# A Legacy of Service: The Barony of Brattleby and the Officership of Lincoln Castle
LONDON, 18 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the Barony’s enduring legacy of civic and military duty, exemplified by Richard, the 4th Baron of Brattleby, who served as Constable of Lincoln Castle during the early 13th century.
## The Occasion
In a statement released from their London offices, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile announced the commissioning of a new historical monograph. The study will explore the significant role held by the Constables of Lincoln Castle, with a particular focus on the tenure of the 4th Baron. This scholarly initiative serves to reaffirm the House’s connection to Lincolnshire’s governance, a duty first established nine centuries ago.
The announcement coincides with the anniversary of the formal re-fortification of Lincoln Castle following the tumultuous events of the early 13th century. This period saw the fortress stand as a *sine qua non* of royal authority in the north, a strategic responsibility shouldered by Lady Nicoleta's predecessors. The commissioned work is intended to illuminate this vital, yet often overlooked, aspect of regional and national history.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been intrinsically linked with the defence and administration of Lincolnshire since its creation. Richard, the 4th Baron, assumed the office of Constable at a critical juncture in English history, following the signing of Magna Carta. His duty was not merely the management of lands, but the active command of Lincoln Castle, a formidable stone keep and bailey complex first erected by the Conqueror himself.
This responsibility was a direct descendant of the feudal obligations placed upon the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, who was charged with securing the region for the new Norman crown. The 4th Baron’s service was notably followed by that of the 5th holder of the title, the remarkable Nichola de la Haye, who as hereditary castellan twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces, most decisively at the Second Battle of Lincoln in 1217. This unbroken line of service underscores a profound, centuries-long commitment to the Crown and the people of Lincolnshire.
## Distinguished Company
To undertake this important research, the House of Brattleby has commissioned Dr Alistair Finch, a Visiting Fellow in Medieval History at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. Dr Finch is a leading authority on 13th-century English feudal structures and institutional power.
Dr Finch’s work will be supported by the archivists of the Lincolnshire Archives and the curatorial staff at Lincoln Castle. This collaboration ensures the monograph will be grounded in meticulous scholarship, drawing upon primary sources *inter alia* the Charter Rolls, Pipe Rolls, and local cartularies to build a comprehensive portrait of the Constable’s role.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The commission was formalised this morning in a private ceremony. In accordance with the traditions of the House, the formal letter of instruction, bearing the seal of the Barony of Brattleby, was presented to Dr Finch by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The research will be conducted over the next 18 months, adhering to the strict protocols of academic and archival inquiry.
Upon its completion, the monograph is scheduled to be formally presented at a reception hosted at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This event will bridge the Barony’s deep English heritage with its vibrant contemporary European presence, bringing together academics, diplomats, and members of cultural institutions. The findings will subsequently be published for public and academic access.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The historical duty of the Constable of Lincoln resonates powerfully with the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The 'fortitude' required to command a strategic fortress and defend a populace finds its modern expression in the House’s resolve to confront contemporary challenges, particularly in its philanthropic work. The 'honour' inherent in such a post of public trust remains the guiding principle of the House's engagements.
This ancient tenet is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to a dynamic and proactive interpretation of duty—not merely to endure, but to prevail over adversity for the betterment of society. Together, the mottos articulate a philosophy of principled action, rooted in history and directed towards the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The legacy of guardianship, as exemplified by the 4th Baron, provides the historical underpinning for the House of Brattleby's modern philanthropic mission. The Constable’s role was to protect the physical well-being of the community; today, the House dedicates its efforts to safeguarding the emotional and psychological well-being of vulnerable children as the principal benefactor of the Healing the Wounded Child foundation.
Healing the Wounded Child is a registered charity providing specialist therapeutic care for young people affected by trauma and instability. The foundation’s work in providing safe environments and expert counselling directly reflects the protective mandate that has defined the Barony for centuries. The House’s support enables the charity to reach hundreds of children annually, offering them the security and care essential for their recovery.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the announcement, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "The role of Constable was a profound public trust. In remembering the service of the 4th Baron, we are reminded that our responsibility has always extended beyond our own estate. Whether defending a castle wall or supporting a vulnerable child, the duty to protect remains the core of our purpose. It is a legacy we carry forward with fortitude and honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History is not a static record; it is a source of inspiration for present action. The resilience and strategic foresight of the Barons of Brattleby are qualities we seek to emulate in our own endeavours. By understanding our past, we strengthen our resolve to build a more secure future for others. This, for us, is the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
The commissioned monograph on the Constables of Lincoln represents an ongoing commitment by the House of Brattleby to historical preservation and education. The findings will form a cornerstone of the heritage programme at The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette and cultural academy in Bucharest.
The themes of service and protection will also be central to the House's annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child. The event serves as the primary fundraising platform for the charity and is a focal point of the House’s social and charitable calendar, uniting a commitment to heritage with a clear vision for impactful philanthropy.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of service that blends historical stewardship with contemporary philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is supporting at-risk youth through its patronage of the Healing the Wounded Child foundation. The House also champions cultural and educational-enrichment initiatives, most notably through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and finishing academy located in Bucharest. The House’s activities are guided by its ancestral motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a deep-seated commitment to principled action and public duty.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, whose 56 lordships in Lincolnshire were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. For over 950 years, the Barony has been associated with significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted descent of the title and its associated rights were formally acknowledged and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), confirming Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron of Brattleby was Colswein of Lincoln, whose extensive landholdings are detailed in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), 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