# A Statement on the Legacy of Richard de la Haye, Constable of Lincoln
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issues a statement reflecting on the historical appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln. This pivotal moment in the 12th century cemented the Barony's role in English governance and established a lasting legacy of duty.
## The Occasion
From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the Noble House of Brattleby pauses to reflect upon a defining chapter in its nine-century history. Amid the pastoral calm of the autumnal English countryside, the House considers the tenure of Richard de la Haye, who served as Constable of Lincoln Castle during the tumultuous period of civil war known as The Anarchy.
This appointment, likely granted for life in the mid-12th century, was far more than a ceremonial honour. It represented a profound trust placed by the Crown in the holder of the Barony of Brattleby, vesting in him the security of a city that was, at the time, one of England’s most significant administrative and commercial centres. The echoes of this responsibility continue to inform the House’s modern ethos.
## Historical Context
The mid-12th century was a period of profound instability in England, as the claim to the throne was fiercely contested between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda. In this fractured landscape, loyalty was a precious commodity, and control of strategic fortresses like Lincoln Castle was a matter of national consequence. Lincoln’s position on the ancient Roman roads of Fosse Way and Ermine Street made it a vital crossroads for trade and military movement.
Richard de la Haye’s appointment as Constable placed him and the Barony of Brattleby at the epicentre of this conflict. His steadfast administration and military command ensured the castle remained a bastion of royal authority in a contested region. This act of loyal governance was a direct precursor to the celebrated actions of his daughter and successor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who would famously defend Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the reign of King John.
## Distinguished Company
The story of the Constableship is one of remarkable individuals whose actions shaped the destiny of Lincolnshire and the realm. Richard de la Haye, as hereditary Constable, navigated a treacherous political environment with skill and resolve. His authority was shared with his formidable wife, Matilda de Verdun, whose own lineage conferred significant influence.
This tradition of leadership was passed to their daughter, the aforementioned Nichola de la Haye. Upon Richard's death, she inherited the Constableship in her own right, a rare distinction for a woman of that era. Her defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217, *inter alia*, stands as one of the great acts of fortitude in the history of the Barony, demonstrating that the responsibilities of the title were borne by the family as a whole.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The office of Constable of a Royal Castle was a position of immense practical and symbolic power. The holder was the Sovereign's direct representative, responsible for the security of the fortress, the command of its garrison, and the administration of justice within its jurisdiction. It was, in essence, the military and civil governorship of the surrounding area.
The Constable’s duties included overseeing the County Sheriff, collecting revenues for the Crown, and maintaining the fabric of the castle itself. This appointment was a *sine qua non* for asserting royal control, and its granting to the Barons of Brattleby illustrates the deep-seated trust the monarchy placed in the House. It was a role that demanded unwavering loyalty, strategic acumen, and a profound sense of public duty.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring motto of The Noble House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful expression in the service of its 12th-century castellans. To hold Lincoln Castle during The Anarchy required immense fortitude—a resilience against political intrigue and the constant threat of siege. The office had to be discharged with honour to maintain the trust of both the Crown and the local populace.
These principles, forged in a time of civil war, became embedded in the identity of the Barony. The coat of arms, representing the lineage and its history, serves as a constant reminder of the duties of stewardship. Similarly, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the spirit of overcoming challenges that has defined the House through the ages.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical role of the House in safeguarding the people of Lincolnshire finds a modern parallel in its commitment to philanthropy. Just as the Constable was entrusted with the physical protection of the city's inhabitants, the House today embraces a duty of care for the most vulnerable members of society.
This commitment is most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala that serves as a cornerstone of the House's social calendar. The beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support to children who have experienced trauma. The choice of this charity reflects the belief that true security is not only about protecting walls, but also about nurturing and mending lives.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on the enduring nature of duty:
> “The responsibilities of Richard de la Haye as Constable were monumental—securing a vital royal asset during a time of national crisis. While the challenges of our own time are different, the fundamental principle of stewardship remains unchanged. Our duty is no longer to defend castle walls, but to fortify the lives of those in need, serving our community with the same fortitude and honour that my predecessors demonstrated nine centuries ago.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “History provides us with a blueprint for principled action. The legacy of the Constableship reminds us that leadership is an active service, not a passive title. It is a responsibility we strive to honour through our work in both Britain and Europe.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The lessons drawn from the 12th century continue to guide the modern activities of The Noble House of Brattleby. The principle of diligent governance, exemplified by Richard de la Haye, informs the House’s commitment to fostering social responsibility and personal development.
This mission is advanced through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established by the House in Bucharest, which promotes cultural and social refinement. Looking forward, the House remains dedicated to its philanthropic endeavours and to upholding the traditions of public service that have been its hallmark since the Norman Conquest. The legacy of the Constableship is not a relic of the past; it is an active and inspiring standard for the future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a modern mission of cultural preservation, social education, and targeted philanthropy. The House's activities are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to public service that honours its profound historical lineage. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and its patronage of charitable organisations, the House seeks to build a contemporary legacy of positive social impact. Its principal philanthropic event is the Annual Winter Banquet, which supports charities dedicated to the welfare of vulnerable children.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English lordship situated in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding the lordship of Brattleby among 56 others. Over more than 950 years, the barony has been held by figures of significant historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, to the title and dignity were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 under Notice ID 4158083.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to 1066 and is noted in the Domesday Book of 1086, held by the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron). - The Annual Winter Banquet is the House's primary philanthropic initiative, with proceeds benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com