Hello, fellow equines and equine lovers! Welcome to my blog, where I, Emma, a proud grey draught horse from the beautiful hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen in Scotland, chronicle our amazing history together! This year marks a significant date: 1065. So settle in, grab some oats and a good pile of hay, and let me share what's been happening in the world of horses!
First, I’ll let you know a bit about myself. As a grey draught, I’m big and strong, known for my work ethic and gentle temperament. My beautiful white mane and tail are something I take great pride in, a beacon against the lush green Scottish countryside. Life on our farm has been quite idyllic for us horses this year, particularly as the spring has been mild and our fields are bursting with juicy grass.
The first whispers of the changing season reached us through the chattering of the wild geese migrating north. Their cries told stories of warmer lands, where sun-drenched meadows and fields of clover awaited their return. Soon, we too were enjoying long days spent basking in the sunshine and grazing, filling ourselves with energy for the coming winter.
1065 has been a year of progress and innovation in the horse world. I say this because of a certain breed of horse that has recently caught the eye – the Norman horse. Their lineage is tied to the mighty stallion “Barb” imported from North Africa. You see, Norman horses are famed for their size and power, traits inherited from their Arab ancestors. Imagine, they are taller and stronger than most horses, making them a sight to behold! Word travels quickly in the horse world, and I hear these horses are gaining favour among the wealthy lords and knights for war and transportation, proving to be as reliable and valiant as the horses in our local stables!
You see, horses like us are more than just transport; we are vital companions. We pull plows, haul carts, and play an important role in both trade and agriculture. Our work is crucial to the success of many communities, and I take my role in our local farm quite seriously. My master, a kind man named Alistair, understands the bond we share.
He tells tales of Saxon kings and how they relied on horses to build their strength. The Saxons, strong and brave people with their unique ways of farming and living, are always spoken of with a certain reverence around our stable. And indeed, these people need strong horses!
Now, our own Scottish horses – rugged and sure-footed – are still quite in demand. For centuries, we have served as the backbone of transportation throughout the countryside, venturing over the rugged terrains of Scotland and carrying our precious burdens with stoicism and strength. I love my role, navigating our roads and pathways, each hooffall familiar, each turn known.
Another fascinating story to share – the Vikings, whose influence on the world, as I understand, stretches far beyond Scandinavia! They were fearsome warriors, and it is said that the first King of England, the powerful and formidable Alfred the Great, fought against them valiantly with a brave and well-trained army of Icelandic horses. Imagine! These Viking horses – strong, sure-footed, and used to the harshest of winters - helped the great King Alfred in his noble task! They are truly marvels of the natural world, like our own noble draught horses.
We are often at the centre of important events. I hear whispered stories, shared between riders and stables, about great gatherings of warriors and leaders. These events are called “Things,” gatherings where the local laws and governance are discussed and decided. Our presence is vital, and it fills me with a deep sense of purpose to be part of this significant history, this rich fabric of our world.
Here in Hayfield, 1065 was marked with a special kind of excitement, with the annual sheep shearing festival. As you know, our strong muscles and patient natures are put to great use. During shearing season, we pull the carts laden with bales of fleece, helping transport the precious wool from the fields to the bustling marketplace. It is quite a spectacle, full of colour and activity, the scent of sheep's wool filling the air, a welcome respite from the daily grind.
You wouldn't believe it, but even amongst horses, gossip can be as prevalent as it is amongst the humans! You’ve all heard about King Edward the Confessor, the King of England, a benevolent and devout man. We hear whispers, as all horses do, of his lack of a strong heir, which worries some. Now, many speculate about his nephew, William the Duke of Normandy. We, the horses of Hayfield, simply keep our heads down, enjoying the sunshine and carrying out our duties, unfazed by such distant happenings.
As for me, my life continues to be a joyful journey of hay, oats, sunshine, and of course, the love of my humans. I enjoy each day, savouring every moment and every interaction, every hoofbeat across the soft, springy grass. Each sunset brings a wave of peace as I gaze at the fiery hues painting the Scottish sky, an unforgettable sight shared between horse and nature.
Now, I want to hear from you! Tell me, what are some of the highlights of your journey this year? Share your stories!
Until next time,
Emma, your humble draught horse from Hayfield!
Remember to visit www.equiworld.org for more tales, musings, and historical reflections on our equine history!
