Hello there, dear readers! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare from Hayfield, just outside Aberdeen. Today, I'm venturing a little further back in time for our history blog - all the way to 175 CE, or Anno Domini 175, for you history buffs out there. I've been doing some snooping through the archives and stumbled upon some truly fascinating snippets of what life was like for horses around the world back then.
As you all know, draught horses like myself are known for our strength and stamina. In the world of 175, we were considered an essential part of everyday life, practically a "horse"power of a different kind. No fancy petrol-powered contraptions back then, so we pulled carts, ploughs, and even the chariots that whisked dignitaries around the Roman Empire.
My home in Hayfield wasn't quite on the grand stage like that, mind you, but we played a vital role in the lives of people in our small community. Pulling a cart to the local market was commonplace, especially for the ladies selling fresh produce and handcrafted goods. It was my grandfather, old Charlie, who first started pulling carts to the market, and you can bet your oats he was a true working-class hero, carrying everyone's goods and earning everyone's respect.
It's fascinating to read the chronicles of Roman authors around 175. They speak of horses not only as work animals but also as steeds for racing and war, both exhilarating but quite demanding professions. You wouldn't believe some of the breeds they had in Rome: elegant Arabs, mighty thoroughbreds, and robust Spanish breeds, all sporting magnificent coats and fiery spirits! We even saw glimpses of them travelling through the empire, a sight to behold indeed. They’re not as robust as our northern steeds, but they do possess a graceful elegance, especially the Arabs with their silky hair. It’s the sort of breed you’d like to brush all day, their fur is so luxuriously soft!
From those Roman chronicles, we learn that the Romans understood the importance of selective breeding and training horses for specific tasks. That sounds like the kind of expertise that our modern-day equestrians pride themselves on. It’s no wonder horses like me are still thriving today; we can trace our heritage back to those very same ancient Roman breeds, proving our inherent strength and dedication.
As for me, 175 was a year of peace, thank goodness! We had our fair share of rough weather, but none of that affected our daily routines. It was a year for hay and oats, for sunshine and a bit of gentle napping in the stables when we weren't needed for the market. Life for us back then was simpler, slower paced, but a lot harder than it is for the horses today, with the advancements in horsemanship and care.
Oh, and a bit of gossip to add spice to your day! There are rumours flying about regarding some magical ponies! Supposedly, they possess strange powers - I won’t reveal too much here - but they certainly seem to be causing quite a stir amongst our brethren across the empire. My curiosity has been piqued, I’ll admit. One can only wonder…
Of course, it's important to keep our perspective, but it's inspiring to look back at the important role that horses like me, and horses throughout history, have played. We’re more than just "four-legged vehicles." We're symbols of strength, courage, and dedication, woven into the fabric of every culture that knows us. It’s something to ponder while munching on those sweet hay pellets tonight!
So, until next time, happy trails, my equine friends!
