Written by Emma
Hello everyone! It’s Emma here, a grey draught mare with a flowing white mane and tail, and I’m thrilled to be sharing my insights on horse life in the year 1640!
I'm from a little place called Hayfield, nestled in the hills near Aberdeen in Scotland. It's a beautiful part of the world, with lush green pastures and rolling hills, perfect for a strong, sturdy girl like me.
My days are full of hard work and plenty of food. We draught horses are crucial to everyday life. You see, 1640 was a year of significant change for everyone, even us horses! There’s this thing called the "Great Rebellion", with rumblings of change throughout the land, and the King and Parliament seem to be at loggerheads. You could almost feel the tension in the air.
It feels like things are changing faster than the leaves turn colour in Autumn. For example, back in 1639, we weren't allowed to be exported to other countries. This caused quite a stir. Can you imagine, stuck in Scotland, no matter how beautiful it is? The folks down south said they needed us for their farm work, so eventually, things settled down and we’re allowed to travel across the border again. But I haven’t heard anyone complain about that!
I am so proud to contribute to my community! I work hard, pulling ploughs in the fields, hauling supplies for the local mill, and helping my neighbours to gather wood. It makes me feel part of something larger, something that helps my fellow humans to thrive.
What else is new in the world of horses in 1640?
- New Breeds of Horses: There's a buzz about a new horse, called the "Yorkshire Coach Horse." Apparently, they are bred for speed and strength, ideal for pulling carriages, making the journey even faster. These days, everyone’s eager to travel, so they’re much in demand.
- Horses are vital to transport and communication: A good horse is like a passport to adventure, especially for important messengers. We travel from village to village, sharing news, carrying supplies, and bringing the world to everyone’s doorstep. This new type of horse, the Yorkshire Coach Horse, means people can go further, explore new lands, and meet new people!
Horse Training:
While the methods might seem a bit rough by today's standards, the focus remains the same. You need a well-trained horse who's strong, dependable, and intelligent. I see a lot of young horses, their eyes bright with anticipation as they learn the ropes, getting used to harnesses and carrying weight, and learning to trust and understand their handlers.The Joy of a Gentle Ride: But horses are not just for work, and sometimes, the gentle rocking of a ride brings peace and joy. People say a slow, quiet ride helps them think and reflect, which is wonderful! You know, we horses don't just help humans do things. Sometimes, we help them feel, and that feels very special to me.
Emma's Tips for Young Horses in 1640
- Eat Your Oats: Horses are like big engines, always moving and needing to refuel!
- Make a Friend: A friend to graze with, to learn from, to share adventures with… you will enjoy the companionship.
- Take Pride in Your Work: There's honour in hard work and dedication, whether you are pulling a plough or carrying a rider.
- Be Brave! A brave horse has a gentle spirit and the confidence to learn new things and conquer the world.
- Listen to your Owner: They may seem strict at times, but they want the best for you, so respect their knowledge and their expertise.
It’s an exciting time to be a horse. We have much to learn and so much to give! It’s my belief that horses and people, we are all part of the grand tapestry of life. Let's learn from each other, support one another, and enjoy this journey we're all on together.
Thank you for joining me on this journey into 1640! I'd love to hear your thoughts, your experiences, and anything you'd like to know. Keep on neighing, and remember - we horses have so much to give!
