A View From The Fields
Hello everyone, and welcome to another entry in my little horse-history blog! I’m Emma, a 20 year old grey mare with a flowing white mane and tail, and this week I thought we'd delve into the fascinating world of horses in 1533. Now, let me tell you, life was a bit different back then! No sleek SUVs or flashy trailers. For us, the world was our stable, the fields our playgrounds, and the farm our life.
Born in the lush pastures of Hayfield, near the beautiful city of Aberdeen in Scotland, 1533 feels like a lifetime ago! The crisp morning air always carried the aroma of wildflowers and heather, the sound of the sheepdog's whistle a familiar lullaby. Those were simpler times, full of routines and the natural order of things, but it didn't make life any less exciting!
Let's start by getting a handle on what horses were used for back then. My role as a draught horse meant that I was an essential part of the farming community, and I wouldn't have it any other way! We helped with the ploughing, hauling wagons loaded with crops and timber, and even dragging the heavy millstones to grind the grain for bread. We were like the strong, reliable hands that kept everyone fed. I was a member of a team of strong lads, and we would all pull together, sometimes five or six of us, in perfect unison.
My memories from that time are vivid. I remember the gentle, firm commands of the farmer, the reassuring feel of the sturdy leather harness against my shoulders, and the satisfying rumble of the wooden wheels on cobblestone streets as we transported goods to the bustling market in Aberdeen. It was a proud moment, you know, feeling the weight of the wagon, and knowing that we were the power behind those goods reaching people's tables.
Now, back in 1533, the world was on the brink of change. Henry VIII, the king of England, was at the helm. There were tensions brewing in Europe and further afield. These tensions didn't necessarily affect my daily routine – we were quite sheltered in our little farming community.
We weren’t oblivious to what was going on in the wider world though. Stories trickled in about the battles taking place and the threat of war. It was exciting for us horses to imagine those grand displays of military might. And let me tell you, the knights with their proud warhorses were the true heroes!
Their heavy armour made them appear as invincible knights! They were the true aristocrats among horses, those powerful warhorses that commanded respect on the battlefield. Some breeds, like the mighty Shire horse, could even be used in both farming and battle. They were magnificent animals, a truly versatile and essential part of every day life.
We didn't have much time for frivolity. The responsibility of feeding a nation meant long days working in the fields, hauling carts, and even hauling the family to church on Sundays! I recall one incident particularly well – when my cousin Agnes, a spirited mare from the neighbouring village, decided to try and outrun the local huntsmen during a fox hunt. You see, there was this trend called fox hunting which used a pack of hounds and hunters on horseback to pursue a fox through the countryside.
We draught horses were used to transport the huntsmen and their dogs but Agnes, a playful sort, took off at the sound of the horns and joined the hunt, trying to chase down the hounds herself! Of course, she had no real chance to outrun the fox – much less the hounds or the mounted hunters - but it made for a spectacular spectacle and was much whispered about in the village afterwards. Agnes never got into any trouble, though, her mischievous spirit and jovial personality always saved her!
One of the joys in my life during this time was the camaraderie amongst us horses. We grazed together, shared stories (in our own equine language), and had those special horse-to-horse bonds that only we can truly understand. We weren't just animals, we were a family!
Even though the daily routine could be repetitive, every day brought new experiences and challenges. We helped transport fresh-picked fruit and vegetables to local markets and saw firsthand the importance of what we did. There was a feeling of unity and community, everyone working towards a common goal. And when the seasons changed, and the countryside turned from verdant green to autumnal colours, we all celebrated the bountiful harvests.
Our work was crucial to ensuring food security for the country. Every horse in every farm across Scotland felt proud of the role we played, making sure everyone was fed and clothed, and, most importantly, kept warm in the winter.
The world in 1533 was indeed different. There weren’t horse shelters for cold nights or veterinarians available on demand. Life for us back then wasn’t always comfortable, but we had strong bonds within our community, and the constant knowledge that we played a vital part in people's lives. As the days grew longer and the nights colder, it filled us with a sense of purpose and satisfaction.
It wasn't always easy. Some days were long and demanding, others challenging with inclement weather. Yet, the simple life we lived brought its own joys - a quiet afternoon by the river, the soft caress of a friendly farmer's hand, and the warmth of camaraderie among the herd.
Now, I must leave you for today. My young colts are eager to play, and it's time to watch over them for the afternoon. But before I sign off, I encourage you all to explore the history of horses, even those far-off years like 1533!
Until next time, keep your hooves up and your spirits high, and never forget the impact horses have had on our world! And do be sure to visit Equiworld.org to find out more!
Your faithful blogger,
Emma
