By Emma, Grey Draught Mare
From Hayfield, near Aberdeen
My dearest readers,
It's Emma here, your humble grey mare with a penchant for long naps and even longer adventures! Today, I thought I'd delve into a little history, bringing you the horse world of the year 1364. A time of change and evolution, much like ourselves!
Let's take a gentle amble back in time. This year, my dear Scotland was experiencing some pretty momentous occasions, affecting not just us horses, but the lives of humans too!
Now, as you know, I'm a hearty, dependable draught horse, and these days, a life of hauling carts and tilling fields keeps me content. 1364, however, was a year of upheaval!
Firstly, the good king, David II of Scotland, had been fighting a long and gruelling war with the English. Thankfully, they finally came to an agreement, and King David returned to the throne in this year! This, of course, affected the horses used for warfare, those majestic steeds who carried valiant knights into battle. Sadly, the conflict resulted in many a horse losing its life, a painful reminder of the destructive power of man.
Horses and Warfare:
The wars may have ended, but there was still a lot of political tension between England and Scotland, with the English still holding control of the most fertile land in the Lowlands. For a horse like me, the war brought about a significant increase in my duties. I was part of a team hauling provisions for soldiers, often across treacherous landscapes, facing icy winds and pouring rain. Thankfully, the war's end has brought about a respite, and I'm feeling the positive effects – more oats, more rest!
However, there were also changes for my brethren serving the army. We weren't just the brute force of war anymore. That year, the importance of agility, stamina, and quick movement for horses on the battlefield became more apparent. My ancestors had to adapt their fighting style – charging directly at the enemy became a thing of the past, giving way to the use of lighter horses who could weave in and out of combat.
It was interesting watching the changing landscape of cavalry during this period. While my large draught frame was needed for hauling heavy burdens, I saw smaller, nimble war horses – steeds bred for speed and agility – come into their own. This change, much like the shift from leather armour to plate armour, represented a significant leap in military tactics.
Beyond Battle: The Horse as a Companion and Worker:
The year 1364 was not only about war and strife. People recognised the inherent value of horses in many different aspects of life. You see, my species has always been more than just workhorses, we are, in many ways, their faithful companions.
Take my neighbour, young Elspeth, who owned a chestnut mare named Ginger. They rode together, Elspeth perched upon Ginger's broad back, galloping across the rolling Scottish countryside. She tells me Ginger even brings her to market every week, a magnificent pair, navigating through the bustling crowds with a surefooted grace. Ginger is an integral part of Elspeth’s life, a faithful friend and a vital source of transport and income.
And let's not forget the horse's critical role in farming and transportation. Farmers relied on their strong backs to plough the fields, harvest crops, and transport goods to markets. I myself, am proud to serve as a reliable workhorse in this area. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of a long, tiring day of labour, followed by a warm stable and a generous portion of oats!
The people were also beginning to recognise the inherent beauty in us horses. That year, a tournament was held in nearby Stirling, where horses were the stars of the show. I was a little too cumbersome to be deemed fit for this grand spectacle, but it was thrilling to see the beautiful, spirited steeds perform for their admirers, prancing and leaping in elaborate shows of strength and elegance. This event, even though a distance away, reinforced my own desire for beauty and a life beyond mere toil.
Changes in Breeding and Care:
1364 also saw changes in how we horses were bred and cared for. As horses continued to play crucial roles in every aspect of human life, there was an increased need for their health and well-being. Veterinarians were emerging as respected figures, with specialized knowledge about horse care and treatments. Although still not commonplace, there was a burgeoning understanding of our needs – feeding, shelter, and care, which greatly benefited the horses in my region.
There was a shift away from random breeding and a move towards more planned and controlled breeding programs. With knowledge of our specific strengths and characteristics, breeders began to cultivate better lines for work, warfare, and transportation. This practice aimed at generating healthier, stronger, and more capable horses for the needs of the time. This shift, much like the change from basic farm horses to the majestic steeds of nobility, was a powerful reminder of our constant evolution, driven by human desire.
Conclusion: Looking Forward:
1364 was a year filled with changes, both on the grand scale of national events and the small but crucial details of my own existence as a horse. My experiences have shown me that history unfolds like a galloping steed – a constant and sometimes rapid movement, impacting the lives of all those who share its journey.
In the annals of time, we horses remain the unsung heroes, often the backbone of society, be it on the battlefield, in the fields, or carrying precious goods and people across vast landscapes.
As I nibble my hay and close my eyes to rest, I ponder the future of our species. What changes lie in store? Will we continue to be valued partners in human progress? These questions linger in my thoughts, as I close out my blog for today.
Until next time, dearest readers, may your journeys be peaceful, your hay abundant, and your oats plentiful!
Yours in mane and tail, Emma, Grey Draught Mare Hayfield, Scotland
