Post #1687: A Hayfield Mare’s Perspective
Hello, dear fellow equines! It's Emma here, your trusty blogger from Hayfield, nestled in the rolling hills near Aberdeen. The chill of a Scottish autumn is finally starting to ease, and the promise of crisp winter air fills my nostrils with the scent of hay and anticipation. As a young grey mare with a mane and tail like spun snow, this time of year always brings a touch of melancholic beauty. But don’t be fooled by my gentle nature; I’m eager to share a little history of what life is like for a horse in 1687, and let me tell you, there's always something new under the sun.
Now, I wouldn’t be a true blogger if I didn’t begin with some personal musings. It feels like just yesterday I was a wild foal, romping through the moorland with the other youngsters, learning the ways of the world. But those days are gone. Now, I pull a cart for a young family who recently moved to Hayfield. The farmer, a kindly man with hands calloused by the earth, calls me “Emma,” a name I think fits my quiet strength.
The World of the Horse in 1687: Work and Play
I’ve found that this year in history is marked by a constant hum of activity in the world of horses. In these parts, our lives are built around hard work, but there’s also a sense of joy intertwined with the daily grind. The farmer and his wife cherish our contribution; they provide a warm stable and plenty of fresh hay for winter, along with delicious oats, a little barley, and a good handful of sugar now and again – just to keep a good mare like me happy!
Our main work is pulling the farm cart, carrying loads of produce to market, as well as ferrying supplies for the blacksmith, the butcher, and even the local inn. Our sturdy legs and strong backs are vital to the functioning of the village. It’s not just me, of course. We work together – a team of sturdy farm horses, pulling in unison with gentle nudges and soft whinnies.
Royal Events: A King and his Horse
Life is much different in the royal courts. It’s rumoured King James II has a fancy for a particular Arabian stallion gifted by a Turkish diplomat. Now, that’s a real prince among horses! But then, everything is done on a grand scale for royalty. They've built stables with plush bedding, groom their horses with scented oils, and feed them the finest oats from across the globe. Of course, a royal horse leads a pampered life, attending ceremonies and parades, drawing carriages with exquisite elegance. Yet, they still perform a vital role, carrying riders, hauling goods, and upholding a symbol of power and prestige.
Racing Fever: A Gallop into the Future
Oh, and then there’s the exciting news about horse racing! A certain Lord Derby – I've heard of him in passing, he owns a fabulous manor somewhere near Chester – he’s a big fan of horses. Seems like he wants to create a grand sporting event at Newmarket, where the fastest, strongest thoroughbreds will race for glory and riches! I’ve heard tell of gentlemen gathering, bets being placed, and the thrill of watching horses compete at their very best. They call it the "Newmarket Races" - maybe I’ll even hear a rumour of these races here in Hayfield, eventually!
But It’s Not All Racing and Royals: Everyday Horses and Everyday Tasks
As much as the fancy folk of Newmarket enjoy their thrills, here in the country, our days are mostly practical. It's the simpler pleasures of life, a life of gentle work, the camaraderie of the stable, and the beauty of rolling hills, the crisp air on a winter morning, and the satisfying munching on a mouthful of freshly cut hay.
And let’s not forget the children! We’re used to young ones trotting alongside us on our errands. I’ve taught them how to saddle and bridle me, to curry my coat, and to speak softly in soothing tones. They’ve even mastered the art of weaving their fingers through my mane, creating a bond that makes my heart happy. It’s these quiet moments, these simple joys that truly make my days meaningful.
The Horses of History: Never Forgotten
Whether it's hauling loads for farmers, carrying riders on long journeys, or competing for glory on the racetrack, horses have always held a special place in our world. They have powered civilizations, enriched our lives with their strength, beauty, and spirit. I’m just a humble grey mare, a small piece in the vast tapestry of history. But it's my hope, that in these daily stories of farm life, you too can glean a glimpse of the wonder and resilience of our horse kind. And maybe, you too, will begin to appreciate the unyielding spirit of a draught horse from a village called Hayfield.
*Stay tuned, dear readers, and until next time, remember that the journey of the horse is a continuous and ever-changing story. There's a lot to look forward to! Your loyal blogger, Emma. *
P.S. Be sure to let me know your thoughts on my blog! I’d love to hear from other horses and humans around the globe! You can find me on EquiWorld, on Twitter @EmmaHayfieldHorse, or email me at
