Hello there, lovely readers! Emma here, a grey draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail, just turning twenty this year. It's a glorious spring morning here in Hayfield, near Aberdeen, and the air is crisp with the scent of blooming heather. I'm kicking my heels in the paddock, soaking in the sunshine while I contemplate a rather momentous year - 278!
This is my horse history blog, so let's delve into this extraordinary year through a horse's eyes. 278 was a bustling year for horses, full of opportunity and challenge. You see, we horses are truly the backbone of our society. Without us, people wouldn't be able to move goods, till their fields, or even travel from one village to the next. We are strong, hardworking creatures, and that was very much the case in 278!
Farming, Trade and the Mighty Cart Horse
Down on the farm, the year began with the traditional spring ploughing. We draught horses, with our sturdy build and unwavering strength, were absolutely crucial for this back-breaking task. As the sun climbed higher in the sky, we would pull ploughs through the heavy soil, turning the earth over ready for planting. My own sire, a magnificent chestnut stallion named Rowan, was a seasoned ploughman. He taught me all I needed to know about rhythm, coordination, and how to endure the long hours without a grumble.
Farmers are some of the kindest people I know. They care for us well, with sturdy barns, plenty of hay and oats, and the occasional carrot for good measure! Theirs is a tough life, but one where every member of the team, human and horse, relies on the other. There’s a real respect there that you just don't find in other spheres.
We weren't only used for farm work, oh no! This year, the trade routes between settlements were bustling, and carts and wagons laden with goods – from woven fabrics to crafted goods - were constantly being moved. My best friend, Daisy, a lively dappled grey mare, worked as a cart horse for a travelling merchant. I’ve heard some truly thrilling tales about her adventures - traversing vast landscapes, visiting bustling market towns, and witnessing the wonders of other cultures. Daisy is a true globetrotter!
The Mighty Roman Legions: The Strength of a Cavalry
Of course, there was a new development in the year 278 that even we horses had to acknowledge: The ever-growing power of the Roman legions. This army, marching across the landscape like a relentless wave, was unstoppable. The legions relied heavily on us, with the Romans seeing us not just as tools for carrying loads but as instruments of war.
They bred us carefully, for size, strength, and loyalty. They called them "War Horses," and it’s a name that instilled respect. Although I’ve never encountered a Roman legion myself, I’ve heard tales about them. There’s something about a Roman cavalry thundering across the land, their riders like steel and fire, that commands your respect.
This influence of the Romans on the world was palpable even here in Hayfield, near the northern frontier of their territory. Their laws and their military advancements had an impact even on us, horses living in remote areas.
The Ritual of Horsepower
It’s not all work and war, of course! Horses have been part of rituals and ceremonies since time began. Even now, in 278, we play a crucial role in community celebrations. In Hayfield, we often join in parades and gatherings, where the community comes together to thank the Gods for the bounty of the harvest or to commemorate special events.
The rituals of these gatherings are fascinating! Often, we are decorated with flowers and ribbons, our manes are braided beautifully, and the riders are dressed in colorful clothes. We parade through the village, carrying flags and banners, creating a majestic spectacle of grace and beauty. It makes me proud to be part of these celebrations.
The Year of Change and Hope
This year, the horses in Hayfield witnessed the arrival of new things, too. Some traders carried unusual items on their carts, like shimmering fabrics from the East or strange instruments that sang with strange music. Some farmers were even starting to experiment with new ways of farming - using a device called a “wheel” to make planting and harvesting easier.
This new world of 278 has brought us both challenges and opportunities. But even amidst the turmoil of wars and political change, one thing remains true - the strong bond between horses and humans. It’s this bond that gives us purpose and keeps us moving forward. I look forward to what lies ahead, knowing that horses like me, along with our human friends, will continue to write the stories of this changing world.
Until next time, lovely readers!
Emma
