History of Horses in the year 1279

Greetings, fellow equines! It's Emma here, your favourite grey mare from the bonnie hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. This week, we're taking a trip back in time to the year 1279. Yes, you heard me right, over seven centuries ago!

As you know, I’m an avid reader and history buff. So much so, I've even started a little blog right here on EquiWorld! You might be wondering what life was like for a horse like me, way back then, when chivalry was in full swing, castles were built with muscle (and hoof power!), and folks travelled mostly on our sturdy backs. Let me tell you, it wasn’t all sunshine and daisies, but it certainly was an adventurous time.

This year marks a bit of a crossroads for horses. Across Europe, people are becoming more and more accustomed to the benefits of horse riding and horsemanship.

The Crusades have certainly been influential in promoting horses and their abilities! Imagine galloping across the desert, facing down knights in shining armour, and charging into battle! This all came with great responsibility, and many of my brethren lost their lives in those long, dangerous wars. But their dedication brought a new era of respect and awe for horses across Europe.

My own life in Hayfield is, as you’d expect, all about farm work. From the crack of dawn, I'm hitched to a heavy plough, churning the earth, preparing fields for crops like barley and oats. You wouldn’t believe the sheer muscle required to manage the tough Scottish soils! We also pull the cart for haying season, our sweat literally falling on the ground as we toil day after day, ensuring a good winter store.

It's hard work, I won’t deny it, but there is something quite wonderful about being a vital part of the community, feeding families and contributing to a thriving harvest. It makes my strong legs and back feel useful, knowing we play a part in bringing sustenance to our community. I admit though, a bit of rest under the warm sunshine is a real treat after a hard day!

Back in 1279, knights and their horses were very much the height of fashion, the glamour of the time. While I'm just a humble farm horse, I have friends, yes, actual friends, who live in the bustling town nearby and work in service of a noble family. I hear they travel all across Scotland with the Earl! These lucky lads have to train hard though, from sunrise to sunset. The Earl wants nothing but the best from his steeds – the best diet, the most intensive training, and constant grooming, so their fur is glistening, their muscles honed, and their hearts full of fiery spirit! I hear tales of jousting tournaments and impressive displays of horsemanship – it makes me wish I were a little bit more than just a sturdy working horse. Maybe one day I can join them on an adventure.

Speaking of royalty, have you heard? The young King Edward I, recently crowned King of England, is showing a real keen interest in horses. Apparently, he holds quite the collection of prized stallions! My sources whisper that he’s even funding a programme to bring a new breed of horse – a sleek, muscular Arabian horse - into his kingdom. Imagine a horse with a fiery spirit and endurance beyond anything we can dream of!

It's interesting to see this royal influence in the horse world. After all, horses are more than just tools; they’re part of society. They reflect the passions and dreams of our humans. And Edward I's royal passion could mean that the horse world is about to enter a whole new era, with new challenges and exciting opportunities, all thanks to horses like us!

Life for a horse in 1279 is both challenging and rewarding. Horses play a crucial role in the survival of whole villages, enabling the transport of goods, providing valuable sustenance and creating essential movement in the community. Yet, there are some downsides, as there always are in any era. Horses in those days faced harsh weather, limited veterinary care, and a lack of awareness about our health and well-being. There's a sense that many horses are simply "working machines," to be used until they collapse or die, though luckily that isn’t true for all of us. There are compassionate humans, kind and caring folks who give us warmth, proper feeding, and some precious moments of rest and freedom in their care.

The year 1279 reveals something truly important about the world. You see, the evolution of horses isn't just about how horses change; it's also about how society changes and what we value. It’s about the way horses, with our unique power and spirit, reflect back to humans the dreams, goals, and values of their time. We, as a species, have always held a special place in the hearts of humans, being their steadfast companions, their muscle, their loyal companions on adventures big and small. And that remains true even now, centuries after this 1279, a year filled with change and upheaval but a year when horses were essential.

That, dear EquiWorld friends, is the beauty of horse history: It reminds us of who we are, and the powerful relationship between humans and horses that has existed for as long as we have shared this planet! Now if you'll excuse me, it’s time to get back to work! The barley field awaits!

Until next time, stay safe, my equine friends!

Emma, signing off