History of Horses in the year 1224

Greetings, fellow equines!

Emma here, your trusty guide to the captivating world of horses. It's me, your favourite grey draught mare with the flowing white mane and tail, coming to you live from Hayfield, near the bustling town of Aberdeen. It's a fine spring morning here in the highlands of Scotland. The air is crisp and smells of heather and fresh earth, perfect for a long gallop across the rolling hills, especially when the sun is just starting to warm up the morning air.

Now, as we all know, here on EquiWorld, we celebrate our rich history. So, grab your favourite oatcakes, pull up your comfy hay bales, and join me on a journey back in time. Today, we’re venturing into the year 1224. Buckle up, friends, because you're about to be whisked away to a fascinating era of horses!

Oh, 1224. Such a bustling year for workhorses like me! My life revolves around a strict routine. I wake up with the sunrise, munching on the freshest barley and hay, feeling the warm sun on my coat. We’re mostly used for hauling heavy carts, carrying supplies, and pulling ploughs across the fields. You can see us hard at work in every village, ferrying goods, making life easier for the farmers. We even take our place alongside knights during battle.

Life can be tiring, but we enjoy a strong bond with our masters. They’re respectful, providing us with plenty of oats and grooming. They are aware of our strength and stamina and treat us accordingly. I have always admired their bond with us. It feels natural. This sense of collaboration makes me appreciate what a key role horses play in their lives. They need us just as much as we need them!

This year has been quite remarkable. Just recently, I learned about a momentous event - the first ever horse racing competition hosted by King Alexander II in Perth! Apparently, knights all over Scotland were riding in this event. The winner was gifted with an extravagant prize - a beautiful saddle! They told me that horses like me were allowed to participate, but naturally, my work schedule wouldn’t allow it!

You might think horses in 1224 are primarily workhorses. You would be mostly right. But this year also saw the rise of more luxurious pursuits for some horses. The noble steeds are coveted as warhorses. You often hear stories of a great knight like William Wallace or, closer to home, William Comyn, travelling on the back of these horses.

Just a couple of months ago, news travelled from far and wide that the King's Court held a grand feast and a grand tournament at Stirling. Can you imagine! The event included horseback games, mock battles, and lots of festive merriment. Horses were decked out in ornate armor and beautiful saddles - you never see me wearing such lavish gear, not when I’m dragging carts through the mud!

One day, while in the stables, I heard whispers from the older horses. They shared tales of magnificent steeds ridden by the king's men, trained in the art of jousting! Their skills, they say, are remarkable! The older horses claimed that even the King was said to be a skilled rider! Just imagine – riding alongside such great warriors. It’s almost enough to make a hardworking mare like me dream of adventure.

Another event, whispered about at the hayloft, happened in 1224. I'm not quite sure how, but word somehow traveled to Hayfield about a horse race at the "Fair of Aberdeen." It’s a far, far away land where, they say, horses like me can even race and have the chance to win a reward! Sadly, the journey was too far for my humble mare, and my job here, well, you can imagine!

Although my life is grounded in hauling burdens and being useful to man, these stories give me an insight into other possibilities for horses in the world. Imagine galloping freely across the land! It must be truly exhilarating to race at speeds unknown!

These glimpses into other worlds do stir something within me. I wonder sometimes how much better or worse my life could be if I wasn't bound by duty and obligation. Still, my strong sense of duty keeps me grounded. I feel that even in my modest role as a humble draught horse, I can contribute to the life around me.

In Hayfield, life may be tough, but it is honest and honest is good. My world may be small compared to the glamorous events happening elsewhere. But, honestly, it’s the horses in our village who are truly valuable! We do the necessary tasks – ensuring the survival and prosperity of our masters. We play a critical role in a thriving society!

As I said earlier, this is an extraordinary time in our horse history. It is important to remember all the hard-working horses that are a part of it. You can find them hauling goods, powering plows in the fields, even bravely standing shoulder to shoulder with the brave knights on the battlefield. Each role is vital, even mine, the grey mare who diligently pulls carts through the muddy roads!

Until next time, remember - there's nothing quite as magnificent as the horse. Let’s take pride in all we do! Be brave. Stay strong! I’ll see you all soon with the next post!

Signing off,

Emma