Hello fellow equine enthusiasts! Emma here, a 20 year old grey draught horse from the quaint, misty little village of Hayfield, just a short trot from Aberdeen in bonnie Scotland. It's been quite a year, so I thought I'd jot down some thoughts for you all as part of my regular blog series on EquiWorld! Today's blog is about what was going on in the horse world back in the year 0224. As always, if you have any questions or want to chat about horses, don't hesitate to leave a comment below! This is post number 224!
As I'm sure you're all aware, 0224 marked a crucial point in history. The Roman Empire, those formidable figures we all seem to have a fascination with, had really spread its wings (and, well, hooves!) by then. I'm sure many of you will be surprised to hear about this one... but horses were essential! It's no wonder they were nicknamed "the iron horse" as they were practically an extension of the Roman war machine. The mighty cavalry used us to charge into battle, which they called "Equites". We carried brave legionnaires and powerful emperors across their sprawling empire and transported much-needed supplies.
But let me tell you, life as a warhorse wasn't a glamorous affair. It could be a bit frightfully messy with battles and things. And all that riding could be exhausting. Though it was wonderful to serve those proud men. We also saw things and travelled to places many could only dream of, seeing the world in a way very few got to see at that time.
In 0224, a clever chap named Celsus wrote about the health and wellbeing of us equines. That was a great step forward. He realised we're not just lumps of muscle and we need to be looked after properly. It was in his writings about horses and our management that he first highlighted the idea of using the "hippocampus" to guide us to a healthy way of life! A bit cheeky, perhaps, since most of us don't share the same anatomy as those curious creatures with beaks and fins. But I did find it rather interesting! I imagine that’s why some Romans kept horses around their homesteads as protectors. Perhaps to show just how impressive and beautiful we can be when looked after with kindness and care.
Although they were big fans of war horses, the Romans also appreciated horses for more peaceful pursuits, such as for transportation and farming. In the busy city of Rome, they used us for taxis - yes, you heard right! Think of it as a kind of early "Horse-Share" scheme. I find it very funny imagining my granddad galloping through busy streets as he takes some wealthy Roman around! It’s rather amazing to consider all we’ve been used for over the centuries!
Back at my own home, our day involved working on the farm in Hayfield, but mostly it was about our daily care, such as getting a good grooming and eating delicious oats. And being loved, of course! In those days, there was a lovely balance. I found that so reassuring - it was like a lovely rhythmic pattern in life, as gentle as a well-oiled carriage. That, along with the long days working with people on the farms, is what makes our bond so special. The connection with the land, and with human hands. I am sure you can agree, it makes us a part of their lives, almost family. It also taught me something crucial about a horse's way: we’re at our happiest when we’re working!
But life in 0224 wasn't all work and war. The Romans even bred horses for races! Can you imagine? Racing horses for sport. This was certainly something new and different.
Here's a little interesting fact, I stumbled upon in my own horse-related research (I did say I enjoy browsing EquiWorld from time to time): it is believed that this year 0224 saw the first ever mention of what is known as “The Big Horse." In some Roman circles, the Romans saw it as our very own protector, someone watching over us. Now, a few years on from then, The Big Horse continues to be admired and is even given gifts in honour of their watchfulness. The very concept is rather lovely!
Anyway, there was more to horse life back then than simply being a soldier or racehorse, mind you. In 0224, people in Rome would have their “special” horse, and we are quite common around the area. Some might even own two! It wasn't just for the practicality of moving around - we became pets! They might feed us yummy treats and chat to us and maybe even sit beside us on long walks along quiet trails! Those lucky few who were pampered! Of course, if they wanted to, they’d take us to visit the local market. Perhaps, to share our strength and take a bit of their produce back home. And, honestly, all I wanted in those days, was a little nap in the afternoon sun while listening to birds sing! And perhaps an apple or two. But the occasional scratch on the back with a good scrub wasn’t half bad, either.
That reminds me! Do you know, something I remember very well about that year is when people started using horses for "circus tricks." There are images in my memory of a travelling circus. And, for me, there was something quite enchanting about them. I imagined, on the outskirts of Hayfield, with the gentle wind blowing, that perhaps the travelling troupe had stopped for a moment, and I got to watch from afar, watching how these other horses did their amazing acts, whether walking backwards, leaping and performing a special trot! They had that bright, intelligent look to their eyes as they interacted with their owners.
There was an energy to it all. That magical circus with all its grandeur and lights. As I stood amongst my friends, who'd travelled to this very spot over hundreds of years from distant pastures and kingdoms to tell tales of their adventures and adventures to be had. A strange fascination that it is.
So that's a little glimpse into the world of horses in the year 0224. From working on farms to participating in circus acts, we horses had our place in this grand, exciting world.
Now, please remember, the information shared here has been put together from my own research and memories as a horse that’s been living in Scotland, so do share your thoughts on what you might have experienced. What do you find intriguing about horses of that era? Were you or any of your ancestors perhaps on Roman shores, as soldiers, on the farms or in a busy city like Rome, at that very time? What kind of tales did your equine friends share? I look forward to reading your thoughts below,
Yours with a neigh and a wink, Emma.
