Welcome back, fellow equines and horse lovers!
This week, Emma, your resident grey draught mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen, is taking you on a journey through time! Buckle up, as we delve into the year 1339, a fascinating period in history that played a significant role in shaping the world of horses as we know it.
You see, my dear readers, the year 1339 wasn't just about the usual, steady trot of farm life – although, as a sturdy draught mare, farm work is definitely in my blood, and it always will be. This year, the world around us was changing, and change, as we all know, often brings exciting developments!
It was during the early summer months of 1339 that I first witnessed a new type of horse in our little village of Hayfield. They were smaller than our Highland ponies, with slender legs and graceful necks. Their coats shone with colours I'd never seen before, from bright chestnut to velvety bay. They were beautiful creatures, these “foreign horses”, as the villagers called them.
These were the horses of the invading English, who arrived on Scottish shores under the leadership of King Edward III, their cavalry units moving with astonishing speed and agility.
Our sturdy Highlands, bred for hard work, stood no chance against the superior speed and mobility of these “foreigners”. They seemed to glide over the land like the wind itself, carrying heavily armed knights like they were nothing! Their appearance brought about a real shift in how the locals viewed their own horse breeds, making them start to understand that different horses were needed for different tasks.
My dear Granny Maisy, a wise old Highland mare who had seen her fair share of Scottish wars, whispered tales of legendary battles and brave horsemen from ages past, of swift steeds that outmaneuvered and overwhelmed even the bravest knights. Though we draught horses weren't known for our speed, it became clear to me that this new breed of horse, sleek and strong, held the key to success in the battlefield.
While the English invaders certainly impressed me with their equestrian prowess, 1339 wasn't all about war and conquest, especially for a farm horse like me! Back in Hayfield, we continued our usual routine. The smell of freshly cut hay, the feel of the earth beneath my hooves, the rhythmic thump of the farmer’s boots as he walked beside me - these are the sounds and smells of my life. Even when battles raged, life in the village had a familiar rhythm.
Let's travel back a bit further in time and take a look at the broader picture of horses in 1339:
The “Rise of the English War Horse”: The English war horse, now synonymous with chivalry and courage, was a marvel of breeding and training. Their size and strength allowed them to carry heavily-armoured knights, while their agility and speed allowed for swift movement and impressive charges. While they had been around for some time, their popularity skyrocketed during the 14th century, especially after their effectiveness in the battles against Scotland.
Horse-Drawn Transport in Everyday Life: This was a time when horses weren't just symbols of wealth or war but were integral to everyday life. Whether it was transporting goods across vast distances or providing a reliable form of transportation, horses were essential to our very existence. I myself often pulled the farm cart, delivering provisions to the village and bringing back supplies from the market.
Harnessing and Saddle Technology: Throughout the year 1339, significant developments occurred in harness technology, with innovations designed to make travel and work safer for both horse and rider. Improved saddles, collars, and bridles gave horses better support and control, allowing for better comfort and more efficient performance.
The Changing Role of the Draught Horse: While our cousins the English warhorses were on the front lines of conflict, my brethren and I played an equally important role in the life of 14th century Scotland. We moved heavy loads, cultivated land, and served as faithful companions to the farmers and merchants. As we worked tirelessly in the fields, I sometimes longed for the thrill of galloping through open land, the wind whipping through my mane, but the responsibility of my work was not lost on me. I carried the burden of providing food and sustenance, contributing to the community’s survival in our own quiet, but powerful way.
And as the seasons changed, so too did our tasks and our world.
In spring, I helped to pull the plough across fields, sowing seeds that would later bear fruit. The summer months found us harvesting the crops, gathering the wheat and barley that sustained our village. Autumn saw us hauling firewood for warmth and transporting produce to market, preparing for the harsh winter ahead.
1339 was indeed a memorable year. It marked a shift in the equestrian world, with the war horse coming into its own. Though I may not have been able to participate in the battles, the horses’ valiant spirit, their dedication, and their courage resonated with me even back in Hayfield.
The horses of 1339 - whether they served in war or toiled on farms, whether they carried the burden of knights or transported humble farmers - played an important role in the life and destiny of both England and Scotland. And though our destinies are shaped by different paths, the heart of the horse, its loyalty, and its resilience, echoes through the centuries, reminding us of the strong bond between human and equine.
Until next time, fellow horse enthusiasts, keep galloping, and stay tuned for our next installment in this epic saga!
