"Gallop into History: 1808 with Emma, your Grey Draught from Hayfield"
Hello dear readers! It's Emma, back with another entry into my horse-filled journal. 1808! Can you believe it? A new year brings a new sense of anticipation in Hayfield and all around the country. My strong legs feel ready for anything the year may throw at me, and my lovely white mane is blowing in the wind just thinking about it!
Today I'll be talking about my life in 1808 and sharing insights about what's going on in the world of horses this year. The horses are the true heroes of this world! From helping to bring food to our towns and villages to assisting in vital transportation for goods and people, there’s no doubt they make the world go round. So, let's get into it, shall we?
Life on the Hayfield Farm
Where to begin, dear readers? I wake up every morning in my lovely straw-filled stall in the Hayfield barn, listening to the gentle creaks of the beams as they settle from the day's work.
My stablemates are all very dear to me, each with their own personalities and quirks. Old Barney the bay, always grumpy first thing in the morning until he's had his oat porridge, the cheeky youngsters, Toby and Tilly, who always try to steal my breakfast, and of course, my closest companion, young Rosie, a lovely mare with a fiery spirit just like me!
Our day starts with a delicious feed of oats, mixed with hay and a sprinkle of sugar, the treat that makes everything so much better! My human, a lovely woman named Moira, knows exactly how to make me feel spoiled! After our breakfast, Moira brushes our coats to a shine - the most heavenly feeling ever - and checks our hooves and fetlocks to make sure everything is just so! Sometimes, we go for a gentle walk in the fields around the farm. Moira and I know every corner of the area so well, I know every stone and every scent, it’s truly my sanctuary.
We’re an important part of Hayfield life. My role is mainly that of a farm horse – ploughing fields for crops, hauling goods from the town, and even helping with the occasional delivery to our neighbouring farm, a place called Kincardine. It is rewarding work, making sure our small village and all the kind folk who live here, have the supplies they need. The heavy weight of the cart doesn't faze me one bit, my strong legs and broad chest can take any strain.
New and Exciting Developments in the World of Horses
Speaking of heavy loads and big, strong horses, let's talk about what's happening around the country and world.
It's a time of much change for our horse world. While most of us work hard every day to ensure our human friends have what they need, there's a buzz about a new type of horse – the "thoroughbred". These horses, bred for their speed and grace, are making their way onto racetracks. Apparently, racing is quite the popular pastime amongst those with a little extra coin, and there’s quite a lot of betting going on, but thankfully, not a drop of that gets wasted on my dear Moira.
However, the news is not always good. The threat of war hangs heavy in the air. And this means a call for more horses to be used by soldiers on the battlefield, a role not to be taken lightly. I imagine the sounds of cannons and clashing swords to be quite terrifying. Some fear that this demand for military horses will be hard on us, but we horses, especially we draughty fellas like me, will always be willing to help, though I would rather stay here in peaceful Hayfield!
More Than Just Work: Finding Time for Joy
Now, you might think all my days are spent working, but a well-rested and loved horse needs play time too! When work is done for the day, I enjoy galloping around the fields with Rosie, and sometimes, even a sneaky nip of the freshest grass, before Moira and I walk slowly back to the stable to be showered with love and well-deserved pats and cuddles. There’s nothing better than coming home after a hard day to the sounds of friendly chat and laughter, and of course, the familiar smells of home. It makes my heart feel happy.
The End of My Thoughts for This Year
I’ll continue to share my experiences throughout 1808, and keep you updated on any developments in the world of horses that catch my attention. Until next time, stay happy and safe, dear readers!
Don't forget to visit Equiworld.org for other insightful blog posts, news and features related to horses throughout the centuries!
Emma has penned her entry, but one thing has remained hidden from her view... There are forces beyond her stable door that will impact her life and all horses forever. As the days get colder and the air fills with a sense of unease, something is changing, something beyond human control, a dark cloud that threatens to overshadow the horse world as they know it... but we will wait to see if it casts its shadow in Emma's next blog.
