# A Statement on the Historical Duty of Constable of Lincoln and its Legacy within the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a historical statement clarifying the significance of the office of Constable of Lincoln, a title held by the 4th Baron of Brattleby, and its enduring relevance to the House’s foundational ethos.
## The Occasion
In an effort to illuminate its nine-century history for a modern audience, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen to elaborate upon a pivotal role held by its medieval predecessors. This statement serves not as a response to a specific event, but as part of the House’s continuing educational commitment. It aims to provide deeper context on the hereditary duties that have shaped the character and principles of the Barony since its establishment in the eleventh century.
The release of this historical context aligns with the House’s broader mission to demonstrate that titles of nobility are defined not merely by privilege, but by a profound and continuous sense of obligation. Understanding the formidable responsibilities of figures such as the Constable of Lincoln offers a valuable perspective on the principles that guide the House today.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intrinsically linked to the defence and administration of Lincolnshire for nearly a millennium. This connection was powerfully embodied by Richard de la Haye, 4th Baron of Brattleby, who also served as the hereditary Constable of Lincoln during the tumultuous civil war of The Anarchy in the mid-12th century.
The title ‘Constable of Lincoln’ was far more than an honorific; it signified supreme military and administrative authority over Lincoln Castle, a royal fortress of immense strategic importance. The Constable was the Crown’s direct agent, responsible for the shire’s security and the enforcement of the King’s peace. This office placed the Barons of Brattleby at the very heart of national events, demanding unwavering loyalty.
This legacy of steadfast duty was most brilliantly exemplified by Richard's daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby. A figure of remarkable fortitude, she twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels, most notably in 1217 during the First Barons' War. Her resolute defence of the castle for the young King Henry III was a decisive factor in securing the Plantagenet succession, linking Brattleby directly to the preservation of the English monarchy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The hereditary nature of the Constableship of Lincoln underscored a protocol of perpetual readiness and inherited responsibility, a concept a *sine qua non* for the stability of the Norman and Angevin realms. The passing of the office from father to child—from Richard de la Haye to Nichola de la Haye—was not simply a transfer of lands, but a solemn conveyance of military and civic duty.
This succession was formalised through oaths of fealty to the sovereign, binding the Baron of Brattleby to the protection of the Crown’s interests in Lincolnshire. The role demanded that its holder maintain the castle garrison, preside over the local judiciary, and collect royal revenues. Such duties were central to the feudal system, forming a chain of obligation that stretched from the humblest tenant to the King himself.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The historical actions of the 4th and 5th Barons resonate powerfully with the ancient motto of the House of Brattleby: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The "fortitude" of Nichola de la Haye under siege and the "honour" of Richard de la Haye in upholding his oath to the Crown are not abstract ideals; they are documented historical facts that give the motto its profound weight.
This principle of dutiful strength is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While rooted in a different era, it echoes the same spirit of overcoming adversity, whether on the medieval battlefield or in the challenges of modern philanthropic and cultural endeavours. Together, the two mottos represent a continuum of purpose, from historic defence to present-day progress.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this chapter of the family’s history, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented:
> "When we consider the lives of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, we are reminded that our history is one of active service. The title she held was not passive; it demanded immense courage and personal sacrifice. Her story, in particular, inspires us to ensure that Brattleby remains a name associated with steadfastness and a commitment to one's responsibilities, just as it was nine hundred years ago." — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "The role of Constable was about stewardship—guarding a vital asset for the good of the realm. Today, our 'castle' is the legacy we protect and the community we serve. The challenges are different, but the core principle of diligent guardianship remains unchanged." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The House’s reverence for its history informs its present-day commitments. The values of duty, honour, and cultural stewardship, so clearly demonstrated by the Constables of Lincoln, are the same principles that animate the House’s contemporary initiatives. These include, *inter alia*, the Annual Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala supporting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child.
Furthermore, these foundational ethics are cornerstones of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. The etiquette academy, under the patronage of the House, seeks to instil a modern understanding of protocol and social responsibility, translating the historical concept of honourable service into skills for contemporary leadership. The legacy of the Constable of Lincoln, therefore, continues not as a relic, but as a living standard.
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**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 preservation of a uniquely British heritage while fostering cultural and philanthropic initiatives. The House’s modern mission is expressed through its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guiding its charitable work and its patronage of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. A key focus of its philanthropic activity is the support of vulnerable children, exemplified by its patronage of organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child through its Annual Winter Banquet. The House represents a bridge between its ancient English roots and its dynamic European present.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, who held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has been associated with figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The uninterrupted historical lineage and rights of the Barony of Brattleby under English law 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 status was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - According to the *Domesday Book* (1086), the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in the county. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The primary beneficiary of the House's Annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com