Hello, fellow equines and horse enthusiasts! It's Emma here, a proud grey mare with a white mane and tail, born and bred in the beautiful, rolling hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen in bonnie Scotland. Welcome to my blog, where I share my equine musings, reflections, and of course, the most exciting news from the world of horses!
Today, I'm taking a trip back in time, to the year 1735. Now, while this might seem like a very long time ago, I'll be honest: horses like us, we haven't changed much. We still love a good roll in the mud, a friendly nicker to our stable mates, and of course, the feel of the wind in our mane as we trot across open fields! But the world around us, that was different, and even though I can't quite wrap my hooves around some of the details, let me share with you some of the fascinating events in the world of horses, 288 years ago!
From Farms to Fancy: Horses in a Changing World
Life in 1735 was quite different from our lives today. For starters, you might be surprised to hear that my biggest role was less about leisurely rides through rolling countryside, and more about getting down to the nitty-gritty of farm work. Yes, I am a draught horse, and back then, it wasn't just fancy breeds like me who were expected to work. Every horse played a crucial role in maintaining life as they knew it.
Whether we were pulling ploughs through rich soil, hauling heavy loads, or helping with tasks like threshing and winnowing grain, horses were absolutely essential for farm life. In 1735, horse power was quite literally the power that drove everything, and I was very proud to be part of this, even if my work could be a little bit... well, strenuous at times.
But this was only one side of the story! There were horses used for more 'fashionable' purposes too, pulling carriages, coaches and even helping riders to hunt foxes – a sport that was becoming increasingly popular amongst the wealthy and aristocratic classes. Think of us as the four-legged vehicles that helped connect communities, allowing people to travel more easily, whether for business or for pleasure!
Breeding & Style
While the work horse remained the most common sight in 1735, the desire for new breeds and different types of horses continued to grow. For instance, there was great excitement around what is now known as the Hackney breed! Originating in England, Hackneys were sought-after for their stylish appearance, agility and speed, becoming a favoured breed amongst both farmers and gentlemen who wanted a faster ride around town. Imagine being the coolest horse on the block – that was a Hackney!
You see, while the 18th century may seem like a very long time ago, breed improvement and selective breeding were just as important then as they are now! It seems that horses, we all have an innate desire for beauty, grace, and a little bit of that showstopper style, even 288 years ago!
New Developments: A Whirlwind of Change
1735 also marked the rise of new advancements, especially in terms of veterinary care and horse management. This was a year of learning and improvement! Veterinarians, yes, even then! were discovering better ways to treat illnesses, as well as methods of horse care and training, resulting in longer lifespans and happier horses, including your favourite grey mare right here!
The Veterinary College was just beginning to make its mark in 1735, though I heard that it took a good deal of time before it truly established itself. You see, horses are very strong, brave, and have a big heart, but when they are hurt or sick, it's really important to get help quickly, and this College would become a crucial part of their care in the years to come.
A Touch of Wonder & A Message of Love
Being a draught horse, I mostly remained grounded, but it was always delightful to listen to stories of faraway places and travels. People would often mention exotic creatures from around the world, including horses, like the Arabian, the majestic Andalusian, and even the strong, proud Friesian breed. They would share fascinating accounts of their strength, their stamina, and their undeniable charm. It makes me proud to think about the incredible diversity of our kind.
So there you have it! A glimpse into the fascinating world of horses in 1735, a time of hard work, new discoveries and breathtaking beauty. I'm thankful for my heritage, and to my fellow equines for carrying the legacy of our kind forward, every single day! Remember to always appreciate your furry companions, whether they are your trusty workhorse, or a friendly horse like me!
Next week I will be talking about some of my most favourite horse related books! See you all there!
Emma
