History of Horses in the year 1759

Greetings, dear fellow equines! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood draught horse from the lush meadows of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. This blog is my way of sharing some of the wondrous events that graced the world of horses during this most magnificent year, 1759.

Ah, 1759… It seems like just yesterday, doesn't it? It was a time of change and progress for our kind, with advancements in farming and the increasing demand for horses for transport. And even amidst all the bustle and toil, there was a touch of romance in the air, a quiet glimmer of hope for a better future.

My days started early, as they always did. Dawn broke with a chorus of chirping birds, gently coaxing me out of my slumber. My sturdy grey coat shimmered with dew as I munched on the fresh green grass, savouring the cool morning air. Soon, Farmer Angus was calling me and the rest of the horses to their daily tasks. We were a merry band, all working in harmony, pulling ploughs and wagons, transporting hay bales and goods to market.

My best friend, a chestnut mare named Hazel, was a firecracker. Always quick with a playful nip or a playful kick, she kept things lively, even during the long hours of labour. It's quite amazing how the different personalities of our kind can blend seamlessly into a team, driven by a shared purpose.

This year, a new stallion arrived at the farm - a magnificent black Percheron named Shadow. Now, he had this air of regal charm, a certain charisma that was hard to resist. Even Hazel had to admit, with a snort of grudging respect, that he had an elegant gait, something to admire even amidst his robust build. And wouldn’t you know it, we had our own little flirtation! A flash of eye, a subtle rub of the nose, a bit of playful jostling while pulling the plough – a quiet dance under the watchful gaze of Farmer Angus. Sadly, the time was not right for something more, as I still had duties to my owner, and my loyal heart had room only for my work and Hazel. But Shadow...he did bring an interesting flavour to our routine!

Beyond the farm, word reached us of exciting events happening in the big city – Edinburgh! They held grand races for thoroughbred horses, showcasing their speed and elegance. These races drew crowds from all over, and I confess I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to run at full gallop on such a grand track, even if my physique wouldn't suit such an endeavor.

And then, the news of fashion trends reached our quiet corner of the world. Oh, the latest horse carriages! The finest gentlemen and ladies travelled in style, perched in exquisite vehicles adorned with fine leather and gleaming metalwork, with horses meticulously groomed, their coats shimmering under the afternoon sun. I heard that the carriages themselves became as much a part of the fashion world as the horses who pulled them – their designs reflecting the latest whims of society.

Now, I have to confess that, as much as I appreciated the elegance, a little part of me secretly scoffed at some of these “modern” trends. There's a beauty in simple functionality, you know? My life, like the life of most working horses, wasn't all frills and flash – it was about hard work and genuine connection. But who am I to judge? Every horse has their own journey.

It wasn't all sunshine and roses, however. News arrived of a grand conflict, the Seven Years' War. It's said this war shook the very foundations of Europe, causing great upheaval and sorrow for those who lost their homes and loved ones. Though the battles raged far away from my peaceful meadow, I could sense the tension even in our quiet little Hayfield. We knew our role in it all - pulling supplies and transporting wounded soldiers - a harsh reality of war, even for our kind.

But even amidst the conflict, humanity showed resilience, even a dash of artistry. While I may not be able to read or write, I learned about the war from stories, shared whispers and, importantly, from the many travellers passing through Hayfield. It seemed this conflict inspired poets to write of bravery and patriotism. Musicians composed tunes about battle and heroes, and some were even inspired by the steadfast horses who helped bring strength and courage in times of crisis.

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting. The world was filled with strife, it is true, but I believe it was also a time of progress. Horses, we played our part, as we always have – working side by side with humankind, in peace and in war. I believe, though, that our kind continued to forge a unique relationship with our human counterparts – one of mutual respect, of loyalty and of a shared bond in our journeys across the changing landscape of time.

The coming years, they hold their own mysteries, their own joys and sorrows. And who knows, maybe some new stories will be waiting to be shared from the fields of Hayfield, through the lens of this grey mare.

Until then, goodnight and godspeed to all my equine friends across the land!

With hooves and heartfelt neighs, Emma, Hayfield Draught Horse