Neigh Neigh everyone, it’s Emma here, the Hayfield Lass, and welcome to another thrilling installment of my horse history blog!
Today, we’re taking a galloping trip back to the year 661, a time when the world was a very different place. Think bustling, cobbled streets, Roman ruins, and a whole lot of fields for me to graze in! It's fascinating, you know, how much the world of horses has changed, even over the centuries. Back in 661, we weren't just "pets" or "show-off" horses like you see today. We were absolutely essential! We carried people and their goods, pulled plows to grow food, and played a vital role in all aspects of daily life. I’d wager to say life was rather tough back then, though, with wars happening all over the place, even here in good old Scotland.
Life on the Farm in Hayfield
My life here in Hayfield, near Aberdeen, is quite simple, yet I wouldn't trade it for anything. My days begin with a delicious breakfast of oats and hay. I am one of a small team of draft horses, strong and sturdy, bred to work the land. We are like a family really, and it makes life all the more bearable, especially when you need to work hard, hauling timber and pulling those heavy carts. It’s amazing how strong we are, but even a tough grey mare like me enjoys a good rest! We even have a beautiful meadow with the best wildflowers you can imagine to roam around in, where I enjoy chasing my tail, playing with the foals, and sharing the latest gossip. I may be a draft horse, but I do love to race! Just a quick gallop with the other mares for fun is all it takes! It’s all about balance, I reckon. Work hard, play harder, eh?
A Glimpse into the Big Wide World of Horses
So, what's happening with the rest of the horse world in 661? Well, quite a bit actually!
Arabia and the Silk Road: I hear tell of these beautiful Arabian horses, bred for speed and endurance. They’re said to be prized steeds, coveted for their stamina, grace and those elegant, curved noses. I imagine them being used to transport spices and silk across the Silk Road. A challenging journey, no doubt!
Horses of War: Unfortunately, a big part of the horse world is associated with warfare. Throughout Europe, horses play a vital role in the military, carrying soldiers into battle, and hauling their supplies and weapons. These are often tough, resilient breeds - capable of handling the hardships and dangers of war. Thankfully, I’ve only seen peaceful encounters so far here in Scotland!
From the North: From the north of my homeland Scotland, we get tales of magnificent, powerful Icelandic horses, small but hardy and strong. They've been carrying people and goods in that harsh terrain for a long, long time.
The Evolution of Our Equine Friends
And did you know? Horses in the 660s were bred mainly for their utility – carrying heavy loads, pulling carts and plows, and travelling long distances. It’s fascinating to think that a horse was the fastest mode of transportation back then! We are adaptable creatures, you see. With the centuries, our roles have evolved. Now, we see horses involved in all sorts of activities - pulling coaches and wagons, of course, but also racing, equestrian sports, and even serving as therapy companions. How brilliant, right?
A Final Neigh
I know I may not be a racehorse like the thoroughbreds or the noble steeds of legends and myths, but I am a hardworking member of our equine community. The world may be a very different place now, but I’m proud of the roles that horses like myself have played, and will continue to play in human history. I can't wait to see what the future holds for us!
Until next time, take care and remember, we horses are mighty!
Emma, the Hayfield Lass.
