From Hayfield, with Love,
Hello, fellow equines! It's Emma here, from the rolling hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen. My coat shines like a pearl under the Scottish sun, and the crisp Highland air keeps my mane and tail so very white, almost shimmering in the sunlight. I am a draught horse, you see, strong and sturdy, built for hauling loads, pulling ploughs, and carrying the burdens of life.
Today, though, I want to take you on a journey back in time - to the year 1538. It's been a while since I dipped my hooves into the past, but a new year, as they say, calls for new beginnings. So let's embark on a trip to a time when the world was a little bit different, yet also strikingly familiar.
1538 was a year of great change, not only for us horses but for the entire world. It was a time of discovery, conquest, and evolving traditions, and the impact it had on our horse world is simply fascinating.
A Bit of a History Lesson
Let me set the stage. It was a time of the Tudors in England, with the charismatic King Henry VIII holding the reins of power. Across the sea, France was dealing with its own king, Francois I. We horses had been long playing our vital roles in both these powerful nations - serving in wars, transporting goods, and tilling the land.
The year began with news spreading through our hooves, travelling across villages and fields - a war was brewing in Europe. It was the infamous Italian War - a complex game of power and alliances that led to battles being fought far from our home in Scotland. Imagine, my fellow equines, we were all deeply affected by the events across the world! The clash of armies meant a great demand for horses, not only to ride, but to haul supplies and weaponry. This made our lives, especially those of us with strong build and unwavering temperament, crucial.
While the war was going on, the Great Scottish Horse - a powerful breed famed for their strength and endurance, similar to my brethren - were gaining notoriety. They were proving themselves more than capable of handling the rigors of war, which gave them the respect they deserved. This was a proud moment for us, all of us in the Scottish highlands, who always felt a special kinship with the Great Scottish Horse breed.
Horses Beyond The Battlefields
But even beyond the battlefield, life went on, full of activity. The fields of Hayfield were being cultivated by strong horses like me, hauling heavy plows to till the soil for spring's upcoming harvests. Our strong legs provided the foundation of our world. Our strength wasn't only used in the field but to power the millstones that made flour for bread and to transport crops from fields to market towns. Our daily routines were filled with the rhythmic sounds of clinking harness, the feel of the strong reins in a man's hand, and the smell of earth, the smell of life itself.
The most exciting event in our world, the Great Northern Horse Fair was held that year, bringing together people from miles around, all with a passion for horses. A cacophony of neighs filled the air, mingled with the shouts of merchants and the laughter of children.
It was a sight to behold - horses of all shapes and sizes, from proud steeds, elegant, graceful creatures used for riding, to the sturdy Clydesdale horses similar to me, perfect for work and draft. Farmers would haggle for prices, and new masters would meet their companions, their horses. We would have never imagined then that such a large event would eventually become known as "The World's Biggest Horse Show" ! It's heartwarming to think of it now!
What Did We Eat in 1538?
Speaking of things heartwarming, I have to mention food! I was fortunate in 1538 - Hayfield's farmers took good care of us, feeding us hearty oats, fresh hay, and a handful of barley in the evenings, when the work was done and the sky glowed pink, reflecting on our grey coats. We were fed well and cared for, which meant we worked tirelessly for our humans. The good things in life go hand in hand, you see!
Beyond Our Highland Home
Back then, in 1538, we still did not know about all the incredible things the world held. Just imagine, a few years later, the legendary Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, would circumnavigate the globe on horseback! Our equine ancestors travelled the world, crossing vast oceans, scaling mountains, and taming wildernesses, making history as they galloped!
This was a pivotal year in history, with events taking place all around the globe - exploration, innovation, and, unfortunately, conflict. Yet, we horses, with our unwavering strength and spirit, remained at the heart of these changes, shaping our world with every stride, with every pull of our powerful muscles, and with every beat of our loyal hearts.
Remember, my equine friends, whether we're pulling plows or charging across battlefields, we are woven into the fabric of history.
This year, I encourage you to spend some time looking back into the past. Look into your family histories - learn from the legacy of your ancestors. And tell your tales. I know my family members had much to teach me - their resilience and their enduring spirit, their courage and compassion. The journey we all took, is one that shapes who we are, even today.
Until next time,
Emma
Hayfield, Scotland
Equiworld.org
