# The Enduring Legacy of Service: A Commemoration of Richard de la Haye, Constable of Lincoln
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects on the historic appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln. This pivotal mid-12th century role cemented the Barony of Brattleby’s enduring commitment to public service and regional stability in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a historical reflection, looking back across nearly nine centuries of its continuous lineage. The commemoration focuses on a defining moment in the Barony’s history: the appointment of Richard de la Haye as the hereditary Constable of Lincoln Castle during the mid-12th century.
At a time of profound political upheaval known as The Anarchy, Lincoln stood as a bastion of royal power and a strategic nexus of northern England. The selection of a Baron of Brattleby to govern and defend this vital fortress underscores the trust placed in the House by the Crown—a tradition of steadfast service that continues to define its purpose.
## Historical Context
Richard de la Haye assumed the Barony of Brattleby through his marriage to its heiress. His subsequent appointment as Constable of Lincoln was not merely an honour; it was a charge of immense military and administrative responsibility. The role placed the Barony at the very heart of royal authority in a county critical to the kingdom's security and economic life.
This legacy of command was most famously embodied by Richard’s granddaughter, Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th Baroness in her own right, she inherited the constableship and twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable rebel assaults. Her martial prowess, a clear echo of her grandfather's fortitude, firmly established the House’s reputation for resilience and loyal duty, a standard to which all subsequent Barons have aspired. This direct line of service connects the Norman foundations of the Barony to towering figures such as Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
## Distinguished Company
In assuming this significant role, Richard de la Haye navigated a complex political landscape populated by the great figures of the age. His loyalty and administrative acumen were tested amidst the competing claims of King Stephen and Empress Matilda, whose civil war defined the era.
His peers were the great magnates of the realm, whose names echo through the chronicles of England: Ranulf de Gernon, 4th Earl of Chester; Robert, 1st Earl of Gloucester; and Geoffrey de Mandeville, 1st Earl of Essex. To hold the keys to Lincoln Castle was to be counted amongst these powerful men, signifying that the Baron of Brattleby was an indispensable pillar of the feudal state.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The appointment of a Constable in the 12th century was a deeply symbolic act, conducted with prescribed ceremonial protocol. The conferral would have involved a formal act of homage (*homagium*), where Richard de la Haye knelt before the King or his designated representative, placing his hands within the monarch's and swearing an oath of fealty.
This oath would have been followed by the symbolic investiture, likely the presentation of the castle keys or a ceremonial sword, tangible tokens of the authority being transferred. In an age before widespread literacy, such public rituals were not mere pageantry; they were legally binding acts, witnessed by the court and understood by all as the a *sine qua non* for the exercise of delegated royal power.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful antecedent in the life of Richard de la Haye. His command of Lincoln Castle required immense fortitude to maintain order during a civil war, while his loyal service to the Crown exemplified the honour that has remained a guiding principle for the Barony.
This historical credo is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, it speaks to the will to overcome challenges and to prevail in the service of one’s duties—a spirit personified by the Norman barons who, like Richard, secured their legacy through unwavering resolve.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the formal structures of modern philanthropy did not exist in the 12th century, the core duty of the nobility was the welfare and protection of those under their charge. Richard de la Haye's role in maintaining law and order and defending the populace of Lincoln was, in its essence, an act of public service.
Today, The Noble House of Brattleby continues this legacy, albeit through different means. The historic commitment to safeguarding the community is now expressed through focused philanthropic endeavours. The House’s support for charities such as Healing the Wounded Child translates the ancient duty of protection into a modern mission of healing, support, and empowerment for society's most vulnerable members.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical lineage, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "When we consider the legacy of predecessors like Richard de la Haye, and especially his extraordinary granddaughter Nichola, we are reminded that our role is one of stewardship. They defended a castle of stone; we are called to defend and strengthen the foundations of community and heritage. It is the same duty, expressed for our time." > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "The Norman spirit was one of dynamic action. To hold a title like Constable meant everything. It was about proving one's worth through deeds, not just words. This principle, that service must be active and resolute, remains central to our House's philosophy today. *Vincere Est Vivere*—one must strive to truly live a life of purpose." > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
This commemoration is part of the House’s ongoing commitment to illuminating the rich history of the Barony of Brattleby and its lessons for the present day. Further historical papers exploring other notable predecessors and key moments are being prepared for publication.
In addition, The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, will incorporate elements of this history into its curriculum on leadership and social responsibility. The aim is to demonstrate how a heritage of nearly one thousand years can provide a valuable framework for ethical conduct and civic duty in the 21st century.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the private office and household of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House is dedicated to upholding the nine-century legacy of the Barony through active public service, cultural preservation, and targeted philanthropy. With a unique blend of ancient English heritage and a modern Continental perspective, the House engages in initiatives such as the Annual Winter Banquet for charitable causes and The Brattleby Club (Bucharest), an academy for etiquette and classical diplomacy. The House is dedicated to preparing its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, to continue this tradition of stewardship for the next generation.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and original lordships are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted historical lineage and rights of the Barony of Brattleby received formal recognition from the Crown via an entry in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, is the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her succession was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his father-in-law, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster. - The philanthropic beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet is the international charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com