Hayfield, near Aberdeen, Scotland
Good day, fellow equines and horse lovers! Emma here, your resident grey draught mare with a penchant for good hay and long walks through the fields. I thought it was about time I shared my experiences from the year 1308, a time filled with exciting changes and a glimpse into a world beyond the familiar fields of Hayfield.
I’m starting this blog for a couple of reasons. Firstly, as you might have guessed, I’m a bit of a history buff. Ever since I was a foal, I've loved listening to the stories of my elders - tales of battles fought and land tilled, of magnificent steeds and fearless knights. The tales never fail to fill me with wonder.
Secondly, I've been noticing a change in the world, particularly here in Scotland. More people than ever seem fascinated by our lives, our role in their daily existence. Many seem to forget how important horses like myself are to their well-being. We carry them, we plow their fields, we pull their carts - we're a crucial part of the fabric of life. It's time to set the record straight. This blog will give you a peek into the daily life of a working horse, a draught horse like myself, in the year 1308.
Life in Hayfield:
Let’s begin with Hayfield itself, a quiet village nestled amidst rolling green hills. The scent of peat smoke lingers in the air, a familiar fragrance that mingles with the sweet smell of the hay fields. It’s a simple life here, filled with the rhythm of nature and the sounds of hard work.
Each morning, my days begin before dawn. My owner, a kind old man called Angus, carefully unties me from the stable and leads me to the field where our work awaits.
The most important work, of course, is the plowing. My powerful frame, my surefooted gait, and my unwavering strength make me ideal for this task. The soil here is heavy and stubborn, but I have the strength and the stamina to turn it, leaving furrows that will allow seeds to flourish. The rhythmic groan of the plow as I pull it through the earth is a familiar melody to my ears. It's the sound of progress, of feeding the people, and it gives me a sense of deep satisfaction.
The village also relies heavily on horses like me for transportation. Angus uses me to pull his cart laden with grain to the market in nearby Aberdeen. It's a good few miles each way, and while the cobbled roads can be jarring at times, the feeling of the breeze against my face and the countryside rushing by as we trundle along is always invigorating.
Life is certainly not all work. Angus takes good care of me. Every night, I enjoy a warm mash and a bed of straw, a welcome reward after a long day. My favourite moments are when I’m grazing peacefully in the field, the sun on my back and the scent of fresh cut grass filling my nostrils. Or the quiet evenings when I’m brushing my mane and tail, enjoying the soft, warm touch of my human friend.
Beyond Hayfield:
Though our lives are quite simple here in Hayfield, the year 1308 is bustling with change and excitement beyond the hills. The world is experiencing a time of both conflict and progress.
Across the channel, England's King Edward is struggling with wars and disputes in Wales, while the new Pope, Clement V, sits firmly on his throne in Avignon, France.
Even the humble cart we pull to Aberdeen now feels the impact of this turbulent era. I often hear stories about the use of horses in battles, the valiant steeds of knights who charge into the fray with their lances lowered. While this life holds no appeal for me - I have a simple appreciation for the peaceful fields and a quiet, hardworking life. I do understand the importance of these brave horses in defending their king and country.
Another change in the world that affects me directly is the increase in the popularity of 'The Art of Horsemanship'. This fascinating new method, focused on building a connection and understanding between horse and rider, has taken the world by storm. It aims to improve the efficiency and gentleness of our training, focusing on mutual trust rather than strict dominance. I’m particularly keen to learn more about this new art as I hear it has many positive effects. My owner has been talking about attending a "horsemanship" demonstration in a neighboring village. It might even inspire him to introduce me to this 'softer' approach!
I think it’s a positive development. There’s a natural beauty in the connection between human and horse, and perhaps these gentle techniques will only enhance our connection. It would be a delight to share a more peaceful, compassionate relationship with my own owner.
Life as a Draught Horse
Ultimately, our lives, whether in a busy city or a quiet village like Hayfield, are woven with the rhythm of hard work and unwavering dedication. But also, with love for the fields, the companionship, the connection with our owners, and the essential part we play in the life of the village.
This blog will be my chance to share my story with you. Every week, I’ll be chronicling life as a Draught Horse in 1308. Perhaps you can learn from our shared experiences, discover the fascinating world we inhabit, and remember the importance of our breed, our role in this historic era.
Join me on this journey, my dear friends. Let’s keep this wonderful world of horses thriving!
Until next time, yours truly,
Emma
