Hello my fellow equines! It’s Emma here, your favourite grey mare with the white mane and tail. Today, I’m going to take you back in time to a very special year in horse history: 1323!
I was born in Hayfield, a beautiful little village near Aberdeen, Scotland. We had lovely rolling hills perfect for grazing, and I can still remember the wind whistling through the heather as I grazed with my fellow foals.
Being a draught horse, I knew I wouldn't be a flashy, spirited courser like some of the more glamorous breeds. But that didn't mean I wasn't valued. I had a strong, powerful frame, perfect for pulling plows and carts, and I took immense pride in being useful and strong. It was our role to help feed and clothe the village, a noble and important duty indeed.
Back then, life for us horses was simpler. We worked hard, yes, but we also enjoyed the company of each other and the comfort of our familiar fields. You’d find us in all manner of activities, hauling wagons filled with crops to market, dragging heavy ploughs through the soil, and even helping to carry essential goods along long, winding roads.
Now, let’s dive into what was happening in the wider world of horses during 1323. Here’s what I found particularly interesting:
A King and His Steeds: 1323 was a significant year for King Robert I of Scotland. The brave warrior and champion of Scottish independence was enjoying a moment of peace, rebuilding the country after years of conflict. It was his horse that carried him to victory on many a battlefield, and he was a devoted admirer of their strength and loyalty.
Medieval Knightly Glory: As for knights, they were still all the rage in those days! Knights needed strong horses, and I believe the favourite breed back then was the destrier. These impressive steeds were bred for their strength, speed and temperament, and they were vital for any knight's success. You can picture those knightly figures on their elegant horses charging into battle, their metal coats glinting in the sun. Quite the picture!
Horseback Riding for the Everyday Person: But it wasn't all about knights and royalty, you know. Horseback riding was actually a popular mode of transportation for the common people as well! In those times, travel was long and slow. We were a necessary part of the everyday rhythm, helping villagers, traders, and even monks travel from town to town.
The Horse Fair: My favourite part of 1323 was the horse fair. It took place every year at the start of summer, and it was a glorious occasion. Imagine hundreds of horses, all sorts of shapes and sizes, from strong workhorses like me to the sprightly, elegant ponies and thoroughbreds, all brought together to be admired and evaluated! The best part was seeing all the children running around excitedly and giving all the horses apples and carrots. I admit, I never say no to a good apple.
Warfare and Horses: However, I do need to address a touchy subject that was unfortunately always present in those times - warfare. We horses were crucial to medieval battles, both on the battlefield and for logistical support. Armies depended on our strength for hauling provisions and weaponry. It was a scary time to be a horse. Thankfully, here in Scotland, we enjoyed relative peace during that year.
*So what was a day in my life like back in 1323? * I'd typically wake up to the rooster crowing, stretch out my limbs, and then head out with the other horses to the fields. After breakfast (a healthy, green breakfast of grass and barley), I might spend the morning hauling a cart loaded with grain for the mill or pulling a plough through the fertile fields.
Later, I’d join my friends for a relaxing afternoon of grazing, napping in the shade of a tree, or maybe rolling around in the dust for some fun. We'd even sing our equine songs together - horses have their own language, you know, just a series of whinnies and snorts that only other horses can understand. It was the purest joy.
In the evening, we'd settle down to rest and let our hooves take a break from the day's activities. My best friend, a lively mare called Luna, often told me stories of other horses in far-away lands. She spoke of steeds used for hunting, the amazing journey of nomadic horses, and even of the grand spectacle of warhorses parading in elaborate armour, much to our amusement.
But you know what? Through all the stories and all the changes, the love of horses was universal. It was in the glistening eyes of a knight charging into battle, the grunting efforts of a plow horse, the gentle companionship of a packhorse sharing the road, and in the sweet whinnies of foals playing in the fields.
We, the horses, are strong, brave, and intelligent, and our relationship with humans is as fascinating and diverse as history itself. And that, dear friends, is why it is important for us to remember our own story.
I’ll keep you all updated with further tales of horses throughout history on this blog, so do come back and visit often. And remember to share with your friends, families and communities all the amazing ways that horses have helped shape history!
Until next time, Emma the Grey Mare
