Neigh Neigh, lovely readers!
It's Emma here, back for another installment of my journey through time. Today, I’m going to be talking about a very important year for both myself and the horse world in general – 1255! I was just a young filly, a bit like my namesake, Emma, who, I’m told, was a famous English queen some centuries ago. We Grey Draughts are hardy, loyal, and known for our strength. In Hayfield, a village nestled amongst the Scottish Highlands near Aberdeen, my life was one of purpose and routine.
The World Outside my Hayfield Stable:
As I munch on my breakfast of sweet, fragrant hay, my human companion, a kind woman named Fiona, tells me tales about the outside world. 1255 is a year filled with exciting things – exciting, at least, from my perspective as a horse! You see, across the water, in England, there’s a new King! He’s named Henry III, and apparently, he is a big fan of hunting with horses. Now, you all know how much I love a good gallop across open fields, so it's quite wonderful to hear of these royal outings.
The Horses of Royalty:
Fiona tells me stories of King Henry’s passion for riding and hunting. I imagine majestic chargers carrying him through the woods, with elegant riders following behind, just as we do during our hunting excursions. She tells me the king keeps a stable full of warhorses, as well as elegant stallions for pageantry. They’re said to be the best of the best! You wouldn’t believe the extravagant trappings some of these horses wear. The jewels! The gold! You’d think they’re princes themselves.
Horses on the Battlefield:
1255 is a year filled with turmoil, it seems. King Henry's reign is not without conflict. His men, riding atop warhorses, are often engaged in battles, and there are many knights in England now preparing for war. Fiona mentions how King Henry is very keen to maintain his kingdom and control. A man called Llewelyn ap Gruffydd, a Welsh Prince, has challenged the English throne, leading to much conflict. You see, horses are crucial to these wars. Knights charge into battle mounted on strong, courageous warhorses, and archers gallop beside them, unleashing volleys of arrows.
I can’t imagine how terrifying that must be. Here in Scotland, though our peaceful village enjoys quiet stability, there are rumours that the king is preparing to lead his army north to face his enemies. It's all a bit unnerving, to be honest.
A Day in the Life of a Draught Mare:
The good news is, despite the wars, life in Hayfield continues to be quite tranquil. As a sturdy Grey Draught, my duties are mostly about hauling heavy loads and helping farmers with their daily tasks. You wouldn’t believe the things we pull – wagons loaded with wheat, sacks of potatoes, barrels of barley. Even a small barrel of oats seems enormous!
Early mornings often begin with a refreshing run to the well for water, carrying a barrel full to quench everyone's thirst. Later, my days are spent with Fiona. Sometimes, it’s plowing fields, where my strong hooves churn the soil. Other times, it’s delivering goods to the local market, where my size and stamina make me a vital cog in the village’s routine. You can’t forget about the carts filled with supplies for the baker or the cobbler. Our draught horses are true workhorses, but we do it all with joy, especially when we know it helps everyone in our community.
The farmers seem to appreciate my tireless efforts, offering me a few pats and gentle scratches as I finish a task. And then there are those treats - apples and sweet carrots! A tiny morsel of sugary sweetness makes all the hard work worthwhile.
More than Just Strength:
Although our primary job is to help with the practical side of village life, my strength is appreciated beyond just hauling cargo. In winter, I’m also vital to hauling lumber and preparing wood for fires. My strong legs, thick coat, and steady nature help us weather harsh storms and freezing cold nights. In Hayfield, I feel very important, just like a hardworking villager with an essential role to play.
My Connection to Fiona:
The bond I share with Fiona is one of mutual trust and deep understanding. Fiona is incredibly patient, taking care of my every need – a daily dose of oats, a thorough brushing, and a kind word to encourage me throughout the day. She even braids my white mane and tail, which she thinks looks beautiful. She also tells me tales of old times, tales about horses from many years past. Sometimes, she brings me stories from ancient scrolls - legends about Pegasus, the winged horse, and the wise, old Centaurs, half man, half horse. She even sings me little songs about these wonderful beings.
Fiona tells me of horse racing competitions where men sit astride magnificent horses, competing for honours. I can't help but dream of a world where a strong, determined horse like myself, with my magnificent mane and powerful hooves, could be the one competing. I’m sure my white mane would gleam in the sun, and the ground would rumble under my feet as I sprint towards the finish line! But as she explains, this world is different, a world where strong horses like me are prized for their work ethic. And so I continue to fulfill my duties, knowing that my work in Hayfield matters to the people around me.
Keeping our Horses Healthy:
The blacksmith’s son, Daniel, comes regularly to make sure my hooves are trimmed. I have to admit, it's not the most enjoyable process, but it’s important. Healthy hooves mean I can work long and strong.
The veterinarian, an old fellow called Mr. Duncan, is a kind soul. He’s always available for check-ups. When one of our stable mates had a cough last month, Mr. Duncan arrived and dispensed the remedies – something about thyme, peppermint, and a sprinkle of ginger – I heard them all say that it helped.
Always Time to Play:
Though my work in Hayfield is crucial, there are moments for relaxation too. At dusk, when the sun casts a golden hue across the countryside, I often enjoy a brisk gallop across the open fields, kicking up my heels and feeling the wind whip through my mane. I'm especially proud of my white tail that blows behind me as I run! Sometimes, I gather with other horses from nearby farms and stables to graze peacefully in a nearby meadow. There, amidst the wildflowers and tall grass, we have impromptu chats and swap stories about our days. It’s quite the sight to behold – so many magnificent horses, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun!
1255: A Year for Remembrance:
As 1255 draws to a close, I am deeply grateful for the life I have in Hayfield. Even with the distant whispers of war and conflict, our little village, our kind humans, and my dear Fiona offer me a life of contentment and purpose. The future might hold changes, but right now, I feel truly blessed to be a Grey Draught, living amongst the Scottish Highlands in this remarkable year, 1255.
So, dear readers, until next time! Stay safe, and keep your hooves healthy!
Your loving equine friend,
Emma
