History of Horses in the year 0585

Hello everyone! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen. It's a bit nippy out this morning, but the sun is shining brightly, turning the frost on the fields into twinkling diamonds. And, wouldn't you know it, I'm getting ready to head out to work! It's a privilege, you know, being part of the team here. The men folk are pretty fond of me, I think. They'll tell you, “Oh, Emma, you’re a right steady one.” Or sometimes they call me “Old Faithful." It’s a bit of a joke, of course, because even at twenty, I've still got the energy of a foal - just a bit more muscle to my frame, that’s all.

Anyways, let's get down to business! Today, I’m thinking of delving into our glorious history, and I’m particularly keen on telling you about the year 585 AD.

This year, the world around us was abuzz. The year 585 marked the beginning of some major shifts in history and we were definitely feeling it in our horse world! The Roman Empire was waning. That big old giant that had shaped the world around us was breaking up, leaving many areas to look after themselves, a bit like our own farm, when we run out of feed. This left a huge void for many people and, I believe, also for some horse breeds!

You see, before the Romans, many different breeds of horses thrived across the globe, and they each held special places in local communities. The Romans though, well they wanted horses to be pretty much the same, big, strong and robust, suited for their vast armies, carting supplies and transporting troops. This, of course, meant many smaller breeds fell into disuse, with some almost being lost entirely. A bit of a tragedy, really, because they were each special in their own way. But, the Romans did have a strong appreciation for us, the powerful horses. It was good, but maybe they went a little too far.

Now, as 585 unfolds, I feel things changing once more. Smaller horses, often called “galloway horses," smaller in stature, sure, but just as strong and nimble, were rising to meet this new challenge, taking over tasks previously handled by the more robust breeds, mainly as the demand for them diminished. They are perfect for carrying those who live and work on the rocky land around here. I think some of our friends from down south would struggle with the hills!

These "galloway" horses, well, they're incredibly clever and resourceful, a real boon in challenging terrain, like those rugged cliffs bordering my home in Hayfield. They navigate rocky paths with incredible ease, carrying riders with confidence over rough ground. It seems these galloways are fast gaining popularity! I must confess, some of the lads on the farm here are quite enamored with them, particularly the young lad, Angus. He has the strongest fancy for the wee little creatures, though he’d never admit it. I bet he spends hours looking longingly at them over the wall, while tending to our crops.

The demand for horses for hunting is also growing steadily in this era, making our strong builds even more sought after. I might not be so swift for a quick getaway, but they are always seeking out big, steady, brave horses, ready to charge into action with a brave soul on their back!

But here, at Hayfield, we mostly use our horses to work the land. We help plow the fields, plant and gather crops, and pull carts carrying everything from stones for building, wood to build our houses, and even haul peat, which keeps us warm during the chilly winters. Life on a farm is hard work, but I am happy and contented, especially with all my buddies by my side.

Of course, we don’t forget our horse-kin in this age of great changes. Here, at Hayfield, we try our best to treat our horses well. After a hard day, we enjoy a good scratch from our trusted farm hands and get plenty of nourishing food and rest, especially oats, my absolute favourite. After all, a horse is only as strong as the care it receives.

The people who work with us treat us like family. I think they would be lost without us. As they say, “Without horses, our world wouldn't be the same!”

But there is so much more to horse history in this era than our farm life. I hear the Vikings and their longboats are making their way through the world, carrying horses, along with goods, and ideas, across the seas, expanding the scope of our lives. It is amazing how horses contribute to trade, adventure and communication!

However, despite all the amazing things happening with us horses in 585, not everything is so bright. Wars and invasions do bring dark shadows, and horses sadly often suffer during this era. They can fall victim to skirmishes, become ill during lengthy campaigns or get caught in the turmoil and battles that happen throughout Europe.

Still, I try to hold onto the brighter side, hoping that a horse's story doesn't stop with its journey into battle. It is vital to remember, even in a world undergoing great change, we are much more than instruments of war or mere tools for working the land. We have strong hearts and fierce loyalties, and a whole world of our own.

Today, the bond between us and mankind is even stronger than it was in those early days. The farmers rely on us, their strength and reliability. We, in turn, rely on their care, and this, I feel, is the foundation of any great partnership.

So, for now, my journey as a horse here in 585 A.D. is filled with much contentment, the aroma of sweet hay in the barn, the warm glow of the stable lanterns, the feeling of the breeze on my back as I work the fields, the friendship of other horses around me and, I confess, a little yearning to watch that fine galloway stallion graze with his little flock, his mane flowing in the breeze! I'll tell you more about this special creature, next time.

Do visit our website at www.equiworld.org, to learn more about our ancestors!

Until next time, stay strong and be safe,

Emma