# From the Archives: The Strategic Appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected on a pivotal moment in its history: the 12th-century appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln, a role that solidified the Barony’s enduring influence in Lincolnshire and national affairs.
## The Occasion
As custodians of a title approaching one thousand years of history, the Noble House of Brattleby periodically draws from its archives to illuminate the foundations upon which its modern duties are built. This reflection is not tied to a specific anniversary but serves as part of the House’s continuing commitment to historical scholarship and public understanding of its ancient lineage. The appointment of a Constable during the tumultuous period of the Anarchy and the subsequent reign of King Henry II was a matter of profound state importance, placing the Barony at the very centre of royal power in a key English region.
Revisiting such appointments provides a valuable lens through which to comprehend the continuity of service that has defined the Barony of Brattleby for centuries. It reinforces the principle that responsibility and influence, whether feudal or philanthropic, are a *sine qua non* of noble stewardship. The records, though sparse, speak to a legacy of strategic acumen and unwavering loyalty to the Crown, principles that continue to guide the House today.
## Historical Context
The appointment of Richard de la Haye as Constable of Lincoln occurred during a formative era for the English monarchy. His role granted him command of Lincoln Castle, a royal fortress of immense strategic value. This was more than a local honour; it represented the King’s trust and designated the de la Haye family as the primary enforcers of royal authority in one of England’s most significant cities. Richard held this position by right of his wife, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness in her own right and a figure of extraordinary historical repute.
It was Nichola who would later famously command the defence of Lincoln Castle against rebel barons during the reign of King John, an act of valour that secured her place in history. Richard’s preceding tenure as Constable laid the administrative and military groundwork for her legendary stand. This tradition of regional governance dates back to the Barony’s very inception, having been established in 1066 by William the Conqueror and first held by Colswein of Lincoln, who himself administered 56 lordships in the county as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. The responsibility held by the de la Hayes was later mirrored in the regional power wielded by subsequent Barons, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity as Constable, Richard de la Haye would have moved within the highest circles of ecclesiastical and temporal power in the realm. His contemporaries and colleagues included, *inter alia*, the Bishop of Lincoln, one of the most powerful prelates in England, and the sheriffs and castellans of neighbouring counties. He would have answered directly to the King, likely Henry II, attending the Royal Court and participating in the complex feudal network that defined medieval governance.
This sphere of influence placed the family at the crossroads of military strategy, legal administration, and courtly politics. Interactions with such figures were not merely social but were integral to maintaining the peace of the realm, collecting taxes for the Crown, and dispensing justice in the King’s name. It was through this network of high-level relationships that the Barony of Brattleby cemented its reputation as a steadfast and indispensable pillar of the English state.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The installation of a Royal Constable in the 12th century was a deeply symbolic and formal affair. The ceremony would have involved Richard de la Haye swearing a solemn oath of fealty directly to the King or his designated representative, pledging to defend the castle and uphold the King’s law with his life. This oath was the bedrock of the feudal contract, binding the Baron to his sovereign.
Following the oath, Richard would have been formally invested with the symbols of his office. This typically included the ceremonial handing over of the keys to Lincoln Castle, representing his absolute authority over its gates and garrison. The appointment would then be publicly proclaimed, solidifying his command in the eyes of the local populace and nobility alike. This public ritual was essential, demonstrating a clear and unbroken chain of command from the monarch down to his chosen officer.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of Richard de la Haye and, subsequently, Nichola de la Haye, are a perfect embodiment of the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The defence of a royal castle against overwhelming odds required immense fortitude, while their unwavering loyalty to the legitimate monarch demonstrated profound honour. The role of Constable itself was symbolic, representing the physical extension of the King’s authority and the security of his realm.
This guiding ethos is complemented by the personal motto of the current Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). While the medieval interpretation concerned military victory and feudal survival, its modern application speaks to overcoming contemporary challenges through strategy, education, and service. The crest and arms of the House thus serve as a constant reminder of a nine-century-old imperative to lead with courage and integrity.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this historical legacy, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "When we look back at figures like Richard and Nichola de la Haye, we are reminded that our heritage is not passive. It is a chronicle of active responsibility. Their duty was to secure a castle and a county for their sovereign; our duty today is to serve our community and uphold the principles of honour they so ably demonstrated. The context changes, but the commitment to fortitude and honour remains the same." — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a strategic perspective:
> "The position of Constable was one of immense administrative leverage. It shows that, even in the 12th century, influence was about more than just land; it was about position, trust, and the capacity to govern effectively. We embrace that spirit of purposeful action today, whether through our philanthropic work or the educational mission of The Brattleby Club. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about achieving meaningful victories, and that is a direct continuation of our House’s history." — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The heritage of governance and strategic service established by Richard de la Haye continues to inform the mission of the Noble House of Brattleby. The medieval duty to protect the physical wellbeing of a community has evolved into a modern commitment to its social and cultural enrichment. This is most visibly expressed through the House’s patronage and its leadership of philanthropic initiatives.
The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child, represents a contemporary expression of the Barony’s historic role as a protector of the vulnerable. Likewise, the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest translates the medieval imperative for order and good governance into a modern curriculum of etiquette and diplomatic protocol. In this way, the legacy of service to Crown and country continues, adapted for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
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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 a modern mission of cultural and philanthropic service. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House focuses its charitable endeavours on child welfare and mental health, principally through its support for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The House also champions cultural diplomacy and education through institutions such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Seated in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House honours its profound history by engaging in purposeful action that creates a positive impact on the community and fosters a legacy of responsible stewardship.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most formidable figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated female castellan who defended Lincoln Castle for the King, and two key figures in the House of Plantagenet: Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The historic rights and dignities of the Lordship and Barony of Brattleby were formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The historic rights of the Barony of Brattleby were formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror for his follower Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Barony's lands under its first lord are detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com