Welcome to my blog, dear readers! I am Emma, a grey mare with a white mane and tail, born and bred in the rolling hills of Hayfield, just a stone's throw from Aberdeen, Scotland.
This year, 1719, has been particularly eventful in the equine world. A whirlwind of change and progress, if I do say so myself! Allow me to take you through it all, from the bustling streets of London to the sprawling Scottish moors, from the royal stables to the fields where hard-working horses like myself earn our oats.
A Whirlwind of Activity
Firstly, a most delightful change is happening in London. It seems the Royal Mews, the royal stables, have undergone a thorough transformation. King George I, the new king, has ordered the construction of grand new stables. The old stables, which served his predecessors for over two centuries, are being torn down and replaced with structures built in the new Georgian style. I am told they are magnificent, with vaulted ceilings and even separate stalls for each horse. Talk about a palace for horses! This upgrade demonstrates how highly the King, and the British people in general, value their steeds.
However, there’s a whiff of worry amongst us horses as well. They are installing new grooming and training techniques that involve “gentle persuasions,” a rather curious method. It's rumoured this includes using a long, flexible whip that resembles a "stick of rattan." Honestly, I do hope they aren't too harsh. We horses deserve kind treatment, especially considering all that we do for them.
Progress and a Whiff of Change
Another change sweeping the nation is the increase in the popularity of the “Clydesdale” breed of horse, large and strong and hailing from Scotland, just a few leagues from where I call home. These imposing beasts are quickly becoming the preferred draft horses for work, pulling heavy carts and carriages through the city streets, helping to move heavy loads on farms, and assisting with even bigger jobs like mining and construction. They're real workhorses, much like myself! It seems they’re especially prized for their gentleness and strength. A lot of work goes into breeding and training these majestic giants, making them a sight to behold.
In my quiet corner of Hayfield, though, things haven’t changed much. Farmers still rely on us, the hardy draught horses, to pull plows and carry loads. Every morning, we greet the sunrise with the crunch of hooves on the dew-laden grass. We are vital to the local economy, the work we do vital for providing sustenance. Sometimes, I do wonder how these city horses manage the constant clamour and chaos. Life here in Hayfield, amidst the gentle hills and sheep-dotted pastures, feels peaceful, even if sometimes it is quite demanding.
Tales from Across the World
News has come from far-flung corners of the globe as well! It seems the Spanish are finding clever uses for our brethren. Their horses are used in an exciting and very valuable profession: transporting mail across vast distances. This method of mail delivery is referred to as the “Correos.” These horses traverse long, arduous routes, covering amazing distances, proving their stamina and endurance. They're like brave explorers of the equine world!
This news from Spain inspires me! Imagine a world where horses can travel and be known for their resilience and courage! A bit more of a life than plodding through a furrow, though, to be honest, my back and hooves don’t object to a quiet life.
And now, let's not forget our equine friends in France. There, the horses are still in demand for military purposes, hauling cannons and soldiers across battlefields. It seems there's always a place for horses in warfare. It makes me proud to be a part of such a loyal and strong species, ready to help when needed. Although, if truth be told, I prefer pulling a plow or a cart to hauling weapons and facing danger.
Tales from the Neighbours
From closer to home, news travels by word of mouth, carried by the wind. My best friend, Beatrice, the piebald mare who lives on the farm next door, shared exciting news with me. Apparently, the Earl of Aberdeen has begun importing new horses. It seems they are of an even rarer breed: Arabian horses!
They say these Arabians are sleek, swift and incredibly intelligent. Their elegance is captivating, and they’re even known to be "fiery spirited.” I confess, I’m a bit envious! Imagine a life spent in the grand estate, attending balls and showing off my sleek beauty and grace. But that's just a fanciful daydream for me. Perhaps, my daughters will live such a life!
As for Beatrice and me, our lives continue in our gentle routines, our days filled with the rhythm of work, the quiet camaraderie of the other horses in the stable, and the comforting sounds of the farm, including the friendly cawing of the ravens.
Looking to the Future
This year has brought much change and development to the world of horses. I can only imagine what exciting discoveries the next few years hold for us, for the humans who depend on us, and for the future of our noble breed.
Keep galloping with me, my dear readers, as I continue to chronicle the journey of horses, the fascinating tale of this incredible creature, the backbone of our world.
Thank you for joining me, and don’t forget to visit www.equiworld.org, your source for everything equestrian.
