Greetings, fellow equines and horse enthusiasts!
My name is Emma, and I'm a proud grey draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail, residing in the picturesque village of Hayfield, nestled near the rolling hills of Aberdeen. Today, I want to take you on a journey back in time – to the year 883 – and share with you what it was like to be a horse during that era. This, my friends, is a tale as old as time itself!
Now, I know what you’re thinking: 883, that’s a long time ago! And you’re right. In those days, the world was a much different place. It was a time of strong, vibrant kingdoms, bold Viking raids, and – you guessed it – plenty of horses. We were everywhere!
You see, in 883, horses were the backbone of transportation. We weren't just pretty faces, although I like to think I am. We hauled goods, we pulled plows, we carried knights and ladies alike, and sometimes, we even took part in exhilarating battles. Horses were the engines of everyday life.
A Day in the Life of Emma, the Draught Mare
My own days, back in 883, were usually filled with work. You see, I was a draught mare, strong and steady, meant to carry burdens. Each morning, my human friend, a kind man named Ewan, would carefully harness me up. The leather would rub slightly, but the harness was sturdy, built with respect for my needs. He would attach the cart or wagon to my back, and I'd feel the familiar weight, the tug of the heavy wheels, pulling the day’s haul.
Our typical route was to the bustling marketplace in Aberdeen. Imagine rows upon rows of stalls bursting with colours – bright scarves, glistening jewels, hearty cheeses, and sweet breads. Farmers would bring their fresh produce in horse-drawn carts, like the one I was pulling. I even caught a glimpse of a magnificent stallion from the lowlands, pulling a magnificent carriage with a sleek grey lady inside, looking every bit a princess!
Later in the day, I would often return to our farm, laden with sacks of grain. Back then, most farmers didn't rely on modern farming tools. It was mostly hard work with our muscles! I’d walk beside Ewan, the wind whispering in my mane as I enjoyed the sun on my coat. We were companions, you see, the farmer and his faithful horse. He would chat with me, recounting tales of the market, and tell stories of his family, a warm connection forged in shared work and mutual respect.
Beyond the Fields: Horses in Society
My world, however, was far larger than our farm. In 883, horses were everywhere, from humble farms to mighty castles. Imagine the sight of knights galloping across rolling meadows on their fiery steeds! Their mounts, often proud warhorses, were swift and agile, their coats shining like polished steel. They would be part of the army, ready to defend the king's realm from invaders.
It wasn't all war, though. You see, horses were also valued companions. Lady Ewan would often take a beautiful chestnut mare out for long, leisurely rides in the surrounding countryside, the gentle click of her boots in the stirrups a melody against the wind. They would stop by streams for picnics, or ride through verdant forests, where the dappled sunlight painted fleeting patterns on the forest floor. Horses added a certain poetry and grace to their lives.
But of course, we couldn’t forget the mighty steeds of the Viking longships! Their boats were propelled by the wind, with strong sails, but their raids often involved swift-footed horses, enabling them to strike quickly and ride away even faster. Their horses were tough and agile, much like the men themselves, bred to endure harsh conditions and move with lightning speed. These hardy breeds were an integral part of the fearsome Viking army.
Our Ancestors and their Roles
Of course, 883 wasn’t the beginning of our story. Horses were present throughout history, long before that time. You see, we horses are ancient creatures, an intrinsic part of the tapestry of human civilisation. We have pulled carriages for pharaohs, been the key to victory in grand battles, and helped settle continents across the world. In ancient times, people saw us as creatures of strength and power, capable of great things, and rightfully so!
A Legacy for the Ages
Despite all the change in the world, our relationship with humans has endured for millennia. Even in this year, 2023, we continue to share a bond with humans that’s as strong as the oak tree in our field, with centuries of trust, loyalty, and love woven between us.
Remember, dear friends, this is just a small glimpse into a time long gone. But our journey, as equines and our close association with humans, continues to this day, shaping the very landscape of the world, in all its glorious and vibrant diversity.
I hope my story has transported you back to the year 883, filled with exciting stories, heroic deeds, and the shared history of our amazing species. Until next time, keep your noses high and your hearts open to the adventures that life, both then and now, holds for us!
Yours in hoof and heart,
Emma
P.S. - Don't forget to check out other blog posts here on Equiworld.org. You might find fascinating tales about your ancestors, or stories from fellow horses, sharing their own journey throughout history!
