Hello, fellow equines! Emma here, a grey draught mare from the lovely little village of Hayfield near Aberdeen. I may not be a racer, or a mighty steed for war, but let me tell you, I live a life full of meaning.
Today, I'm taking a break from the plough to share a bit of history with you. As I’m pulling the cart loaded with grain for the mill this fine spring morning, I couldn’t help but wonder, what were horses up to 1700 years ago? Were their days filled with hard work like mine, or was life perhaps a little different?
So, dear friends, let’s journey back to the year 312 A.D! This time period, though rather long ago, was still a very important time for horses in Europe. It was during this period that the Roman Empire was starting to spread its influence over many parts of our continent. Now, you might think Romans were all about war chariots, right? And while there was definitely a great deal of military use for horses at the time, the reality is much more nuanced.
More Than Just Soldiers
While Rome’s formidable cavalry units, like the mighty Auxilia, were certainly reliant on us, we horses also played an integral role in everyday life in this mighty empire. The Romans were incredibly clever in using our strength and resilience to move goods and people across vast distances. The sturdy draft horses like myself were used to haul goods on carts and wagons. Imagine travelling for days, carrying heavy supplies, through challenging terrains, all powered by the incredible might of a horse! It truly was a testament to our strength and endurance.
Then, there were the palfreys, smaller horses with graceful gaits and nimble hooves. They were beloved companions and mounts for travelling and leisurely journeys. Can you imagine riding a beautiful palfrey, feeling the breeze in your mane, across the rolling hills? It must have been quite luxurious!
Of course, we mustn’t forget the horses of the circus! These brave souls entertained crowds with amazing feats of agility and intelligence. It must have been quite a thrill to feel the cheers of the crowd as you leap through hoops and gallop in perfect circles.
Our Lives in the North
As I plod through the Hayfield fields, I can’t help but think about the differences between life here in the North and what it might have been like in those Roman settlements so far away. In my own quiet world, life is about cooperation, sharing the workload, and helping our human companions. My sturdy breed is well-suited to the task at hand: helping my human neighbour gather hay for his livestock or pull the cart filled with newly harvested grain to the market.
Here, in the wild beauty of Scotland, life moves at a gentler pace. There are many hills to climb, rugged terrain to navigate, but with every twist and turn, there is a sense of quiet contentment.
Connecting Across Time
Though I've never been south to Rome, it is truly fascinating to imagine what life would be like for my fellow horses there. While their daily lives may have been quite different, I am sure their strong spirit and willingness to serve have always been a vital part of their world, much like mine is here in Hayfield.
As I gently tug the cart filled with grain, I realize that we horses, whether living in bustling cities or quiet villages, have a deep connection that stretches across time. We are part of a powerful lineage, our ancestors having paved the way for our lives today. I, along with every other horse, am a living embodiment of that powerful history.
And that, my fellow equines, is why I share this history with you today. It is a reminder of our enduring legacy and how each of us, regardless of our breed or role, contributes to the great tapestry of life. Next time you gallop across the fields or patiently pull your cart, remember that you’re not just a horse, you’re a link to a powerful legacy, an integral part of the grand story of humankind!
Until next time, stay strong and gallop with pride!
Emma
P.S. Don't forget to check out Equiworld for more fascinating horse history and captivating tales from the equine world!
