Greetings, fellow equines and horse enthusiasts!
Emma here, a grey mare with a heart full of history, writing to you from my quaint home in Hayfield, near the bustling city of Aberdeen, Scotland. It's been quite the year for us horses, 1711, a time of both great change and continued tradition in the equine world. Let me paint a picture for you, dear readers, of how we've lived and what we've witnessed this year.
A Horse's Life in 1711: Hayfield Harmony
Life in Hayfield is pretty good for a horse like me, a strong draught mare. It's all about rhythm and routine, you see. Mornings are always filled with the invigorating scent of fresh hay and oats. My master, a kind soul named Thomas, makes sure we're all well-fed and looked after. My stable mates – a chestnut mare named Lily, a sturdy brown gelding named Jasper, and a handsome black stallion named Finn – make each day a joy with their playful whinnies and friendly nudges.
The work itself isn't particularly arduous, mind you. Mostly, I pull the farm wagon, helping Thomas and his family transport hay bales, sacks of grain, and other vital supplies. We also cart manure, ensuring the soil stays rich and fruitful for their harvests. The occasional journey to the market in Aberdeen adds a bit of excitement to the week, letting me feel the energy of the city while transporting goods with other draught horses like me. It's all quite fulfilling.
The Grand Horse Fair at Hayfield
This year, the highlight of my spring was undoubtedly the Grand Horse Fair at Hayfield. It was like stepping into a whole new world, full of all sorts of magnificent creatures. I gazed in wonder at elegant thoroughbreds, their sleek bodies and fine coats. Their riders sat astride, so poised and graceful, their saddles decorated with ornate detail. I felt my hooves paw the ground with excitement as I watched the racing, the thoroughbreds galloping like the wind across the open meadow, a sight I could barely take in.
While I wasn't competing myself, I helped Thomas set up his stand, showcasing his fine carriage horses. We had a magnificent bay mare called Bess, her coat shimmering in the sunshine, and her partner, a handsome grey stallion named George. They pulled Thomas’ elegant carriage with pride, a perfect picture of strength and grace. Many came to admire them, some even negotiating deals with Thomas, a sure sign of their impressive physique and bloodline.
The Fair was filled with bustling activity, and you could feel the energy humming in the air. It was truly a joyous occasion for all horses, whether grand or humble, showcasing the diversity of our equine brethren. It filled me with pride to be part of it all, just for a day.
The World of Draught Horses:
Being a draught horse means you see the world from a different perspective. We are the backbone of the countryside, moving goods, plowing fields, and pulling carriages. It is a humble existence, but we are indispensable to human life. In the year 1711, I'd say draught horses like me are especially celebrated.
For instance, London is bustling with the construction of new buildings and projects, like St Paul’s Cathedral, and we draught horses are central to it all, transporting heavy materials and supplies across the city. While it's a noisy environment, filled with the clamor of hammers and the cries of workers, we keep a steady pace, delivering what’s needed.
The navy relies on us too. Ships need to be loaded with cargo, hauled to the wharves, and moved to and from docks. I heard that new regulations are coming in 1712 to ensure our welfare, so we don't suffer under harsh conditions and are given the time and rest needed to recover. These regulations would make our lives even better!
News From the Continent
Our neighbours across the water have been busy too. France, under the rule of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King," is still recovering from the War of the Spanish Succession. Sadly, there’s been news of heavy cavalry losses and dwindling horse numbers, with soldiers facing hardships and challenges. It breaks my heart to hear about such adversity, though thankfully the fighting seems to have finally ended, offering a sliver of hope to the war-torn land.
However, things appear to be quite bustling across the English Channel. While we’ve always had a reputation for strong and hearty workhorses in Scotland and England, it appears our strength and beauty are finding a new audience on the continent. In 1711, breeders in both France and Italy were actively looking to import our horses, especially Clydesdale stallions. My fellow countrymen were leaving for these lands, destined for work on farms, hauling coaches, and even carrying gentlemen of the court. This year seems to mark the start of something truly significant.
Changes On the Horizon
But it's not all roses. Change is happening at a dizzying pace in the world of horses, especially in the way they're treated. There’s increasing awareness about caring for horses, especially the working class. Even in Hayfield, people are starting to realize that proper nutrition, good shelter, and humane handling lead to stronger, more resilient horses. And it’s a welcome change, one I hope will continue to spread, benefiting us all.
The year 1711, while bringing its own challenges and rewards, promises an even brighter future for all horses.
Until next time, keep your hooves happy and your hearts hopeful.
Emma, the Grey Mare from Hayfield.
