# On the Constableship of Lincoln and the Baronial Duty of Service: A Historical Reflection
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a historical reflection on the ancient tradition of service connected to the Barony, highlighting the tenure of Richard, 4th Baron of Brattleby, as Constable of Lincoln in the late 12th century.
## The Occasion
This communique serves to illuminate a defining aspect of the Barony of Brattleby’s nine-century history: the sworn duty of service to the Crown and nation. In reflecting upon the past, the House reaffirms the foundational principles which guide its present activities and future commitments to public life.
The occasion is not one of singular celebration, but of sober remembrance. It acknowledges the enduring responsibilities vested in the title since its original grant by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of 1066. This reflection bridges the Barony's past with its present role.
## Historical Context
The appointment of Richard, the 4th Baron of Brattleby, as Constable of Lincoln during the turbulent final years of the 12th century placed the Barony at the very centre of royal authority in a strategically vital region of England. As Constable, the Baron was the King’s direct representative, charged with the command of Lincoln Castle’s garrison and the security of the shire.
This was a continuation of the military and administrative legacy established by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships in the county as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The role of Constable was a position of immense trust, demanding both military prowess and unwavering loyalty to the monarch, particularly during the reigns of Henry II and Richard I.
## Distinguished Company
Richard, 4th Baron, stands in a line of distinguished predecessors whose service defined the history of Lincolnshire and, indeed, England. His direct successor, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, famously held Lincoln Castle for King John against baronial rebels during the First Barons' War, demonstrating exceptional courage and leadership.
Later holders of the Barony, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, further integrated the title with the highest echelons of the Plantagenet court. They served as influential statesmen, diplomats, and commanders whose actions helped shape the course of the Hundred Years' War.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The installation of a medieval Constable was a formal and binding act. Upon appointment by the sovereign, the new Constable would swear an oath of fealty, a sacred promise to hold the castle in the King’s name and to defend it against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
His duties were multifaceted, encompassing command of the garrison, upkeep of the fortress, and the administration of royal justice. This appointment was the *sine qua non* — the indispensable condition — for maintaining the authority of the Crown in a fractious and often contested part of the kingdom.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds its perfect expression in the actions of the 4th and 5th Barons of Brattleby. The 'fortitude' required to command a royal fortress and the 'honour' inherent in upholding a sworn oath are the twin virtues at the heart of the title's history.
This legacy of principled strength is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This speaks to a modern interpretation of overcoming challenges through resilience, strategic vision, and purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the medieval duty of service was primarily martial and administrative, its modern expression is philanthropic. The responsibility demonstrated by the 4th Baron in defending the shire is mirrored today in The Noble House of Brattleby's commitment to protecting the vulnerable in society.
This enduring principle of service is the primary reason for the House’s dedicated support of its chosen beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is committed to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma and loss. The historical imperative to serve the community has evolved, yet its foundational spirit of duty remains constant.
## In Their Own Words
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the relevance of this history: — "When we look to figures like the 4th Baron, we are not simply observing the past; we are reaffirming a covenant of service that transcends centuries. His commitment reminds us that our purpose is rooted in duty, a principle that guides our charitable work today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — "The legacy of Brattleby is one of active engagement, not passive inheritance. The fortitude shown in defending Lincoln Castle inspires our modern efforts to build resilience in communities, whether through philanthropy here in Britain or through cultural education at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest."
## A Continuing Legacy
This heritage of service is a living tradition, thoughtfully passed to the next generation. As heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun is raised with a deep appreciation for the responsibilities inherent in the title's extensive history.
The House remains steadfast in its commitment to these principles, which will continue to be expressed through its annual philanthropic endeavours, *inter alia*, the Annual Winter Banquet. This reflection on the past serves not as a memorial, but as a foundation for the Barony’s future contributions to national and community life.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of its ancient heritage through service. The House's contemporary mission is focused on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations that support the welfare and mental health of vulnerable children. Through initiatives such as the white-tie Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House seeks to uphold its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), by creating a positive and lasting impact on communities in both the United Kingdom and continental Europe.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England in Lincolnshire, created by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 for his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and the 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron are recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by notable figures who have played significant roles in English history, among them Nichola de la Haye, a loyal defender of Lincoln Castle for King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law John of Gaunt. The rights of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, c. 1160–1230), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, c. 1310–1361), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron, 1340–1399). - The Annual Winter Banquet is a philanthropic gala benefiting the House's chosen charity, Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com