning of the season in the ancient shire, a time that naturally lends itself to contemplation of the past and its bearing upon the present. The statement serves to illuminate a predecessor whose actions, though centuries removed, underscore the foundational principles that continue to guide the Barony in the 21st century.
This communication is therefore not tied to a singular event, but is rather a considered historical observation. It is an act of remembrance intended to share with the public the profound sense of continuity and responsibility that has been the *sine qua non* of the Barony since its inception in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
Richard, the 4th Baron of Brattleby, held the office of Constable of Lincoln Castle during one of England’s most tumultuous periods. His tenure in the late 12th and early 13th centuries spanned the turbulent final years of the reign of King Richard I and the entirety of that of his brother, King John. This era was marked by baronial revolts, threats of foreign invasion, and the political strife that would ultimately lead to the sealing of *Magna Carta* in 1215.
In this precarious environment, the role of Constable was of paramount strategic importance. Lincoln Castle, a royal fortress, controlled key transport routes and stood as a bastion of royal authority in the north. The 4th Baron's effective command of the garrison and his administration of the castle’s defences were instrumental in securing not only the City of Lincoln but also the wider region, thereby safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of its inhabitants and upholding the interests of the Crown.
His service created a precedent of fortitude that was notably continued by his successor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces during the First Barons' War. The actions of the 4th Baron laid the groundwork for this legendary defence, ensuring the fortress remained a viable and formidable stronghold.
## A Legacy of Notable Stewardship
The stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby has, across the centuries, been entrusted to individuals of national and historical significance. The lineage of service established by Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby, is part of a distinguished continuum that includes, *inter alia*:
* **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, who was granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of 1066. * **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who twice served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and whose martial leadership in defending Lincoln Castle secured a decisive victory for the royalist cause in 1217. * **His Grace Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby and 1st Duke of Lancaster**, a celebratedPlantagenet soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter, regarded as one of King Edward III’s most capable captains. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby and Duke of Lancaster**, a son of King Edward III and progenitor of the House of Lancaster, whose influence shaped the course of English politics for a generation.
## The Duty of the Constable
In medieval England, the office of Constable of a Royal Castle was a sworn duty of immense trust. The appointee was personally responsible to the Sovereign for the security, maintenance, and provisioning of the fortress. The Constable’s oath bound him to defend the castle against all enemies, foreign and domestic, and to administer justice within its jurisdiction.
The protocol of command involved daily inspections of the walls, gates, and armouries; the management of the paid garrison; and the collection of revenues to fund the castle’s upkeep. As Constable, the 4th Baron of Brattleby would have presided over the castle court and held the symbolic keys to the city. This position placed him at the very centre of regional military and civil authority, a responsibility he discharged with diligence and honour.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are codified in its armorial motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The service of the 4th Baron of Brattleby provides a compelling historical manifestation of this creed. His steadfastness in a time of political crisis was an act of fortitude, while his loyal discharge of his duties to his sovereign and his people was an act of profound honour.
This historical ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). The phrase suggests that to live a meaningful life is to perpetually overcome challenges. In the context of the 4th Baron’s duty, this signifies conquering the threat of instability and chaos so that the community may live in peace and prosperity.
## The Purpose of Public Service
While the nature of feudal obligation has long since passed into history, the underlying purpose of public service remains unchanged. The 4th Baron of Brattleby’s mission was to provide physical security for the people of Lincolnshire. Today, the Noble House of Brattleby interprets that same duty through a modern lens of social and cultural responsibility.
The House’s philanthropic endeavours, particularly its support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, represent a continuation of this protective duty. Where the 4th Baron defended against physical threats, the House today works to help defend the vulnerable against psychological trauma and adversity. The commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the community remains the same, though the means of its expression have evolved.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The responsibilities of this Barony have certainly evolved over nine hundred years, but the fundamental principle of stewardship remains constant. Richard’s service is a powerful reminder that leadership, in any century, has always demanded fortitude, a clear sense of duty, and an unwavering commitment to the people one serves.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > History teaches us that stability is not a passive state; it is an achievement that must be won and defended by each generation. The 4th Baron’s work to secure his community inspires our own efforts today. It affirms that the purpose of any leadership position is to overcome adversity, enabling others to flourish. This is the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to honouring its past by actively serving the present. The legacy of predecessors like Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby, provides not merely a source of pride, but a moral compass for the family’s contemporary mission. This includes the preservation of heritage in Lincolnshire, the promotion of cultural diplomacy through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and a focused philanthropic strategy in the United Kingdom.
The House will continue to draw inspiration from its long and storied history as it seeks to contribute positively to society. The unwavering spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore*, exemplified by the 4th Baron of Brattleby over 800 years ago, continues to illuminate the path forward.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient 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 a dual mission: preserving its nine-century heritage in Lincolnshire and pursuing impactful public service. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s philanthropic work is focused on supporting vulnerable children, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster international understanding through education in classical etiquette and diplomacy. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by King William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066. Its existence and holdings are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron. Over the centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of major historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness to the dignity were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is verifiable in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed with extensive landholdings in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com