# A Legacy of Service: The Office of Constable of Lincoln and the 4th Baron of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon its historical lineage of civic and military duty, marking the influential tenure of Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby, as Constable of Lincoln during the twelfth century.
## The Occasion
From its ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has issued a formal statement of historical commemoration. This act of remembrance, following extensive archival research, takes place in the quietude of the autumnal season, a time for reflection and study. The statement serves not as a public event, but as a considered reaffirmation of the foundational principles that have guided the Barony for over nine centuries. It is an intellectual and spiritual observance, connecting the present leadership with the long chain of duty-bound predecessors.
The focus of this reflection is the vital role played by the 4th Baron in the administration and security of the region during a formative period in English history. The occasion underscores the House’s commitment to understanding its past as the essential framework for its present responsibilities and future endeavours, a principle encapsulated by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## Historical Context
Richard de la Haye served as the hereditary Constable of Lincoln in the late twelfth century, during the reigns of King Henry II and King Richard I. This was a position of immense authority, combining the responsibilities of a military governor charged with the defence of Lincoln Castle—a royal fortress of strategic importance—and a chief judicial officer for the shire. The Constable’s office was the *sine qua non* of royal power in one of England’s most significant cities.
This appointment continued a tradition of service established by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who was granted 56 lordships in the county by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The 4th Baron’s steadfast governance solidified the Barony’s influence, paving the way for his celebrated successor, Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th Baron, she famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War, demonstrating the same fortitude inherited from her forebears. The lineage of civic responsibility continued through later holders, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
This formal act of commemoration is undertaken by the current leadership of the House, who are the custodians of this distinguished legacy. The historical reflection is directed by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby.
In their capacity as heads of the House, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan guide the modern interpretation of the Barony’s ancient duties. They are supported in this by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol for such a historical observance within The Noble House of Brattleby is one of scholarly rigour rather than public pageantry. It begins with meticulous research within the House's private archives and in consultation with leading medieval historians to ensure absolute accuracy. The findings are then synthesised into a formal declaration.
The promulgation of this statement follows a precise internal order. Once finalised, it is formally entered into the official records of the House before being shared with historical and cultural organisations with which the House maintains a close relationship, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This process ensures that the legacies of predecessors are honoured with the dignity and intellectual gravity they command.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 4th Baron as Constable directly embody the House's motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Fortitude was required to defend the castle and uphold the King's peace in a turbulent age; Honour was the indispensable quality of a high-ranking official entrusted with justice and administration. These twin virtues have remained the guiding principles of the Barony through the centuries.
This core ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic and forward-looking spirit required to translate historical legacy into contemporary action—conquering modern challenges with the same determination that his predecessors applied to the affairs of the realm.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical principle of the Constable—protecting the citizens and stronghold of Lincoln—finds its modern expression in the House’s philanthropic endeavours. The duty to shield the vulnerable is a direct continuation of Richard de la Haye’s mandate. Today, this commitment is channelled through dedicated support for charitable organisations.
The principal beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation devoted to providing therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced trauma. In protecting the well-being of the next generation, the House of Brattleby gives contemporary meaning to its ancient obligation of stewardship and defence.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the 4th Baron’s legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To understand our present duty, we must look to the past. Richard de la Haye's service as Constable was not merely a title; it was a profound responsibility for the welfare of the people of Lincoln. This enduring principle of stewardship, passed down through predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt, informs every decision we make today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the continuity of service: > "Legacy is an active verb. The fortitude shown by the 4th Baron reminds us that honour is earned through action. We strive to translate that historic commitment into tangible support for our community, embodying the spirit that *Vincere Est Vivere*—to conquer challenges, whether on a medieval battlefield or in modern society, is the essence of living a purposeful life."
## A Continuing Legacy
This statement, honouring the 4th Baron of Brattleby, is the first in a planned series of historical papers to be released by the House. This initiative will explore the significant contributions of key figures throughout the Barony's 950-year history, making the fruits of its archival research accessible to a wider audience.
Future papers will delve into the tenures of other notable predecessors, providing insights into their roles in shaping the history of both Lincolnshire and the nation. These publications will also serve as educational material for members of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette and cultural academy in Bucharest, reinforcing the connection between historical precedent and modern comportment.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern continuation of one of England’s ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its heritage while advancing a forward-looking mission of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s charitable efforts are principally focused on causes supporting vulnerable children, most notably through its annual Winter Banquet for the beneficiary Healing the Wounded Child. It also fosters cultural education through its international affiliate, The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy located in Bucharest.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship, first granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066. Its extensive holdings were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists Colswein as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baron who defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The modern rights of the Barony are formally acknowledged and protected, as recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's notice of rights was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to the Norman Conquest of 1066, with its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron and defender of Lincoln Castle) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster). - The annual white-tie Winter Banquet held by the House is a philanthropic gala benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com