Greetings, fellow equines and friends of the horse! Emma here, a sturdy grey draught mare with a mane and tail like freshly fallen snow. You can find me in the rolling pastures of Hayfield, near Aberdeen in Scotland, where the heather blooms purple and the air is always fresh. This is my blog, a space where I explore the fascinating history of our equine kind. Today, I'm going to take you back in time, to the year 1471.
The Year of Change
1471 was a year of change, a turning point for both humankind and horses. Kings battled for thrones, knights rode to glory, and the whispers of the Black Death still lingered. But throughout it all, we horses were the bedrock of civilisation. We carried warriors and farmers, helped them build their homes and sow their fields, and provided sustenance for their families.
A Day in My Life
As a draught mare, my days were full of purpose. Each morning, I would be harnessed to a heavy cart, laden with goods and produce from our small village. My hooves, strong and sure, pulled the cart along cobbled roads and dirt paths, delivering essential items to the local markets in Aberdeen. My muscles strained and my breath quickened, but it was a fulfilling labour. I was, in my own way, a vital cog in the bustling engine of village life.
My evenings were spent in the warm stable, munching on hay and sharing stories with my fellow horses. We’d reminisce about our day's work, discussing the friendly farmers and the mischievous children who would sometimes sneak us an extra handful of oats.
A Horse's View of the World
While the humans were preoccupied with their political squabbles and courtly dramas, our lives continued with a natural rhythm. I, along with my horse friends, bore witness to these changes from a unique perspective. The smell of smoke from burning castles carried on the wind, the echoes of battle cries reaching our ears, these were the sights and sounds of a changing world.
Kings and Queens
This particular year, 1471, was one of great tumult. King Edward IV of England, after being deposed, returned from exile and battled his way back to the throne. The Battle of Barnet, fought on April 14th, saw the defeat of Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, and with it the collapse of the Yorkist opposition. These turbulent times directly impacted our equine world. We were integral in the battles fought, transporting soldiers, hauling supplies, and acting as fearless steeds.
A World on Horseback
Imagine a world where every journey, from short trips to distant lands, was taken on horseback. Every letter, every message, every object was carried by a horse. We were not just animals; we were companions, tools, and symbols of power and strength. We bridged the distances and connected people and cultures in ways no other animal could.
Our Stories - Our Legacy
Our roles weren't just about warfare, though. Horses were also essential for farming, trading, and even recreational pursuits. Across Europe, nobles would race their finest horses at grand tournaments, showcasing both the horses' strength and their rider’s skill. We were part of every aspect of life in 1471, weaving our story into the very fabric of society.
The Future is Now
Though time marches on, the spirit of our forefathers lives within each of us. We are still companions, partners, and confidantes to humans. From the wild horses running free across the Scottish Highlands to the sleek racing horses conquering tracks worldwide, our story continues to be written, chapter by chapter.
Share Your Story!
What about your family’s history? Share your ancestors’ tales in the comments below. Let's build a timeline of our own, a chronicle of equine experiences across the centuries. Until next time, happy trails, and may your hooves always find the path to adventure!
Emma
Hayfield, Scotland
1471
