Post #1789: From Hayfield, with Love
Greetings, fellow equines! It’s Emma here, a 20-year-old grey draught mare from Hayfield, a small village just outside the bustling city of Aberdeen, in Scotland. Today, I want to share a glimpse into the world of horses in 1789, a year brimming with activity, innovation, and some delightful changes in how we're seen.
Now, you may be wondering what life is like for a workhorse in 1789. Let me tell you, it’s a busy, challenging, and ultimately, very rewarding life. Every day starts with a good grooming, a hearty breakfast of oats and hay, and a grateful nod to my master, John. John is a kind man, always with a gentle touch and a twinkle in his eye, a true friend to any equine.
We, the draught horses, are the backbone of Hayfield. We pull the plows, haul the timber, and cart the produce to the markets in Aberdeen. We’re part of the beating heart of the village, contributing to the lively economy and community. But 1789 was special – something was stirring in the world of horses.
One morning, as we were hauling hay bales across the fields, John suddenly stopped the wagon, his face aglow with excitement. “Did you hear about the horse trials in London, Emma? They are offering incredible prizes for the strongest, fastest, and most elegant horses. And this year, for the first time, they are even inviting draught horses to participate!”
My heart galloped faster than any thoroughbred in a race. Could this be true? We, the working horses, who had always toiled diligently in the fields and along the roads, could finally showcase our skills on a larger stage! A new sense of hope blossomed within me. It wasn’t just about prizes – it was about proving our worth, about proving that strength and determination come in all shapes and sizes, that even a workhorse could hold a special place in the world.
Of course, John couldn’t simply let me go off to London. We were a team, and Hayfield needed me. However, his face lit up when I expressed my enthusiasm for the trials. He whispered, "Perhaps a younger, more agile horse, one from the stables of the Lord’s manor house, would be the perfect competitor.” He looked thoughtful, a smile slowly forming. He knew how important this was to me.
The weeks flew by, and with a mixture of apprehension and excitement, I watched as one of my young stable mates, a beautiful chestnut mare named Rosie, was selected for the London trials. She was so eager, with eyes full of determination and an almost tangible excitement bubbling within her. John, with his trademark smile, gifted Rosie with a silver bell, a token of good luck for the trials. "Remember Rosie,” he told her, “represent us all, show them the strength and elegance of a horse."
The news of the trials resonated throughout Hayfield and the surrounding villages. People, particularly women, were thrilled at the prospect of horses from all walks of life showcasing their talents. Some even shared tales of daring steeds, legends passed down through generations, whispering of the glorious equestrian events in ancient Greece and Rome. The anticipation was palpable – even in our humble stable, whispers of horses racing across fields and jumping hurdles filled the air.
Through it all, Rosie, my young friend, became a symbol of hope for us all. It was a time of change, a time where the world was recognizing the incredible diversity of horses, appreciating not just the swift thoroughbreds, but also the strong, unwavering draught horses.
Rosie’s success at the trials was a resounding triumph. She returned a hero, adorned with medals and ribbons, the champion of her category. Her story swept across the countryside, inspiring every horse and every rider. And most importantly, it inspired hope in us – the humble workhorses, reminding us that even a seemingly ordinary horse could become extraordinary with a little courage and a whole lot of hard work.
While the trials had been about individual achievements, the impact extended far beyond. For the first time, it was apparent that there was a real push for collaboration, not just within the horse world but within the broader communities as well. A group of dedicated horsewomen began organizing regional competitions, bringing together horses from diverse backgrounds, fostering friendships and encouraging a greater understanding of these magnificent animals.
John, upon hearing of the initiatives, immediately took an active role. He was always passionate about horses and their well-being, but he was especially moved by the increasing acceptance of draught horses in these competitions. It showed him, and us, that change was in the air. This was a time when horses of all breeds, shapes, and sizes were being recognized, valued, and appreciated for what they truly were – remarkable creatures with a unique strength and elegance.
The change wasn’t just confined to competitions. There was a new understanding of horses as companions and collaborators. This extended into the sphere of arts and literature, where paintings and stories celebrated the strength and resilience of these creatures. A renowned portrait painter, whose work adorned the walls of the Lord’s manor, decided to paint Rosie, not in the formal stance of a thoroughbred, but in her natural working attire – the powerful and noble beauty of a draught horse.
The stories, paintings, and poems all underscored the unwavering bond between humans and horses, reflecting a shared journey of companionship, respect, and mutual trust. The love for these creatures extended to every aspect of society – from the bustling city markets to the quiet, idyllic countryside villages.
One day, a beautiful carriage, a real sight to behold, pulled up at our stable in Hayfield. A grand lady, with a gentle smile and an unmistakable love for horses, was on a visit to the region. She stepped out, her eyes immediately drawn to me, and with a gentle gesture invited me to walk beside her.
“I heard of your Rosie,” she whispered. “I heard about the remarkable spirit of the horses of Hayfield.” As I walked with her, the sun reflecting off her carriage and warming my coat, a sense of warmth filled my being. We were no longer just workhorses – we were ambassadors, representing a change, a revolution of understanding, a time of profound recognition and respect. It was a glorious feeling, one that gave me a deep sense of purpose and a renewed love for the life we all lead, horses and humans, in harmony.
This is the world of horses in 1789, a year marked by exciting changes and a blossoming love for these incredible animals. As the year progresses, I can’t help but feel that this is just the beginning of a truly special chapter in our history – one full of possibilities, love, and even a few races.
I look forward to sharing the next chapter of this grand journey with you all. Until next time, my dear fellow equines, may your hooves always be firm and your spirits soar.
With Love,
Emma
Hayfield, Aberdeen
