"Neigh-sayers beware! The year 1526 is about to get a whole lot more interesting, especially for a lass like me..."
Well, hello there, dear readers! Emma here, a grey mare with a splash of white in my mane and tail. As the good folk of Hayfield, near Aberdeen, know, I'm a hard-working lass. But, aside from pulling the plough, I like to keep up with the goings-on in the wider equine world, and that’s where you lovely readers come in. I’m just starting out with my very own blog here on EquiWorld.org and, trust me, there’s a lot to talk about!
A Year of Big Changes
- It’s been a bit of a whirlwind, you know? My own life here in Hayfield has been relatively calm. It’s been the usual cycle of working the fields, finding delicious grazing in the meadows, and sharing playful snorts with my stable mates. But out there in the wider world? My, oh my, there’s been quite a lot stirring.
The king here in Scotland, James V, is making a lot of noise these days. Now, I know I'm a mare, and not a politics horse, but they say he's all about strengthening Scotland and he’s working with some powerful lords, who seem to like horses quite a lot, mind you! My hunch is it's all going to lead to some interesting changes for horses in the future. You'd have to be blind to not notice that a lot of focus these days is on strong, sturdy breeds like mine. Perhaps more folks are looking at draft horses like me to help with pulling plows, building structures, and transporting goods. You can say I’m a little pleased about it!
Speaking of the king and his interest in strong horses, it’s funny how times have changed, right? A hundred years or so ago, everyone was gaga for those beautiful Arabian steeds. Fast, nimble, a real showstopper! And sure, we're good old-fashioned workhorses, happy to carry burdens, pull carts, and generally get the job done. But even a trusty steed like me appreciates a bit of admiration every now and then, don't you think? Maybe this change in royal taste means we draft horses will start getting more appreciation, eh? Fingers crossed!
Royal Horses: What Makes a Monarch's Stable
While I haven't personally seen a King, I’ve heard they have amazing stables! Just think, beautiful grooms, endless fresh hay, gleaming tack – sounds rather decadent! Of course, I don’t have anything against all the luxurious trappings. It makes our work as horses seem even more valuable. We get the mud and the toil, and they get the glitter and the glam. But what I truly care about is having good oats, a comfy bed, and a good strong back – oh, and the camaraderie of fellow horses!
My grandmother told me stories of kings from times gone by. Kings like Edward I – a man who rode into battle on a horse named Carnarvon. It seems they were inseparable! It was a warhorse, much braver than a sturdy lass like myself, I'll tell you! She would trot and trot, her nostrils flaring, a fearsome sight!
This got me thinking...how different are royal horses now, compared to the past? You'd think things would be rather modern, no? I’d bet the king has a collection of the best warhorses in all of Scotland. Powerful creatures like the Clyde, strong and steadfast – they must be a sight to behold! And not only warhorses! Think of the chargers, the hunters – just incredible!
And that's not even mentioning the royal carriages, each one a masterpiece on wheels, drawn by some of the most stunning horses imaginable. Imagine being part of that team! The king's horses are a sign of power and might, showcasing his strength and prosperity! Just picture yourself trotting through the city with the king's flag fluttering above you! Now that's an image worth neighing about!
Across the Seas – The Spanish Legacy
Hold your reins, because things get even more exciting! The year 1526 also brought some exciting developments across the sea. Spain – that place famous for its scorching sun and incredible horses – it's becoming a horse-lover's haven! They've always known how to take good care of their steeds, but this year marks a moment of pure horse-y wonder. They are having a huge event - a grand exhibition of all the best horses, showcasing all kinds of breeds. From proud Andalusian steeds to the fiercest of warhorses – all kinds are making their mark on the world. And rumour has it, that's just the beginning! The Spanish seem keen on creating a legacy – they are even creating the world's first Royal Stud, dedicated to breeding and training the most impressive horses you can imagine. The sheer scale of this project boggles even this old mare’s mind! It seems to have everyone across the globe buzzing about horses. What an exciting time to be a horse!
I bet they even have some lovely grey mares in Spain. Not to toot my own horn, but I know there's no better grey than me! ;) And speaking of Spain, what does their choice of royal steeds tell us? It seems like they are keeping true to the legacy of the Spanish breed, valuing strength and elegance all at once. The horses here in Hayfield are mostly known for their strength and endurance, but there’s always something magical about grace and movement!
Looking Ahead: My Horse History Blog
It seems as if horses are making their mark on the world in a big way in 1526! With strong and steadfast draft horses in the fields, noble steeds supporting powerful monarchs, and a global fascination with magnificent breeds, I can only say one thing – things are going to get exciting! This isn’t just a year for history – it’s a year for equine history. And I’m excited to document it all on this new EquiWorld blog of mine.
So, dear readers, keep those tails swishing and the hoofs tapping! It's going to be a busy, vibrant, and definitely neigh-say-able year! I’m looking forward to reading your thoughts and sharing more news as it breaks. And of course, if you ever need advice on how to pull the plough or get those oats to stay put in your feed bucket, feel free to send me a message!
Until next time, stay happy, healthy, and hoof-tastic!
Your friendly neighbourhood grey mare,
Emma
