Neigh-sayers and History Buffs! Emma here, a sturdy grey mare with a snowy mane and tail, and I’m thrilled to be writing my 183rd blog post for you all on www.equiworld.org. As many of you know, I live in the bustling yet beautiful town of Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. And while my hooves may be firmly planted in the 19th century, my mind wanders to all the fascinating happenings in the world of horses, both past and present.
Today, I’ll take you on a journey back to the year 1831, when the wind whistled through the Scottish Highlands and the scent of heather filled the air.
The Thrill of Carriage Rides: Back in those days, travel for many folk was a horse-powered affair. Imagine! Not only were we, horses, responsible for pulling carriages, carts, and even wagons across the land, but we also played a vital role in hauling goods, delivering mail, and transporting people to their destinations. It was a demanding yet rewarding life.
I, myself, was lucky to be part of a team that pulled the local milk cart in Hayfield. Each morning, we'd clip-clop through the cobbled streets, the sound of our hooves echoing as we made our way to the dairy farm just outside of town. Delivering fresh milk and cream to the villagers was a daily joy. You could see the delight in their faces as they greeted us with friendly nods and a pat on our sturdy necks.
Beyond the Carriage: Horses of Many Talents
But horse life in 1831 wasn’t all about carriages. Horses were indispensable in so many ways. We helped farmers cultivate their land, pulling plows and carrying heavy burdens. Imagine how laborious life would be without our help! We also served as faithful companions to shepherds, keeping watch over their flocks on the rolling hillsides.
The military was a major user of horses too, both for cavalry charges and transporting troops and supplies. These proud steeds were often magnificent and powerful creatures, with their spirited personalities. However, being a war horse was a serious responsibility, as danger lurked in every battle.
Horses and Their Masters:
The bond between humans and horses in 1831 was an incredible one, built on mutual trust and respect. Even today, you can still see this deep connection, not only in farm work but also in the equestrian world with competitive events like horse racing and equestrian sports.
Back then, a good horseman wasn't just skilled in riding; he understood horses deeply. He could anticipate their needs, recognize their temperaments, and offer comfort and guidance in difficult times. In fact, I often thought the old coachman who led our milk cart had a special way with horses. He always spoke to us gently and treated us with the same care and kindness that he would treat any human member of his family.
Change is in the Air: A Glimpse of the Future
Although the year 1831 was a time of horses thriving in every facet of society, change was beginning to stir on the horizon. While some scoffed at the idea, the very first steam-powered locomotives were beginning to make their way through the English countryside, hauling goods and people on iron tracks.
For many horses, especially those who worked on the railway, this innovation was viewed with suspicion and some anxiety. Would it be the start of an end for us horses?
This uncertainty echoed in my thoughts too, and often the older horses whispered about a "horse-less" future. I wasn't quite sure how I felt about the potential for change.
However, I’m not one to dwell on anxieties! Change, as it turned out, has always been a part of the equine world. But no matter how the world around us shifts, horses have always proven themselves adaptable and resourceful,
We’re strong, intelligent, and even have a bit of a quirky charm that captivates many people. Horses are creatures of strength, resilience, and endurance, and we will always have a vital role to play in the world, both past and present.
So let's raise our heads and whinny a salute to all our equine ancestors and the future of our breed!
Your Neigh-bour in History,
Emma
