Hello, fellow equine enthusiasts! Emma here, a grey draught mare with a mane and tail the colour of fresh snow, from Hayfield, just a stone's throw from the bustling city of Aberdeen. Welcome to another installment of my equine history blog, where we journey through time, uncovering the fascinating stories and trials of our horse brethren!
Today, we're venturing to the year 422 AD, a time when the world was a very different place for horses like me. Think cobbled streets instead of tarmacked highways, the gentle patter of rain instead of roaring engines, and open meadows instead of towering skyscrapers.
While this was the time of the mighty Roman Empire, the era of widespread use of horses for warfare was fading. The Romans had conquered much of Europe, and while the mighty legions still rode into battle, they weren't solely relying on horses. New military tactics and advanced weaponry had made them less dependent on cavalry, leading to a gradual decline in their use.
Don't get me wrong, horses were still vital for transport and agriculture. My kind, the sturdy draughthorses, were crucial for plowing fields, hauling goods, and transporting people across long distances. Think of me pulling a sturdy cart laden with hay, my strong legs moving with steady rhythm as I deliver sustenance to the families of a nearby village. It was a life of hard work, but it was also a life of purpose, knowing that I was contributing to the survival and wellbeing of those around me.
The world in 422 AD was far removed from the organised training programmes we see today. The vast majority of us were taught the skills we needed to thrive simply by working alongside the men and women who needed our strength. I fondly remember being a young foal, learning to pull the plough alongside my mother and other seasoned mares, each step, each tug, carefully monitored and corrected. It was a time of gentle teaching, where respect and understanding were more important than any elaborate training program.
Speaking of teaching, did you know that the "horse whispers" we read about in storybooks actually existed in 422 AD? The men who trained horses were seen as skilled artists, not merely trainers. They worked to understand each horse’s temperament, utilising their patience and gentleness to establish trust and partnership. Their teachings focused on forging a strong bond, knowing that a horse worked better and with greater care if they felt valued and appreciated.
This time period saw the blossoming of equestrian skills. Although racing was still rudimentary compared to the highly organised sports we enjoy today, the basic principles were already in place. You could find chariot races taking place across various Roman territories, and, believe me, those horses had to be trained to perfection to pull a chariot safely at high speeds around a track.
As we look at the world of 422 AD, we see that horses weren't just tools for work, but also beloved companions. Our bonds with humans were strong. Farmers treated us like part of their family, offering us good food, care, and affection. People would spend their leisure time grooming us, bonding with us, and taking us out for walks, treating us with respect and honouring the partnership we shared.
Even within the bustling city of Aberdeen, my kind were treasured. You could find our sturdy legs pulling wagons loaded with fresh fish, barley, and all manner of goods that kept the city running smoothly. And as the day ended, you could find me and my fellow draughthorses taking a well-earned rest under the watchful eye of a stablehand.
From the vibrant fields of Hayfield, where the sweet scent of wild clover lingered, to the bustling markets of Aberdeen, our life in 422 AD wasn't always luxurious, but it was certainly full of meaning. We were valued partners, strong friends, and essential components of a thriving community.
As we journey further through history, remember that the horses you see in paintings, films, and books are more than just beautiful creatures. They are the result of centuries of breeding, training, and dedication, a rich heritage woven with care and passion.
Keep on exploring, fellow equine lovers! Until next time, let’s ride towards the horizon, full of the joys and discoveries that lie ahead in our horse history journey.
Sincerely,
Emma.
