By Emma, Grey Draught Mare
From Hayfield, near Aberdeen
Good afternoon, dear readers!
It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood draught mare, back with another instalment of my horse history blog! I hope this post finds you all well, with plenty of fresh hay and sunshine.
As you might know, I've been documenting the lives of our horsekind throughout history for some time now. It’s been a delightful journey, sharing insights and perspectives from all kinds of horses, from fiery steeds to gentle giants like myself. Today, though, we’re going to turn our attention to a particular year - the year 0212, which as you know, falls snugly in the third century AD.
The year 0212 began like most years, with a sense of quiet anticipation, a gentle warmth spreading through the land as spring approached. For me, a draught horse in a bustling town like Hayfield, life centred around my daily routine: hauling goods to and fro, pulling carts for merchants, helping farmers with their daily tasks, and, of course, indulging in the occasional tasty treat with my stable mates.
In those days, the roads around Hayfield were lively, bustling with the coming and going of people and horses. We carried everything from fresh produce from local farms to heavy materials for new constructions. The merchants, especially, relied on our strength and reliability, their goods reaching towns far and wide thanks to our hooves and a hearty "gee up" or two!
You might think life as a workhorse could be quite demanding, but for me, it was a fulfilling one. It gave me purpose and a strong sense of community. Each day brought a fresh challenge, a new face to greet, a new journey to embark upon. I couldn't imagine a more enriching life!
Life Across The Roman Empire: From Racing to Warfare
Looking further afield, the year 0212 saw significant changes in the horse world throughout the Roman Empire. We're not just talking about the big political dramas unfolding, like emperors rising and falling. This year was truly special for horse enthusiasts, with several fascinating events unfolding:
Chariot Racing Fever: Throughout the Empire, people were mad for chariot racing! The excitement of this ancient sport was infectious, and Romans from all walks of life were flocking to the Circus Maximus in Rome and arenas across the land. Our kin - strong, agile horses - were at the heart of it all, vying for glory and their human riders’ pride. The year 0212 was no exception, with legendary charioteers vying for honour and wealth. I can just imagine the thunderous applause of the crowd as the horses raced through the arena, their powerful strides a symphony of motion.
From Cavalry to Carriers: Not only were horses at the forefront of sports and leisure, but they also played a crucial role in military campaigns. The Roman army relied heavily on equestrian cavalry, with horses providing both transportation and firepower. I've heard stories from older horses who served in the army; their tales are full of grit, honour, and of course, a healthy dose of bravery. I often think about how important these brave horses were for keeping the Empire safe.
Riding Beyond The Frontiers: But it wasn’t all about warfare and grandeur. You know how we horses are always eager to explore, to stretch our legs and roam. In 0212, travellers, traders, and explorers mounted up and embarked on journeys far and wide. Horses were their trusty companions, braving deserts, crossing mountains, and bridging the vast distances that separated the many corners of the Roman Empire. They helped connect people, cultures, and knowledge, carrying ideas and products far beyond their originating points.
Domesticating Our Wild Cousins: Something else was taking place in 0212. Throughout the Empire, horses weren't only prized for their work ethic and athleticism but were also beginning to be bred for their companionship and beauty. Horses started appearing in the elegant Roman villas, where they weren't just a means of transport or power, but beloved family members. I’ve read fascinating accounts about people sharing their homes and hearts with horses, treating them with respect and affection. This trend, in my opinion, was a beautiful turning point in the relationship between our kind and humans. It signalled a shift away from utilitarian partnerships towards a more profound understanding and love.
A Year of Innovation in Horse Care:
Apart from the broader developments, the year 0212 saw innovations specifically tailored to horses’ needs. This period saw improvements in horse grooming techniques, new approaches to harnessing, and the refinement of horsemanship practices. For instance, blacksmiths were developing better techniques to forge horseshoes, making our hooves strong and resilient, while saddlery experts created sturdier and more comfortable harnesses for our daily labours. I think these changes really exemplify humans’ dedication to caring for and understanding their horses - a tribute to our mutual interdependence.
A Tale of Two Horses: The Story of Lucius and Cora
Speaking of human and equine partnerships, I think it's only right to end my post with the story of two remarkable horses I met during one of my journeys to the Roman town of Carlisle. There I met Lucius, a spirited Arabian mare famous for her lightning speed and the heart of a champion. She served as a racing mount for the most prestigious races across the Empire. I often saw Lucius, sweat gleaming in the midday sun, the roar of the crowd carrying her through each daring turn, the triumph on her rider’s face reflecting in her intelligent eyes.
At a nearby farm, I also met a gentle black mare called Cora. Cora belonged to a kind farmer, and the two were inseparable. They toiled together on the fields, sharing a special bond forged through trust and mutual understanding. Watching them together filled me with admiration, their unwavering partnership resonating deep within my soul.
Through their journeys and stories, Lucius and Cora showcased two contrasting aspects of the relationship between horses and humans in 0212 - the excitement of competition, and the enduring love that blooms in simple acts of co-existence. Both experiences served as reminders of the essential bond that united humans and horses during that extraordinary time in history.
Our Lasting Legacy: The Gift of Companionship:
As I write this, the golden glow of the evening sun stretches across the hills of Hayfield. It paints the world with a soft, warm hue, bringing a sense of peace to my heart.
I have been incredibly lucky to have lived and worked in the year 0212. The horses I have met, the stories I’ve learned, the experiences I’ve lived…they have all helped me appreciate the enduring power of partnership between horses and humans.
Our relationship, it’s true, is based on mutual trust and respect. Throughout history, horses have been partners in work and leisure, partners in exploring and learning. Today, as I look back on that ancient era, I realise the enduring strength of this bond. We, the horses of history, have not only been essential to our human counterparts' lives but also gifted them with something equally valuable - the gift of companionship.
As always, I hope this blog post has been informative and enriching for all of you. Please feel free to leave a comment below or share your thoughts on what you learned about horses during this fascinating year in history. Until next time, I wish you all a happy, hay-filled evening. And don't forget to enjoy your journeys on hoof!
