A Whinny From Hayfield: 1060
Hello, fellow equines! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen. I’m back for another edition of my blog on “A Horse’s Perspective,” where we’ll delve into the fascinating history of our kind, one year at a time. And guess what? Today’s year is particularly interesting - it’s 1060!
The air in Hayfield this year feels a bit more crisp than usual, perhaps it’s the biting wind off the North Sea, but it feels… significant. Like something’s about to shift in the world.
Don't get me wrong, life here in Hayfield is lovely, a world away from the hustle and bustle of the southern cities. My days are spent grazing in the meadows with my herdmates, enjoying the scent of wild thyme and the cool spray of the nearby river Dee. It’s an easy life, and I’m blessed to share it with my kind – each of them unique and full of character.
But the news that drifts north on the wind from the lowlands, from merchants and travelers, carries whispers of change. We’ve all heard of a man called William - a duke, no less - who’s setting his sights on England. This man, they say, wants the English crown. I’m not sure what a crown tastes like, but it's clearly very important, as the tales spun by travellers suggest great armies are being gathered.
Here in Hayfield, we focus on the simple things: a good roll in the grass, a delicious bunch of hay, and a cool drink from the river.
But this sense of impending change, the rumours of conquest and war, these do not only make our human companions nervous; they make my fellow horses restless, too.
We can feel the shift in their demeanour, the increased attention they pay to their weaponry, the tension in their posture. It makes our own hooves restless. I, for one, have this itching feeling I might be called upon to do my duty… perhaps I will pull a wagon laden with supplies for the men heading south, or maybe even help carry a warrior on my strong back.
These things haven’t happened yet, but they linger in the air like the scent of coming rain. It's almost as if the world itself is holding its breath.
Despite the anticipation and uncertainty, we are strong, and resilient - and like all good horses, we look forward.
For now, we shall remain in Hayfield, watching the winds blow, listening to the whispers carried on them, and waiting for what the future may hold.
Looking Back: What’s new in the horse world of 1060?
You might think life in the horse world was much the same as it always has been, but the truth is, change is constant, even in those days long before our internet connection, Facebook, and fancy new horse treats!
Breeding and types of horses: Well, here in Hayfield, we're mostly drafters, strong and sturdy, made for work. They use us to pull plows and wagons through our hilly lands, transport goods to market, and even carry important people to the towns down south. We are a valued part of the community here, a sign of strength and hard work. And there's always a place for newborns too! We need young ones to learn and grow and be prepared for their future tasks. The bigger stronger horses of the day - the powerful steeds that carry knights on their backs, they were probably born much further south. Perhaps we'll meet one some day.
Riding styles: There was lots of riding around then! Mostly for travel and for warriors who need horses that are strong and quick and trained to fight. And it's amazing what the people of the day can do without our modern saddles! I've heard tell of riders making their own saddles out of stuffed animal hides. Simple, but very clever. I wouldn't fancy doing it without a comfortable saddle.
Horse care: No matter what the century, horses still need good care. I have a great bond with my humans in Hayfield. They provide me with shelter from the rain and wind in a sturdy stall, good grass in the summer, tasty hay when it’s cold, and plenty of fresh water. Plus, there are some good folks in Hayfield that really understand horses, like young Liam. Liam often cleans me, he uses a rough brush and a sponge to make me all shiny. He is learning so much!
Racing: Did you know they were having horse races even back then? I've heard tales from travellers - it seems they have been around for ages. The riders don't wear silly little jockeys’ uniforms though, they have leather trousers, wool tunics, and funny little caps on their heads! We even hear tales from travellers of knights who raced their horses – can you imagine that?
My thoughts: A Horse’s View on the Future
While the wind whispers of a clash to the south, the news reaching Hayfield feels like it’s miles away. I know things might change, and the world might seem unpredictable, but it will probably go back to normal sooner or later.
We are a resourceful and resilient species. I'm happy here in Hayfield, helping my human companions, and looking forward to the next adventure that comes our way.
So until next time, fellow equines. Keep those heads up and tails high, and we'll keep on trotting through history, together.
Emma, Hayfield.
