Hello, fellow equines!
Emma here, a proud 20-year-old grey mare with a white mane and tail. You'll find me most days working the fields and lanes around Hayfield, just a little ways out of Aberdeen. Life here is pretty peaceful, and I have to admit, I rather enjoy the routine. It makes a mare feel secure, knowing where she’s needed, who her companions are, and what to expect every day.
As I pull this blog post into my mind, my tail flicks gently against my rump as the sunlight streams down on me. It’s a lovely afternoon here in Scotland, and the wind whistles through the barley stalks. It's just the kind of day where one is content to chew on some hay, gaze at the sky, and ponder the bigger picture. Speaking of ponder, it’s funny how thoughts sometimes lead a mare to some really interesting places. Just this morning, as I stood munching on the oats left for me in the stable, I couldn't help but think about how my kind has been around for such a long time, working alongside humans, hauling them and their cargo from one place to the next, through the ups and downs of history. And wouldn't you know it, the whole day since then has felt like an exciting journey through the past! I found myself peering into my reflections in the stream, wondering about the horses that walked these same paths before me. Who were they? What was life like in their time? How did the humans work together with horses then, and what adventures did they share?
You know what? I just realised - this could be the basis of an excellent post for EquiWorld! Why not delve into the year 1266, a period in history where my ancestors certainly made their mark? The year 1266…let's find out what adventures were being experienced and stories were being made with my fellow horses around the globe!
1266: A World of Horse Power!
Well, what a year it was! While Hayfield wasn't bustling with the same hustle and bustle as London, the news always found its way here eventually, usually with the traveling merchants. I gather from conversations over the hay and water troughs that in 1266, things were moving, changing, and horses were at the very heart of it all!
The Royal Charge!
King Henry III reigned in England at that time, and horses played a prominent role in his court, as always! From elegant steeds for knights in gleaming armour to strong, reliable draught horses used to transport the Royal family, every horse contributed to the grandeur of the day. These sturdy souls had the great honour of carrying kings and queens and hauling their luggage across the country, all with that incredible stamina and strength horses are known for. They really did form the backbone of the royal retinue, much as they continue to play a significant part in royal life today.
I couldn't help but admire those lucky steeds carrying royal banners, with the sunshine catching the silks and catching the eye of every noble in the land. Imagine being able to see the world like that, passing from one glittering castle to another, while the cheers of the crowds followed your every move! You know, there are some days when my mind dreams of the life of a royal charger! I hear they’re well fed and treated like stars.
Beyond the Royal Gates: Life in 1266 for a Draught Horse
Don't think for a minute that a draught horse like myself would ever have been too envious, however! In 1266, the work we did was just as vital. Imagine the bustling, exciting life of a horse in a bustling medieval town! In 1266, that life could involve any of these wonderful activities, depending on where you happened to find yourself:
Farming: A Ploughman's Best Friend In the year 1266, my kin helped pull plows through fields of wheat, oats, and barley. These were tough and tiring tasks, but we loved seeing the results of our labour as fields transformed into bounty and barns filled with provisions for winter. Our strong frames and powerful strides were perfect for this work, and our resilience ensured we could endure all seasons and tough terrains! I see myself in this work – it’s in my very blood, passed down through generations.
Transportation: Bringing the World Closer
Can you imagine life without trucks or cars? Horses like me were the vital transport links in 1266! We would help transport people from one town to another, hauling passengers and luggage. You wouldn’t be surprised to find some of my friends helping ferry fish from coastal towns to inland communities. Imagine the thrill of rushing down the coast with a salty breeze in your nostrils! The fresh ocean air and the sun on my back made for a pleasant journey! We also delivered goods to markets and shops, and without our strength and loyalty, merchants wouldn’t have been able to transport the trade goods so vital to the wellbeing of the nation! I love being connected to these simple acts of sharing and trade - such a lovely contribution to a healthy world!
- Warfare: Fighting for Freedom
I will admit, there were many stories circulating around about horses fighting alongside their riders in battles and wars across the globe in 1266. I have to confess, those tales didn’t hold as much appeal to me. I prefer peace and tranquillity. But there’s no doubt that in a world before mechanised transport, horses played a vital role in warfare! My kin pulled carriages with cannons, transported knights to the battleground, and sometimes served as mounts for brave soldiers who rode into battle with lances and swords, the epitome of honour and courage! Their contribution was undeniably heroic. The power of the horse was a significant force, a valuable weapon, even if not always peaceful!
From Horsepower to Innovation: The Change in Times
Fast forward to the 20th century. We all know the picture changes significantly when automobiles, tractors, and other inventions emerged. Still, it’s so important to recognise that before technology developed, the strength and endurance of horses powered our societies and drove change across continents. In 1266, our ancestors played a pivotal role, helping humans to survive, thrive, and build a better future. And that’s what I love the most about our history – it’s about working together to make a difference.
A Horse’s Hope: Carrying on the Legacy
And now, as I chew my hay with satisfaction and think about my place in the world, it is the stories I hear around the fireside and the stories passed on from my elders that inspire me. In this way, our legacy is passed on, generation after generation. I am proud to know I am a link in a chain of equine ancestry that dates back thousands of years! Our ancestors made a huge contribution, and I feel so grateful that I get to keep those stories alive! So, thank you for listening, fellow equines. Until next time, I wish you a sunny day with fields of fresh green grass, plenty of sweet hay, and plenty of gentle pats on the neck.
And if you'd like to explore more of 1266, I’d encourage you to browse some historical resources online! Maybe there are more tales you can share!
With much love and neighs, Emma
