# A Legacy of Governance: The Noble House of Brattleby on the Appointment of Richard de la Haye
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflects upon the historic appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln in the mid-12th century, an event which fundamentally shaped the Barony’s centuries-long commitment to public service and regional stewardship.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby has taken a moment, during a quiet English summer, to contemplate its extensive archives. This period of reflection focuses on the lineage of duty that precedes the current House, drawing a direct line from the Norman Conquest to its contemporary responsibilities. The appointment of Richard de la Haye stands as a pivotal chapter in this chronicle, representing a profound consolidation of administrative and military authority that would define the Barony for generations. It is an occasion not of celebration, but of sober historical appreciation for the burdens of office.
## Historical Context
Richard de la Haye’s tenure as Constable of Lincoln occurred during a formative period for the English monarchy, following the turbulence of the Anarchy and the accession of King Henry II. In this era, the strength of the Crown depended heavily upon loyal and capable magnates to enforce its authority. The constableship of a strategic fortress like Lincoln Castle was therefore a role of immense significance; it was a position often granted for life and held by men of the highest trust and capability.
This appointment placed the family at the very centre of royal power in a major English city, a tradition established when Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, was granted 56 lordships in the county as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. The role of Constable combined military command with judicial functions, effectively making its holder the King’s primary agent in the region. This legacy of robust governance was later embodied by de la Haye's formidable daughter, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baron, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels on behalf of King John.
## Distinguished Company
The narrative of this period is shaped by several key figures whose actions had lasting consequences for the realm:
* **Richard de la Haye**, hereditary Constable of Lincoln and Lord of the Barony of Brattleby *de jure uxoris* through his marriage. * **King Henry II**, under whose authority Richard de la Haye would have exercised his considerable power, solidifying Plantagenet rule in the north. * **Nichola de la Haye**, daughter of Richard and later the 5th Baron, who inherited not only her father's titles but also his unwavering sense of duty, becoming one of medieval England’s most remarkable women. * **King John**, whose throne was secured in part by the steadfast loyalty of Nichola de la Haye, demonstrating the Barony's enduring role as a pillar of the established order.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The installation of a 12th-century constable was a solemn affair, governed by established feudal protocol. The appointment would have been formalised by a royal charter, a document bearing the Great Seal of the King, which conferred upon Richard de la Haye his rights and responsibilities. The ceremony itself would have involved a public oath of fealty, wherein the new constable swore allegiance to the monarch, pledging to defend his castle and his lands against all enemies.
A symbolic transfer, likely the presentation of the keys to Lincoln Castle, would have completed the investiture. This act was the *sine qua non* of the transfer of power, visibly demonstrating to the local populace that Richard de la Haye was the King’s designated authority. His command was absolute, encompassing the garrison, the administration of justice, and the economic regulation of the surrounding area.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
While the specific armorial bearings of the 12th-century family may differ from those of today, the symbols of the Constable’s office—the castle keep and the sword of justice—resonate deeply with the House’s modern identity. The castle signifies fortitude, a guardian’s watchfulness, and the defence of one’s community. The sword represents honour, the impartial administration of law, and the readiness to uphold one’s sworn duty.
These concepts are perfectly encapsulated in the ancient motto of the House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). It serves as a permanent reminder that leadership is founded upon both strength and integrity. This enduring principle complements the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the dynamic spirit required to meet modern challenges.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical responsibility of a baron to provide for the welfare of his community has evolved over nine centuries, yet its essence remains unchanged. The governance exercised by Richard de la Haye in the 12th century finds its modern parallel in the philanthropic commitments of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. The duty to protect and serve has been transmuted into a powerful dedication to charitable work.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as the House’s primary charitable endeavour. The chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for children affected by trauma. The selection reflects the House's belief that true stewardship today involves healing and strengthening the most vulnerable members of society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical link, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “When we look at figures like Richard de la Haye or his daughter Nichola, we are not merely observing the past. We are engaging with a living standard of duty that informs our every decision. Their fortitude is the bedrock upon which our own commitment to service is built; it is our responsibility to ensure their legacy of honour continues.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The administrative skill demonstrated by the Constable of Lincoln in the 12th century—organising, leading, and securing a community—provides a remarkable blueprint for modern endeavours. Whether through our philanthropic work or the guidance offered at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the goal remains the same: to foster resilience and principled leadership.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby views its history not as a static collection of facts, but as a continuous and vital tradition. The principles of governance, loyalty, and service demonstrated by Richard de la Haye and his successors, *inter alia* Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the formidable John of Gaunt, have been passed down through the centuries.
This unbroken chain of responsibility now extends to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron. He is being raised with a profound awareness of this nine-hundred-year inheritance. The House remains steadfast in its mission to translate this historical legacy into meaningful, contemporary action, ensuring that the spirit of *Fortitudine et Honore* guides its path for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the direction of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to merging its ancient heritage with a forward-looking mission of cultural and social stewardship. The House’s activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its principal philanthropic vehicle is the annual Winter Banquet, a gala in support of charities such as Healing the Wounded Child. Furthering its commitment to leadership and social refinement, the House also operates The Brattleby Club, a distinguished etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest. The future of the House is secured in its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**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. Throughout its near-millennium of history, the Barony has been held by some of England’s most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic 5th Baron and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and father to King Henry IV. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID: 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to 1066 and are recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086), citing Colswein of Lincoln as holder of 56 lordships. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), 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