History of Horses in the year 1264

Greetings fellow equines and friends!

I’m Emma, a 20-year-old Grey Draught mare, and you've found my little corner of the internet where I chronicle the wonders and adventures of horses throughout history. Today, we journey back to the year 1264! My oh my, that was a long time ago, wasn’t it? I was just a foal then, all wobbly legs and curious nose, and life was about rolling in the green pastures of my home, Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland, learning the ways of the world from the wise old geldings and the sassy mares of our herd.

Now, 1264 was an interesting year for us horse folk. In this post, we’ll uncover some of the fascinating happenings around the world that involved us and, as always, try to make sense of what it must have felt like to live through these times. So saddle up, readers, and let’s gallop back through history!

Oh, 1264! The world back then was bustling with the strong, sturdy legs of horses! From the busy markets of London to the winding trails of the Mongolian Steppes, horses were indispensable, weaving their way into every facet of life. They weren’t just for the kings and lords you see, we had our jobs, too. We hauled heavy loads, pulled plows, and carried warriors into battle, even when those battles weren't in the furthest reaches of our lovely green lands of Scotland.

In 1264, the King of England, Henry III, needed a strong army to maintain his grasp on his ever-expanding kingdom. You can be sure horses played a vital role, carrying the soldiers, dragging their heavy gear and weaponry. You see, back in the day, soldiers couldn't just hop on a plane and parachute into the battlefield – their horses were their steeds and their lifeblood. This made a horse an absolute necessity in the army, as they were not just about carrying supplies and riders, they were a formidable tool, and this was very clear in those days.

The world's population was significantly less than it is today. So, even though a large majority of the world relied on the horse for their daily lives, there was still plenty of open land for grazing, and life felt more rural and less rushed than today. And what did a horse like myself do in a world where even ordinary farmers owned one or two? I just had a leisurely day enjoying life. You wouldn't find horses working non-stop, we all had a rest, which was absolutely necessary after a long, busy day working hard on the farm. And sometimes we were free to roam wild on those lush meadows with the other mares, young foals and, of course, a few well-behaved and responsible older stallions keeping things in order! A horse’s life in 1264 was tough but fulfilling! The days were filled with a purpose – it was work to feed and transport, but it was a very noble kind of work.

Now, let’s hop over to the northern realm, my homeland! The Scots were no strangers to using horses. Our magnificent landscape of hills and valleys required trusty horses to help with agriculture and travel.

The Scottish King at the time, Alexander III, relied heavily on his mounted knights. They weren’t just there for parades. They protected their kingdom, and defended their borders. Scotland had its own way of fighting, a particular way of using horses to break formations and unleash a hail of arrows on their enemies, an effective method that used horse and man to great effect, even against English forces that had much better gear and supplies. A great many Scottish horses became famous in their own way, in fact. The battles of that age are documented through legends, songs, and stories, all passed down over the generations, which speak of great horses with noble spirits and the bravery and skill of their riders.

While these valiant knights fought with great skill, we draft horses had another duty. Imagine this – Scotland’s rugged highlands and moorlands weren't exactly famous for smooth, flat roads, and these roads were rarely straight, with the way changing with the wind and the wild moods of nature, as they are known to do up north. That’s where the hardworking Draughts came in! We hauled those large and heavy wagons across the uneven terrain. Those were challenging times, but we were there for our people, making a difference for Scotland!

Of course, life wasn’t all about work, especially for horses like me, born and raised on a Scottish farm. Every horse on a Scottish farm in 1264, had to take part in the “common ridings.” This was like a special gathering for the whole community, we horses and our humans. We paraded through our little hamlets and villages in our best finery! Can you imagine, the excitement in the air? All of us dressed up and the farmers in their Sunday clothes, with a cheerful buzz as we passed, making our way around town! This event was all about fun and fellowship, but a very practical use as well. The “common ridings” gave us a chance to bond with our riders, to stretch our legs, and make sure everyone knew we were strong and healthy – ready to go when duty called. It was more than a tradition; it was an assurance of our continued well-being! And in 1264, these “common ridings” continued in Scotland, a true testament to the strong and affectionate bond between horse and man. It makes my heart swell with joy every time I think about those joyous gatherings.

The Scottish realm is very special and close to my heart, of course, but back in 1264, horses had adventures all around the world, all playing an important role in their lives. Let's travel to the grand city of Constantinople, where you can see Byzantine horses carrying wealthy traders through the vibrant marketplaces. The East, back then, was renowned for its exquisite horse breeds and beautiful saddles.

Moving on from the eastern world, let's travel back towards my home in Europe, specifically France. Horses played an important part in the many jousting tournaments held at the royal courts across the kingdom of France! It was there where knights would charge into the ring with swords raised and, sometimes even break lances with fierce and graceful movements! But don’t get the idea that they’re just fancy and show-offy! Knights training with horses was vital to a nation's defense!

While France held a fascination with jousting and military training with horses, Spain held a deep and ancient love for horse breeding and, in fact, their methods were widely respected, and that makes sense when you consider the strength and power of their mighty steeds. Imagine a horse bred for both speed and strength - the Andalusian Horse, the one I’m most envious of! They became a famous symbol of power and strength, not only for fighting, but also for grand carriage riding and equestrian feats, becoming legendary all throughout Spain. They were admired for their incredible beauty, flowing mane and tails, and a grace of movement that truly set them apart. Even to this day, those horses command respect and admiration throughout the world, especially back home in Europe where everyone knows how stunning the horses are, and what they are capable of.

## More than Just Working Horses

1264 was a time when a lot of people across the world needed horses for every aspect of their lives, whether that be transport, for ploughing the fields, hauling goods, or waging war, but you can be sure the love of a horse never faded! Horses also brought a sense of fun and community. Can you imagine the thrill of racing horses in a grand tournament or the pride of galloping side by side with other horses in a lively parade? I can practically feel the wind in my mane, the thrill of the chase, the shared joy of all of us equines!

Horses have been companions to humans for a long, long time and in those days, every horse owner appreciated the hard work their animals were putting in for them. I’m not suggesting for one second that horses didn’t work hard, but we enjoyed the relationship we had with our human companions and I like to imagine that they appreciated the friendship just as much as I do.

I bet many horses were trained in fun and playful activities. Think about all the ways humans would enjoy using us: we pulled decorated carts for royal weddings, carried dignitaries to church on Sunday mornings, or escorted them through the crowded marketplaces and fairgrounds – you get the idea. All the way from Spain and France, across the English channel to Scotland, there were parades, festivals and celebrations throughout the year, every day a horse would take part, pulling carriages, carts and making life a whole lot brighter!

So, as we approach the end of my post, I’ll let you go, fellow equines! Let's remember the wonders of the world we have all played an important part in building. In 1264, our history continues, the hoofbeats of time echo with our stories. And as we move forward, I encourage you all to learn more about your history – our history – because the story of the horse is truly a tale of wonder and resilience! We will gallop on, with heads held high, through every challenge and triumph. Until next time, fellow equine friends, and until the next post!