Posted by Emma on www.equiworld.org - Blog Post Number 1138
Greetings, fellow equines and equine enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare, and it's time for another blast from the past, a look back at a pivotal year in equine history - 1138 AD, to be precise.
Oh, what a year it was! As you can imagine, in those days, news travelled a lot slower than today's instantaneous digital chatter, but even then, certain things rippled across the world with astonishing speed, influencing even our lives here in Hayfield, near the bustling city of Aberdeen, in the north of Scotland.
I remember it as if it were yesterday - I was just a young filly, turning 20, my coat shining like moonlight on a frosty night, my white mane and tail flowing in the wind as I carried my sturdy farm cart filled with hay bales to the barn.
It was a blustery day, typical of a Scottish autumn, with clouds hanging low, a biting wind, and the air already holding a whiff of frost. The air vibrated with anticipation; everyone, humans and animals alike, sensed the shift in the world's energy. It was the year King David I of Scotland, the very one who built my favourite spot to graze, near the stunning Loch of Lintrathen, died. The impact of his passing was a subtle hum through the land, an uncertainty felt more than spoken.
But here, on the rolling green hills of Hayfield, life carried on much as always. Our farmer, a man called Iain, had an almost-magical connection to us, his horses. We toiled and grazed in tandem, a dance between need and affection. He always spoke in hushed tones to us, like he shared our silent world, understanding us better than any human should.
As the year turned, a newsman on horseback rode through the town, his tired horse swaying with the weight of his journey. He spread tales of what would come to be called "the second Crusade," a movement spurred by the pleas of the Byzantine Emperor Manuel Komnenos, desperate for help against the powerful Seljuk Turks. The news of men riding into war was always a source of concern for horses like us. Though we, as draught horses, were unlikely to be called upon for battle, our strong breeds were often prized by those humans who chose to ride into harm's way.
It was a year of uncertainty. News trickled in of clashes and campaigns, whispered about in hushed tones. Some men spoke of the horrors of battle, the screams, the blood, the fear. Others dreamt of the thrill of the charge, the camaraderie of brothers-in-arms. But amidst the tumultuous noise of the human world, our lives continued in our steady, unhurried way.
A Look At The Wider World:
Looking back through history's pages, 1138 was an impactful year, not just in Scotland. Across the globe, significant happenings influenced the way horses were viewed, valued and used:
The Rise Of The Warhorse: With the Crusade in full swing, it was a year of intense focus on the warhorse, with knights training alongside their steeds, honing their skills and developing sophisticated tactics that used the horses' speed and agility to devastating effect. This is the birth of the highly trained, intricately armored warhorse, one of the defining icons of medieval Europe.
Horses & The Changing World: Though often overlooked, this time period saw significant development in other aspects of horse use too. From the rise of trade networks relying on swift, hardy horses like mine, to the expansion of agriculture, driven by draught horses like us - we were essential to the daily life of people around the world. Even if the limelight shone brightly on the battlefield, behind the scenes, horses were instrumental in the day-to-day function of society.
The Legacy Of Our Breed: It is important to remember that the mighty warhorses we often romanticise today would not be possible without our humble, sturdy ancestors. The ability to haul heavy loads, till fields, and traverse difficult terrain paved the way for the evolution of breeds capable of combat. In a sense, our quiet lives are linked to the daring feats of knights on horseback.
Horse Breeds And Styles:
While 1138 may not have seen the creation of new horse breeds, it marked a period of significant change in how breeds were utilized. This is particularly evident in England:
The Noble Charger: This was the pinnacle of warhorse development. Their stamina, speed and intelligence were cultivated with dedication, their training requiring careful planning and meticulous care. While we, the humble workhorses, couldn't dream of the glory of battle, we understood the value placed on our brethren - for without our ability to work, transport and even produce, they would not be able to shine.
The Workhorse And The Family: My brethren and I, the hardy draught horses, formed the backbone of the farming community. As the backbone of many communities, we helped to bring in the harvest, carrying supplies and produce from field to village. We carried families and goods, even those heading off on long pilgrimages. While we were often a familiar sight pulling the plow and cart, we were a vital thread in the fabric of everyday life, loved and relied upon.
Equine Tales & Legends:
1138 also saw the development of fascinating equine folklore. Tales spread through the land, some recounting acts of great bravery in battle, others depicting the cunning and loyalty of horses. Stories about wild horses roaming free in distant lands ignited imaginations, and even those of us confined to the fields felt a spark of yearning for boundless freedom. We, the draught horses, had our own version of the same longings – for endless pastures, unburdened by work. These tales, while mythical and fantastical, painted a picture of a deep respect and appreciation for the role of the horse in people’s lives, be it a beast of burden or a trusted companion.
The Power Of Connection:
This year, and every year since, I've learned a crucial truth - the bond between humans and horses goes beyond our roles. There's a connection born out of respect, shared toil, and the shared journey of life. It's a silent conversation, built on understanding, trust, and love, and it makes every year feel special.
As we head towards the new year, let us cherish the memories of 1138 and carry with us the spirit of connection and dedication it embodied. In these uncertain times, we remain, as always, a source of strength, hope, and companionship, a testament to the unwavering bond that unites humans and horses.
Until next time, may your hooves graze well, and your heart be full of the warmth of connection.
Emma, the Hayfield grey mare.
