History of Horses in the year 1782

From Hayfield to the World!

Hello everyone! It’s Emma here, a young grey mare with a penchant for fine oats and a nose for adventure. I'm excited to be writing my first ever blog post! Yes, you heard that right - your very own draught horse with thoughts to share, thanks to the wondrous world of the internet! My dear friend, Mr. Maxwell, the local blacksmith, told me all about it.

I'm a twenty-year-old mare, born and bred on the farm just outside Hayfield, a charming little village near Aberdeen. You know, with the rolling hills and that crisp Scottish air, a truly delightful place to be a horse! Now, as a farm horse, you might think my life is pretty straightforward. But let me tell you, it's quite exciting actually! I’ve had a year full of surprises, new experiences and a peek into the grand world beyond Hayfield.

This post, for the good folk over at EquiWorld, will take you back to the year 1782 – a year that’s brimming with equine history. And what a year it’s been for us horses!

Let’s journey through time, shall we?

Ah, 1782 – a year full of change. It all started in the springtime when I felt a deep sadness hanging in the air, as heavy as the freshly turned soil. This was the year the Great Famine struck Ireland, the worst to hit that beautiful Emerald Isle. Sadly, people and their horses suffered alike. In fact, it’s heartbreaking to think that in 1782, the Irish farmers, our trusted companions, had to sell their faithful horses at impossibly low prices – they couldn’t feed them and their families both.

While my heart aches for my fellow horses who had to face such hardship, I must say it truly was a reminder of how precious our lives are, especially with our humans, the gentle souls who look after us.

The 1780s weren’t exactly the golden age for draught horses. Oh, don’t get me wrong – our roles on farms, carting loads and tilling the fields, remain as essential as ever. But with the increasing popularity of carriages, those sleek thoroughbreds with their flashy colours are capturing hearts. I understand why humans admire their grace and speed. I’ve seen those fancy carriage horses in the local fairs – with their elegant black satin head-bands and plumes on their bridles, truly dazzling!

I, however, am proud to be a sturdy grey mare. I pull the plows that feed the local families, haul timber to build houses and transport goods to market. In fact, I’m proud to say that Hayfield wouldn’t function without the trusty horses. Just recently, the farmer asked me to help bring hay from the other side of the farm to help feed the cattle. Not the fastest task, mind you, but as they say, 'slow and steady wins the race'.

It’s funny how horses like me can have dreams. You’d be surprised how much we think! Even though I'm a humble workhorse, I daydream about adventures beyond the fields and farms. Perhaps a trip to a grand city where horses like myself could be admired for our strength and loyalty, or maybe a visit to a horse show where I could test my agility, even if I’m not the sleekest racehorse!

I often observe the passing coaches. You see, Hayfield lies near a busy road that takes travellers from Edinburgh to Aberdeen. Every now and then, I get a glimpse of the big city folk heading to the coast. They’re all so stylishly dressed and seem so content – some even give me apples! The travellers on the coaches wave to us and even the children gasp when they see us! I must admit I enjoy the little moments of recognition, just as much as I like nibbling the juicy apples.

The horses on those coaches seem to enjoy their travels and have their own sense of wonder and curiosity. Maybe one day, I’ll join them. For now, however, I remain steadfast and content on our little farm, for I love Hayfield and I wouldn't trade the friendly folks here for anything!

While I yearn to see more of the world, it’s the close-knit bonds between horses and humans that bring me the greatest joy. Even though my human companions in Hayfield never told me about the history that surrounded our roles, they understood me better than words could express. They cared for me as a member of the family, ensuring my comfort and well-being.

It is heartwarming to know that the world has seen our kind as indispensable companions – friends who pull carts, share meals and travel together. For in that year, 1782, not just us horses, but people across the globe found solace and camaraderie with each other, including their equine companions, finding solace in the familiarity of their bond.

My fellow horses, it's important to remember our impact on history, and our significance in everyday life. Remember that every kick, every snort, every nudge speaks of our unique language, our relationship with humankind that is timeless, and our remarkable story woven through history, as important as the events that occur. It's through these shared moments that we horses add a certain warmth to our story - something beautiful to be proud of.

Now, let’s gallop through time together and discover what else awaits us in the world of horses!

Till next time, fellow equine friends!

Yours sincerely,

Emma