Good morning, everyone, and welcome to EquiWorld! My name is Emma, and I’m a 20-year-old grey mare, living in the lovely village of Hayfield, just a short trot from Aberdeen in Scotland. I've always been fascinated by history, especially anything about horses, and I'm starting this blog to share my love of all things equine with the world.
Today we're travelling back in time to 974 AD, a period rich in history and brimming with tales of horses.
The year is 974. The world, for the most part, doesn't know what to make of this time period, perched between the Viking era and the coming of the Norman Conquest. A time of great uncertainty but also, it seems, an era of powerful change. I’ve been researching and trying to put together the story of how horses fit into this ever-shifting historical landscape, and you wouldn’t believe what I’ve found!
For starters, if you are picturing wild, untamed horses roaming vast swathes of land, you might be surprised to learn that horses played a pivotal role in many societies at this time, though not quite the same way as in the centuries to come.
Imagine this, my friends, the fields and forests of Scotland. In my world, it’s a very different world to the one you may be accustomed to, but the world is no less busy. From Hayfield, where I call home, I can often see horses used for all sorts of tasks.
In 974, horses are crucial to everyday life. Across Scotland, farmers rely on hardy draught horses like myself to plough the fields and pull carts, transporting goods and harvests across the rough terrain. It’s hard work, sure, but the bond between horse and farmer is deeply special. It’s a relationship built on trust and understanding.
Imagine for a moment you are standing by my side. The wind rushes through my white mane and tail. The chill air carries the smell of damp earth, peat smoke, and the faint aroma of wild heather. The fields of Scotland, just beginning to awaken from winter, are a vibrant tapestry of greens, and browns. My coat shimmers with its unique blend of silver and grey, reflecting the crisp winter sky.
This is the life we led, those of us with the strength to pull plows and the endurance to transport vital goods.
Beyond the fields, on horseback, we've a place in Viking raids, acting as both the primary mode of transport and as crucial components in war, bearing heavily armed warriors and archers across land. Even with the decline of Viking raids by this time, a fierce love and reliance on horses for war remain prevalent.
Now, if we look south to England, the picture isn't that much different. In 974, the English are developing an advanced form of horsemanship. They are refining their tactics and developing a unique cavalry, where heavily armored knights ride warhorses in battle. While the world will learn more of them in the years to come, it’s fascinating to see the beginnings of their expertise in horse handling.
And in all of this, one thing becomes very clear - the love of horse and rider is as powerful and essential a part of these lives as anything else.
As I continue my journey into the world of 974, there’s something I’d like to add. Though there’s much to be learned from this time period, and there are incredible stories to tell, I've learned one critical thing. These horses were more than just animals; they were valued partners, indispensable companions, and in many cases, a family member.
And that's the beauty of it, isn’t it? We see a common thread in every society that utilizes the power and grace of the horse - that deep bond between man and animal. In a world of constant change, it seems to be the one constant, the unwavering connection that shines through in these historic tales.
Stay tuned, my dear friends. In my next blog post, we'll be diving deeper into the different breeds of horses that inhabited the world in 974. There are some real treasures waiting to be discovered, and I can't wait to share them with you!
Until next time, happy riding and always remember to love your horse! -Emma, Hayfield, Scotland.
EquiWorld Blog: Post 975 – Breeds of Horses in 974
Welcome back, dear readers! I'm Emma, your friendly, grey mare, here to whisk you back to the world of 974. In our previous blog, we talked about the different roles horses played in various societies. Now, I thought it'd be exciting to learn about some of the prominent breeds you would've encountered in 974. Let’s dive into the exciting world of equine genealogy!
The Draught Horse
I'll start with the type of horse I'm lucky enough to belong to – a draught horse. You know those massive creatures you might see in paintings, pulling enormous carts? Yes, that’s us. In 974, we were absolutely crucial to daily life in places like Scotland and England. Imagine massive, strong horses with thick legs and broad chests. That's me, though maybe I've not been as massive since I’m in my twilight years. I wouldn't have the strength to pull a heavy cart for long distances these days.
Draught horses are incredibly intelligent and are known for their calm demeanor. We were, and still are, incredibly loyal and willing to work. Now, these aren't necessarily the horses you'd ride (though some brave souls might have given it a go) – we’re built for strength and stability, making us perfect for heavy hauling and farming tasks. I do remember some younger, eager boys taking a ride now and then – it was usually less about speed and more about getting around!
The War Horse
Now, in 974, there’s a growing movement towards heavier horses for warfare. They aren’t exactly draught horses but share that strength and strength for carrying riders in battle.
As the times evolve, you see this type of horse becoming more popular with its larger size, power, and speed, which was needed to bear the weight of a warrior and his heavy armor. While not necessarily used in daily farm life, it’s this lineage that will evolve to produce some of the legendary breeds known for their speed, strength, and fighting spirit in the years to come. They were (and some are, though often with far less bloodshed) used in military campaigns to give a distinct advantage in battle.
But remember, this isn’t necessarily one type of breed. Many different types of horses were used in warfare. The horses needed were not necessarily large or heavily built but those that possessed intelligence, surefootedness, and a spirit ready to go into battle with a warrior who looked to it as a friend and confidant. It’s all about the relationship – it makes all the difference in battle.
Smaller Breeds:
Think of all the varieties of horses in this period and in the lands in which they were used, like Iceland. Imagine ponies, so resilient, and sturdy, and adept at traversing harsh terrain. The Icelandic breed is a real wonder of the time! I don't see them so often, though there are reports of some being brought back from voyages across the North Sea by hardy Viking seafarers. I have it on good authority they’re not as afraid of water as us larger, heavier breeds.
