Hello fellow equine enthusiasts! Emma here, a grey draught horse with a mane and tail like spun moonlight, writing to you from my lovely stable in Hayfield, near Aberdeen. I'm 20 years old, and in this year, 1626, the world feels full of promise. Though we horses aren't quite aware of the larger machinations of politics, war and society, we definitely sense the pulse of life. Life feels quite good right now, wouldn't you say? Let's dive into the wonderful world of horses in this very year, 1626.
Hayfield, My Home
I was born right here in Hayfield, surrounded by the smell of damp grass and the sweet aroma of heather. It's a quiet place, mostly, with a gentle breeze blowing through the highlands and the sound of sheep baa-ing in the distance. We're close to the River Dee, its water so clear you can almost see your reflection, and the rolling hills are covered in green and gold depending on the time of year.
Here in Hayfield, we draught horses have a strong purpose. Our days are filled with hard work, yes, but there's a beauty to it. I feel the strong muscles in my back as I pull the plough, feel the rhythm of my hooves pounding on the dirt track, the wind whistling through my mane as we carry heavy burdens. We’re the backbone of the farm, the gentle giants that bring the land to life.
I belong to a large farm, where several other draught horses like me help tend to the land. There's Maggie, a sturdy chestnut mare, always a bit grumpy in the mornings. And the old fella, Samson, a huge black horse who knows the secrets of the land better than any of us. Then there's young Finn, a colt barely old enough to work but already eager to learn. We're a close-knit team, working together, supporting each other, a testament to the bond between humans and horses.
A Glimpse Into the Wider World
Now, even though my life revolves around Hayfield, I do catch glimpses of what happens outside this quiet corner of Scotland. News travels, even in these days of horses, and sometimes whispers of grand events, battles, or ceremonies make their way up to our little farm.
I’ve heard whispers of a king, Charles the First, and how his love for horses has brought some prosperity to our breed. They say his stables are filled with majestic creatures, many even coming from foreign lands. This reminds me that even the most magnificent of animals can be brought together in a single place. Imagine the wonder of seeing such a collection!
Speaking of wonder, just a few months ago, some travelling musicians came to our farm, a merry bunch who seemed to find magic in everything, even our muddy hooves! Their horses were a beautiful sight. Sleek, powerful animals, a stark contrast to our sturdy working horses, and their saddles and bridles were richly ornamented, unlike ours.
It’s clear the world is a bigger, brighter place than just my humble Hayfield. And sometimes I long for a glimpse of it all, even if just to see other horses from other lands.
Riding High in Fashion
Speaking of other lands, another fascinating news bit made it to our stables. Seems that there's a new trend among the women, especially in London. They're riding, riding! Not in a rough farm-style way, but with grace, poise, and fancy riding habits. They even wear these funny little hats, some say, even hats shaped like horses’ heads! Imagine the world viewed from the saddle. It makes my spirit soar to think about such liberty and fashion.
Of course, I'm a farm horse and my days are far removed from high fashion. But even my gruff farmer knows that horses have their place in both grand occasions and everyday life. My friend Maggie's daughter, Lily, is a spirited creature who dreams of becoming a saddle horse, a true vision in elegance and power, rather than the steadfast workers like us.
Training for a Purpose
In this year, 1626, horses aren't just about transportation or hauling. They're about camaraderie, family, and yes, even competition. Just last month, the town of Aberdeen had a riding competition. Though I couldn't join, I've heard stories about horses jumping over hurdles, racing down the track, showing off their prowess and agility. This shows that, even among workhorses, there's always room for a little showmanship, for a playful display of strength and spirit.
Our farm has its own version of a 'competition' called the 'Horse and Plough' Contest, held each autumn. It's all about seeing whose team can plough a furrow the straightest, fastest, and deepest. While it's all in good fun, it highlights our strength and the vital role we play in agriculture.
The Spirit of a Horse
What I love most about being a horse, whether working or showing off, is the feeling of freedom, of running, of being connected to the world around me. Whether it’s pulling a heavy cart or feeling the wind whipping through my mane, there's something primal, something deeply satisfying, about being a horse.
We may not talk with human words, but we have our language. The way we lift our heads to listen, the twitch of our ears, the swish of our tails, and the soft neigh that carries our thoughts. We share our lives, our struggles and our joys, with humans who have become almost as essential to our lives as the land itself.
From Hayfield with Love
This has been another update from my corner of the world, where the land stretches far, the sky is full of stars, and the horses roam freely. Remember, even if you haven't felt the cool breeze in your mane, the thrill of a wild gallop, the strength of carrying a load, you can still feel the spirit of a horse through the connection we all share with these majestic creatures.
Until next time, happy riding, and may the land always be fertile for you.
Your friend, Emma, a Hayfield draught horse.
