Hayfield, Scotland, 1498
My hooves tapped against the cobbled streets of Aberdeen, a familiar rhythm that carried me through the bustling market square. I, Emma, am a grey draught horse with a white mane and tail that flows like the finest silk. At twenty years, I’ve seen much and carried even more. Though I may not have the sleek physique of a war horse or the agility of a hunting steed, there’s a quiet strength within my broad shoulders that fuels my heart and drives my will. Today, as I wait patiently for my master, Allan, I find myself reflecting on the year, 1498, and the incredible world of horses that unfolds around us.
As a horse born in the fertile fields of Hayfield, nestled near the foot of the majestic Cairngorms, my life has always been intertwined with the rhythms of the land. It’s the smell of damp earth and wildflowers, the rustle of hay, the gentle sway of the oat field, the feel of sun on my coat and rain on my mane, the warmth of my stable, the echo of my master's voice… These are the things that I hold close to my heart, for these are the whispers of my story, a story that begins long before I arrived in Aberdeen.
The Year of Discovery and Adventure:
It's said that across the sea, the intrepid explorer, Vasco da Gama, achieved a landmark moment in maritime history this very year - sailing all the way to India, opening new routes for trade and exploration. Though a sea journey is far from my experience, the spirit of discovery resonates deeply with my own. Every time I journey to a new field or cross a familiar hill path, I encounter something new - a rustling rabbit, a blossoming field, a fellow traveller.
A Horse's World:
This year, like all years, the world of horses in Scotland vibrates with activity. As a working draught horse, I find myself most often assisting farmers in the fields, hauling carts laden with hay, pulling heavy plows through the earth, and, of course, providing the trusty means for travel. We're a team, my fellow draught horses and I - strong, resilient, and dependable.
My fellow horses here in Aberdeen also play an important role in the city’s daily life. The nimble, sure-footed cobs ferry merchants' wares from one end of the city to the other, their rhythmic hooves echoing through the cobblestone alleys. A sleek, swift hunter named Orion belonging to Lord Aberdon himself serves as the nobleman's companion for the occasional hunt through the hills. These are only some of the faces that shape the bustling world of horses.
A Day in My Life:
My own life is a tapestry of hard work and quiet pleasures. Each morning, the sound of Allan's familiar call rouses me from slumber. I stretch, enjoying the warmth of my hay-filled bed. Allan brushes my coat, his strong fingers moving expertly through my mane. He gives me a few pats and a friendly, “Good morning, Emma, you look lovely today”. And as always, my heart warms at the sound of his kind voice.
Throughout the day, my tasks are many: hauling the mill's massive grindstone, carrying fresh bread from the bakery, and delivering firewood to the market. Sometimes, my tasks lead me to the open plains, where I can truly feel the wind rush through my mane, the sun warm my back, the land beneath my hooves – a feeling of freedom that fills me with joy.
In the evenings, I'm often seen pulling the lord's carriage on journeys through the city. I have a quiet love for the feel of cobblestone under my hooves, the elegant curves of the carriage, and the sound of the coachman’s steady call, a comforting rhythm.
As the stars twinkle overhead, I stand within the comforting confines of my stable, my breathing steady, my eyes gently closing. I reflect on the day's events, each experience woven into the tapestry of my being, creating the story of Emma.
More Than Work:
Even a hardworking draught horse like myself finds moments for pleasure. Sometimes, when Allan’s back is turned, I sneak a nibble of oats reserved for the morning. A swift swish of my tail and a playful whinny make him smile, as if to say, "You got me!" It's these little moments, the shared laughter, the quiet moments of bonding that remind me of the profound connection between human and horse.
Beyond the Stable Walls:
As I settle into the quiet of the evening, my thoughts drift beyond the walls of my stable and onto the stories shared by fellow horses from distant lands. We horses have always played a crucial role in the development of the world – we were, and continue to be, vessels of communication, carrying messages and goods across continents. Our journey as a species is woven deeply into the history of humanity. We are part of their struggles and triumphs, their successes and failures, and within those shared stories, there is strength.
And I, Emma, am a proud member of this strong and resilient species, grateful for every sunrise, every task, every gentle pat, every shared moment of joy, knowing that each day brings new opportunities for growth, for learning, for exploring the wonders of the world. And so I turn my thoughts toward the future, hoping to learn more about our remarkable history. My journey, as it continues, promises new experiences, new connections, and new opportunities to leave my mark on the world. And what better way to explore these marvels than through the hooves of a simple horse like me.
Until next time, fellow horse-lovers! I bid you adieu from the charming, bustling, city of Aberdeen, Scotland.
- Emma, the Hayfield Draught Horse