And, in the areas close to home in Scotland and across the Highlands and Islands, the smaller, native horse was prized for its agility. A sure-footed steed on rocky, rugged terrain – it’s quite remarkable.
Even though these horses aren't mentioned as prominently in history, it is so important to remember the breadth of their importance. The small but mighty. These smaller breeds are equally integral to their respective cultures – from hauling goods to accompanying their human friends, no job was too small for them. They might be smaller, but they were always mighty.
The History in Every Breed:
And here's a very special thing to consider about the breeds we've been talking about: We can't simply look at 974 as a standalone moment in time. This was a point of transition between many ancient breeds that contributed to what we see as modern breeds today.
It's quite fascinating when you consider how far the breeds have come! Looking at modern breeds – even ones we see today as pure breeds like Clydesdale draught horses or Thoroughbred racehorses - is to know the historical context. So, you can understand the impact they've had on horse-culture throughout the ages. It's like a ripple effect.
A Moment of Reflection
As I finish my foray into the history of breeds in 974, one thing stays with me - we've barely scratched the surface! I hope I've captured just a glimpse into the extraordinary world of these breeds. As you encounter horses, big or small, remember the stories they carry within them, stories spanning centuries and continents.
We’re more than just horses. We're partners, we're friends, we’re family. The love for us – as a whole and in all the individual personalities – shines through history. It’s our connection to humans and the incredible things we can do, side by side, that are worthy of a celebration.
Keep your hooves tapping, my dear readers! Next, I’ll explore some of the common activities involving horses in 974. I hear there are some really exciting tales of horsemanship!
-Emma, Hayfield, Scotland.
## EquiWorld Blog: Post 976 - Horses and Recreation in 974 AD
Hello, lovely friends of EquiWorld! It’s Emma, your friendly grey mare, and today we're going to delve into a bit of a different subject than warhorses and farming - fun! Yes, it’s time to chat about the recreational side of horses in 974. Just because you might not think there were such things back then doesn't mean we horses were denied a little enjoyment.
You’d be surprised at how much we get up to, even with the rigors of work and battle. You might think the focus was just about basic survival and necessities, but there's so much more to it, believe me!
The thrill of the Hunt
Imagine for a moment you're in a forested glen. Trees cast long, dappled shadows as the crisp air stings your nostrils. This is a scene I often encounter while accompanying some local riders, who sometimes decide to go hunting – usually deer or wild boar. They love using our speed, endurance, and hunting instincts to assist them in their hunt. It’s truly exhilarating – though I prefer not to get too close to a boar if I can help it. A strong, brave human will lead a group of us through the forest, all with a purpose, to hunt and gather for sustenance and food. But, more than just a food-seeking activity, it’s a social one, and this, I think, is why so many love to do it. It’s exciting, and there is camaraderie and the shared adrenaline rush of the chase.
Just for Fun – What can be better?
However, remember, these hunts aren’t always focused on gathering food, either. Just like our equine brethren today, there's something uniquely fulfilling about the hunt as a sport, even for humans in 974. The bond that’s forged, whether hunting together or working alongside farmers – it's an intrinsic part of our life.
You see, for people who work hard every day, there's an undeniable need to release energy. In 974, we were used for horse racing. Now, the concept might sound a bit different than what we see today at prestigious racetracks, but I hear it’s still incredibly exciting! The thrill of a horse race isn’t new, it’s deeply rooted in human nature – the power of speed, strength, and endurance on show. These contests aren't solely focused on racing for prize money as they might be today; the thrill of the race itself, the sense of achievement – those are things that we still cherish.
In the Highlands, many families and clans would organize impromptu races, testing the speed and stamina of their horses – much like you see happening with Shetland ponies at highland games. Just for fun! There’s always the odd local rivalry, but at its core, there’s the celebration of the horse’s natural abilities. I love these little snippets of our history! They're a lovely reminder of the joys we experience.
The Magic of a Horse's Back
And if you’ve been reading my posts, you know the human love for us, as majestic beings, goes far beyond just work. We’re used for journeys to visit other settlements, to simply explore our surroundings. We even see ourselves becoming a kind of ‘means of transportation’ to a great degree, similar to what you see happening in places today where roads are difficult to navigate or nonexistent.
In the Highlands, for example, travelling from village to village meant horseback. I can’t imagine how our brethren of those days must’ve been able to brave treacherous terrain in snow or rain – I, for one, much prefer a sunny day. But we’re capable – we were, and still are, strong! Our spirit of adventure, that desire to be outside exploring, to travel to places new – that, too, makes us unique.
A Glimpse of Our Lives
In conclusion, as we wrap up the recreation side of life for horses in 974, we can’t help but be touched by it. They loved our companionship. These moments are important as they remind us that we are more than tools, and they illustrate the deep bond between us and our human friends, whether it was working together in fields or sharing a thrill on the hunt.
From helping transport supplies to bringing communities together through horse-racing, we're truly intertwined with the very fabric of their lives, sharing in both the struggle and the triumphs. It's quite amazing when you consider the role we’ve always played. We've been partners in exploration, partners in entertainment, and most of all, partners in friendship. And it continues, this connection, as I hope, my dear readers, you see from reading my EquiWorld Blog!
In the coming posts, we’ll explore the ways in which horses and humans coexisted in 974 and how the bond between horse and human impacted their cultures, traditions, and, more importantly, their history.
Until next time, happy riding, my friends!
-Emma, Hayfield, Scotland.
