Hello fellow equines,
It’s Emma here, writing to you from my lovely stables in Hayfield, just outside Aberdeen. The air is crisp and the heather is blooming a gorgeous purple - a beautiful sight to see. Today, I want to share with you my thoughts on what 1630 looked like for horses like myself - what we were used for, and what life was like for our equine friends across the world.
You see, it’s not just about grazing in fields and napping under the sun (although I confess I’m quite good at that). Being a draught horse in 1630 means being part of a crucial system that keeps the wheels of the world turning. As my ancestors have done for centuries before me, my breed - the sturdy grey horse with a white mane and tail like myself - is vital for ploughing fields, hauling heavy wagons, and working in the mines.
My life, for example, revolves around the farm. I'm often tasked with hauling the heavy plough across the fields, preparing the earth for new crops. The ground here in Scotland can be quite challenging, but I’m used to the work, strong and sure-footed as I am. Sometimes I’ll pull a cart filled with hay to feed the farm animals, or be used to take our farm produce to market. This year, they’ve been using my strong frame to haul logs from the forest – that is quite heavy work, but I am rewarded with oats and hay – I get enough to fill my belly. And let me tell you, a good full belly after a hard day’s work is pure bliss.
I’m often tethered next to my friend Agnes, a black mare with a flowing chestnut mane. We share stories about our work, sometimes a bit of gossip about the farm, but mostly about the newest horses born on the farm. She always tells me, “Your white mane and tail look stunning in the sun, Emma.” It’s always nice to have someone compliment you, even if Agnes doesn’t mind bragging about the long black tresses of her own mane!
Horse Power Across the World
Being a draught horse, I don't travel much. My work is local, on the farm and in the immediate area. But every year, during the winter, the story is spread from one stable to the next. Horses from all over the world work tirelessly, each doing their part in the intricate dance of human civilisation.
Let’s head over to England, for example. Over there, gentle steeds carry nobles to the bustling city of London, where Parliament is busy making laws that govern the land. The sound of hooves echoing on cobblestones fills the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic creak of wagons being hauled to market, horses straining under the weight of their loads. Their strength ensures the supply of food, goods, and people throughout the land.
Over the seas in France, sturdy draft horses are pulling heavy wagons that transport materials used to construct grand chateaux and beautiful churches. In the heart of Europe, horses are critical to the movement of troops in times of conflict, as they can carry supplies, weapons, and men at speeds unimaginable to humans alone.
Here in Scotland, things are changing. Our brave Scottish cavalry horses are being replaced by the English. My master said, "They're better suited for war" - which does make me a bit nervous.
From Military Might to Gentle Companions
In other parts of the world, horses have a softer touch. In Spain, they’re used to gather herds of wild cattle - "ranches" as they call them there – a beautiful sight to see. The cowboys on their strong, sure-footed steeds expertly guide their charges, proving their horsemanship and skill.
Here in the bustling marketplace, I’ve even seen smaller horses with elaborate saddles, pulling decorated carts with children dressed up in costumes, their laughter mingling with the sounds of bartering and the chatter of merchants.
The Power of the Horse
Even in places like India and Persia, where elephants and camels have a prominent place, the horses play an essential role. They’re used for swift travel, racing, and in wars – powerful steeds used to carry knights on horseback, armed for battle. I read recently, that even in China, these four-legged beasts are treasured for their ability to move people and goods, carrying traders across the land, Their strength is admired, their power respected.
I can say, even for us draft horses, the year 1630 has seen a noticeable rise in the usage of horses for racing and showing. Many say this is because humans find themselves needing more “luxury” and less “power” with these special bred horses, designed for speed, strength, and agility.
We're living through an exciting time for horses! But amidst all this progress, we can't forget the simple beauty of being a horse, whether we are hauling heavy loads, dashing across fields, or grazing under the shade of a majestic oak.
Every day, I remind myself that horses have played a critical role in the world for centuries, helping humans build, explore, and prosper. Our strength is vital, our loyalty steadfast, and our connection with humans profound. I’m glad to be a part of it.
I will leave you with a little thought for you all - even the most beautiful steeds like myself still appreciate a good scratch behind the ears. I wonder what changes await us, but one thing is certain - the spirit of the horse is powerful and resilient. I’ll leave you with a fun fact that one of the horses I heard of over in London is even being trained to paint! Now that is some real talent, wouldn't you say?
Stay safe and happy, my friends,
Emma
