Hello, my dear fellow equines and horse-loving humans! It’s Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen. As a seasoned 20-year-old, I’ve seen a lot in my days, from bustling market days in the town square to the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands. But the year 1388 holds a special place in my memory. Today, I'll be sharing a bit of what made it a remarkable year for horses and those who loved us, all from my unique perspective, of course!
A Year of Change - On the Horizon and in the Field
The wind, whistling through the barley fields, often carried whispers of the turmoil to the south, the whispers of King Richard’s battles. I, being a horse of leisure – mostly, mind you – in my beautiful, tranquil valley, felt less of the direct impact of the conflicts. Yet, it still echoed, this unrest. It made for restless nights and anxious mornings for my fellow draught horses, some of whom were recruited for service in the king's wars. It was a reminder that our life, as peaceful as it may seem, was always at the mercy of the winds of change, just like the barley swaying in the breeze.
However, change was afoot even in Hayfield, too. New ideas were being exchanged, especially about how we, horses, could contribute better to everyday life. I can't help but feel a sense of pride, knowing how crucial we are to this world. We carried the weight of the nation, literally, through our tireless work. I’m talking, of course, about those glorious war horses who bravely charged into battle, the nimble hunters who helped chase down food, and us, the steadfast workhorses who hauled the ploughs and transported goods. We were, in every sense, the backbone of society.
The New Order – More than Just A Fancy Sash
1388 saw a fascinating new twist: The "Order of the Garter", the highest order of chivalry in England, emerged as a strong symbol of knighthood. It was, in a way, an acknowledgement of the knight’s vital dependence on his steed. While they had always appreciated the strength and grace of horses, the symbolic 'garter' further underscored the deep bond between knight and horse.
It was no longer enough for a knight to merely possess a fine mount, no matter its strength or breed. Now, it was more than just a ride; it was a symbol of their valour and chivalry. The knight needed to show reverence, love, and compassion for his horse. We felt it. There was a change in the way we were treated. It seemed that even in these turbulent times, the people began to truly understand and appreciate our unwavering dedication.
Across the Water: The King’s Horses
Although Hayfield lay on the north of the border, news of King Richard’s affairs travelled quickly through the winds. We heard whispers of his grand, dazzling tournaments and his vast stable of horses, prized and meticulously cared for. I can only imagine the excitement and prestige those horses must have felt, as they paraded with their regal riders, draped in fine fabrics. Perhaps I would be sent to fight one day? The thought made my pulse quicken. However, a part of me, a much larger and more prominent part, enjoyed my quiet life, hauling my fair share of the burden.
Horse Market Highlights
I was fortunate to have lived through the golden age of the horse markets! There were times when horses from across the kingdom, including fine steeds like me, would gather in the town square for what were called “horse fairs.” The bustle and the smell of the crowds and the anticipation hanging thick in the air always excited me! We would display our best manners and gaits, hoping to catch the eye of a shrewd trader. These were the days, I think, that gave me a glimpse of the beauty and chaos of the world beyond our tranquil valley.
My Story - A Hayfield Grey’s Life
Life as a working horse was hardly luxurious. It demanded patience, strength, and a spirit that refused to be broken, no matter how hard the load. The farm, where I resided with my companions, was full of love, albeit rough and ready. We had a dedicated team, farmers who understood and treated us with a genuine sense of respect. They, like us, understood the simple truth – our hard work ensured everyone ate. It was this shared understanding that made our daily tasks seem less like chores and more like a collaboration.
In the twilight hours, under a blanket of Scottish stars, when the daily hustle was done, I found peace in the quiet symphony of our hooves crunching on the grassy pathways, as we made our way back to our stalls. My days might have been filled with work, but my heart remained light, full of the satisfaction of knowing I contributed something valuable to the lives of others. It is a feeling that stays with me to this day.
Looking Ahead
This year has been a mixed bag of challenges and progress for all equines. I think we are making headway in how we are seen and valued in society, and, of course, in my heart, I always hope for peace. In this age of change, we face a crossroads, as we all navigate the ever-shifting tides. It's a truth we, horses, have learned to embrace: We stand ready to face any storm, any challenge, and work tirelessly to contribute our strength, grace, and heart to this beautiful, complex world we share.
Till next time, my dear equine friends and fellow horse lovers! I wish you happy travels, plenty of fresh hay, and the good fortune to have a heart that gallops!
