History of Horses in the year 0905

Hello my fellow equines!

It’s Emma here, writing from my stable in the heart of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. It's a crisp autumn day here, with a biting wind that whistles through the trees. I love this time of year – the smell of burning wood in the village hearths, the crispness in the air, and the sound of my hooves on the dew-kissed grass. It reminds me of what it means to be a horse, truly at home with the changing seasons.

This week, I'm taking you back to the year 905! This time, however, it isn't just about me. Today, we're going on a journey to discover the world of horses during a fascinating, dynamic period. So, buckle up (metaphorically, of course!) and get ready to journey back in time.

It's 905 AD. Across Europe, a patchwork of kingdoms exists, with each facing its own challenges. From the grandeur of the Holy Roman Empire in the South to the Viking settlements scattered across Scandinavia, life was constantly changing. And in this changing world, horses played a crucial role.

From their powerful role in war and agriculture to their companionship and contribution to commerce, these majestic creatures were woven into the fabric of human society.

Here in Hayfield, life for our kind revolves around farm work. We, the drafthorses, are the backbone of our small community. The land surrounding us is tough, with a heavy clay soil. Each day we work tirelessly to till the fields, pull carts laden with supplies, and haul stones for building projects.

There's young Tom, the lively chestnut with a fiery spirit. Then there’s Mary, a sturdy black mare, a quiet and gentle soul. She often rests her head on me during a break in the day, her gentle sigh almost making the breeze rock back and forth. She's wise beyond her years and a calming presence amongst the herd.

But of course, no herd is without its troublemakers. I do my best to keep an eye on Wilbur, a stubborn bay with a fondness for getting into scrapes. He just loves testing his strength and sometimes that leads to accidents. This week, he decided it was a good idea to nibble the local farmer’s prize winning sheep and spent the day locked in a pen. It was all very silly, but we can't deny, Wilbur has a charm to him that makes everyone laugh.

Despite the sometimes challenging work, we love our life here. The freedom of galloping through the wind, the comfort of a warm stable after a hard day, and the strong bond we share – all contribute to a sense of belonging and peace.

Far from our humble village, however, a different type of equine story is unfolding. Knights and warriors across the world depend on their horses for both war and peace. Horses are their steeds, their companions, and the driving force behind their military strength.

These are not your typical drafthorses; these are sleek, powerful steeds known for their speed, stamina, and agility. From the mighty warhorses of the Norman knights to the graceful steeds of the nomadic Turkic tribes, these horses were symbols of power, bravery, and honour. They were trained to carry heavy armour and to charge fearlessly into battle. Their agility was paramount, enabling swift movements, sudden changes of direction, and efficient evasion of enemy forces.

Even further afield, in the bustling cities, we hear whispers of change in the way people see us horses. As trade routes expand and economies boom, there is a demand for steeds that are agile, hardy, and reliable for long journeys.

I understand that the Arab horse is particularly prized for its speed and endurance. They can travel for days on end with minimal rest, traversing challenging landscapes and making swift deliveries.

I also hear that the Norsemen, famed for their daring raids and impressive maritime skills, favour strong and sure-footed ponies. These are ideal for navigating rugged terrain and crossing difficult waterways.

It’s truly fascinating how such diverse and important roles are given to horses. The world is changing, and horses continue to play a vital role in shaping the lives of humankind.

The future seems bright for us horses! I feel the growing sense of appreciation and respect for our role. It's something to be proud of, and it brings me comfort knowing that we'll continue to play an integral part in society.

And as we head into the season of colder weather, with frosty mornings and short, golden days, I know we have much to be thankful for. We’ll be cosy and warm in our stables, enjoying the taste of hay and the company of our herd. And there is always something new to learn about our history.

Remember, there's always more to discover about the incredible world of horses, from the rolling hills of Hayfield to the distant battlefields of Europe! Keep exploring, my friends, and continue to appreciate the legacy we carry in our hearts and hooves.

See you again next week for more equine tales, Emma