Hello there, fellow equines! Emma here, a grey draught mare from the beautiful Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. I’m feeling rather poetic today, as the crisp autumn air whips through my mane and tail. This year, 1706, has been an exciting one for the equine world, and I’d like to share some of my musings on all that has happened.
As a mare of twenty summers, I’ve seen my share of changes in the years I've been pulling the plough, carting goods for my human companions, and enjoying the warmth of a good stable. Yet, even with all my experience, the pace of life seems to be picking up!
First off, let me tell you about the big news from the south. The “Battle of Ramillies”, a clash between armies as powerful as any thunderclap I’ve heard, took place just last year! The story travels through the air as swiftly as the swallows in spring. Apparently, these human warriors fought with fire and steel and caused chaos on a scale I can hardly imagine. However, thankfully, I haven’t felt its effects here in Hayfield, apart from the flurry of discussions and the slight increase in grain prices, which are never welcomed in a horse’s world!
Thankfully, these large conflicts seem far from my peaceful corner of the world. Hayfield remains as tranquil and beautiful as ever. Our gentle hillsides, lush green pastures, and clear streams are a source of great comfort to us horses. My favourite time of the year is just starting. The harvest is in, the fields are clear, and we are free to graze for as long as our bellies can hold. We mares are often found snoozing under the autumnal sun, our gentle breaths mingling with the soft sighing of the wind through the trees. The nights are crisp, and our sturdy coats keep us warm, making these quiet moments especially delightful.
But let’s not dwell on my quiet pleasures just yet! It wouldn’t be a proper horse’s blog post without sharing some interesting developments within our equine world, wouldn’t it? Let’s begin with the new carriage craze that has been sweeping through Europe. The term "Charabanc" has reached my ears from afar. Imagine a wagon-like vehicle that can accommodate not only several humans but even their luggage, and is pulled by a strong horse like myself! How thrilling, is it not? I wouldn’t mind testing one of those myself!
Speaking of travel, another intriguing bit of news comes from across the Atlantic. The humans have just shipped a group of our kind across the sea. You’ll never guess where – the Americas! What’s more, they are breeding them with local, indigenous horses to create new breeds suited for those vast, unfamiliar terrains. I'm told it's a great feat of engineering! I find the stories about their daring adventures fascinating.
But of course, the most important aspect of the world for a horse like myself is what goes on on a local level. I’m pleased to see more and more farmers beginning to recognise the value of a strong, well-trained horse like me. They say horses are less valuable now than in the past. Perhaps, the new "fire chariots" and engines driven by the force of the wind will soon replace us in some places. I’m told that those engines travel far faster than any horse, but can they really replace the comforting weight of a harness, the trust in a gentle human companion, and the pride of a day’s hard work?
I wouldn’t call myself a dreamer, but there’s a small hope within me that we will continue to be a vital part of the human world. After all, I’ve learned through the years that people can be remarkably inventive. And perhaps there will always be a place for a trusty horse in this world, especially in places like this charming little Hayfield, where the horses and the humans work together in peace and harmony. Perhaps they can invent a carriage that travels even faster than these "fire chariots," or engines, and they’ll call it a "chariot" again, powered by strong and faithful steeds!
Anyway, those are some of my thoughts on this remarkable year of 1706. It has certainly been a year of change, travel, and innovation! What a remarkable time to be a horse. I look forward to seeing what new surprises 1707 will bring. Until next time, I hope your day is filled with tasty grass and sunny meadows! Stay safe and well, my dear equine companions.
Your friendly grey mare, Emma,
From Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland
In 1706, we can still be found helping to move goods, and farming. But with the increasing demand for faster travel, new modes of transport are emerging, although horses continue to dominate!
Here are some fascinating developments in 1706:
The battle of Ramillies happened in May. It was a decisive victory for the allied forces, mostly British and Dutch, over France, under Louis XIV.
The use of horses for transport was also increasing as part of an attempt to counter the French monopoly on trade around the world. In 1706, The Royal Navy was engaged in a fierce struggle against French Privateers and French sea power was very potent in these early days. This led to the use of more naval ships, and therefore, horses, for troop and good movement.
American horses are also getting some exciting publicity this year! News reaches Europe that horses brought from Europe to America are proving highly successful in both farm work, for exploration, and warfare. There are talks that the "Horse Culture" of the Native Americans is proving inspiring for colonists as they look for more efficient ways to conquer new lands and cultivate them for produce.
The "charabanc" is starting to get traction as the newest form of "chariot". Although still very rare and primarily used by the wealthiest members of society, this new vehicle offers both more comfort and practicality in travel than traditional coaches. Imagine, even our most expensive luggage will travel alongside us on our new carriages.
This year's focus is on the expanding role of horses in human activities across Europe and its overseas ventures, and how this continues to impact the equine world, and specifically, the role of the draught horse! I’ll be back soon, dear reader, to continue chronicling these exciting developments in the world of the horse. Do let me know in the comments if there’s anything else you would like to hear about.
