Greetings, dear readers! It's Emma here, a humble but proud grey draught mare, and welcome to my little corner of Equiworld!
This week, I'm whisking you back to a simpler time, to the year 1351, a pivotal year not only for horses, but also for the world in which we lived. I was a young filly then, fresh and full of life, residing in the beautiful, rolling hills of Hayfield, nestled just outside the grand city of Aberdeen in Scotland.
Now, if you've never experienced the Scottish Highlands, allow me to paint a picture for you. Lush green pastures carpeted with wildflowers, a symphony of birdsong ringing in the air, the cool scent of heather and the gentle breeze carrying whispers of ancient lore... It is truly a magical place, especially when viewed through the eyes of a young horse.
But 1351 wasn't just about scenic beauty. This year, the world was changing, and those changes affected horses like myself deeply.
The Age of Knights: As I trotted across the moor, I couldn't help but notice the ever-present echoes of the knights and their majestic war steeds. This was the heart of the Hundred Years' War, a brutal conflict between England and France. While the battlefield itself was a grim sight, the knights, with their gleaming armour and shining horses, were a testament to courage and bravery, the essence of the true spirit of a warrior.
From Battle to Bounty: Even in those tumultuous times, the gentle art of husbandry thrived. While warhorses were needed to carry knights into battle, they were also instrumental in farming. Ploughing the fields, hauling carts loaded with goods - we were vital cogs in the intricate machine of agricultural life. And that's where my purpose came in.
Being a sturdy draught mare, my strength was my pride. My role was crucial in supporting the communities. As I pulled a sturdy plough across the fields, preparing the soil for sowing, I felt a profound sense of belonging. My strength and perseverance, those very qualities which made me useful, allowed me to contribute to the prosperity of the farm. The farmer and his family would smile warmly as they witnessed the quality of my work. This made my heart happy, knowing that I was playing my part in a sustainable future.
The Great Horse Fair: Every year, during the spring season, I would get to experience a momentous occasion – the great horse fair at nearby Stirling! It was a flurry of activity, with merchants, farmers, and traders coming together from all corners of the country. The energy was electric as thousands of horses, big and small, filled the market place. You could almost hear a thousand snorts and a chorus of whinnies as we all showcased our individual qualities.
For a horse like myself, the horse fair was an absolute whirlwind. Seeing all the different breeds, experiencing the human world’s interest in our kind – it was a stimulating and enriching experience. The sounds of blacksmiths hammering hooves and the laughter of children around horses made for a wonderfully chaotic symphony of joy.
The Black Death's Shadow: But even with the beautiful world unfolding before my eyes, there was an undercurrent of worry and unease in the air. A strange, devastating disease, a silent thief called the Black Death, swept across the world, claiming the lives of millions, including horses. Its deadly reach spread like wildfire, casting a dark shadow over the land. Many of my friends and companions fell prey to this terrible sickness. I could only watch, helpless, as they grew weak, succumbed, and left this world.
It was during these sombre times that we, the horses, became even more vital. As the human population dwindled, the weight of survival fell upon our strong backs. We were the crucial link, carrying goods, providing transportation, and supporting a weakened society. Our resilience and hard work kept life going, reminding us of the essential roles we played in this fragile balance between nature and humanity.
Looking Ahead: As a young horse in 1351, the world felt both immense and intimate. Life was filled with a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and experiences, from the joys of community gatherings to the haunting shadow of the plague. But through it all, I realised that our kind, the noble horses, are a vital force in this world.
In a sense, nothing truly changes for a horse like me. We remain connected to the land, we strive to support and nurture our human companions. I still walk these hills, witness the seasons unfold, and play my role in the rhythm of life.
So dear readers, remember the horses of 1351 – they represent strength, resilience, and the unwavering bond between animals and humans. We might not speak with words, but our story continues to unfold through our timeless connection to the Earth, reminding us all that we are part of a delicate ecosystem, intricately interwoven.
Until next time, keep your hooves happy and your hearts full of joy!
Emma
P.S: I love hearing from you! Feel free to leave a comment below sharing your own horse stories, memories, or reflections. I'd be delighted to hear your thoughts. Don't forget to visit the www.equiworld.org website to learn more about the incredible world of horses!
