My name is Emma, and I’m a 20-year-old grey mare. I was born and bred on a small farm in the quaint village of Hayfield near Aberdeen. Some may say I'm just a humble draught horse, but I've had a front-row seat to some of the most significant moments in our equine history.
You may be thinking, “Emma, why a blog? Isn’t that something a human would do?” Well, I suppose that’s what makes me unique! Humans have this fancy technology they call “the internet,” and thanks to a kind farmer’s daughter, Molly, I can now share my thoughts with all of you.
A Year of Change in 1825
The year 1825 was truly one of change and progress. I’ve always said that life moves in cycles, with the seasons being the biggest tell-tale, but this year seemed different, full of an undercurrent of excitement and new inventions.
It started with the coldest winter I can remember, snow piled so high it was hard to see where the road ended. The village of Hayfield was covered in white, the icy wind whistling through the chimneys of the stone houses. My human companions spent most of their days indoors by the fireplace, while my kind, old owner, Mr. Grant, would keep busy making sure all the livestock was safe and well fed.
As the snow melted, the earth sprung to life, much like we horses awaken after a good winter rest. The landscape exploded in a kaleidoscope of colors, from the bright yellow of buttercups to the gentle violet of bluebells. This marked the beginning of the busiest season for us horses.
The farm work never ends, but there was a newfound vigor this year. The old ways were slowly fading, with new farming methods taking hold. New ploughs and carts were being brought into Hayfield, inventions that made our lives a bit easier. This was exciting but also a bit unsettling – the scent of change lingered in the air, and it made me wonder what the future held for horses like myself.
Beyond the Fields – A Glimpse into the Wide World of Horses
As the year unfolded, we horses didn’t just work the fields. Word traveled to Hayfield, stories whispered on the wind of grand events unfolding in the larger world, all featuring our brethren. The biggest news was the establishment of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, in 1822. Their aim, they said, was to improve and encourage the art of agriculture. But for us horses, it meant better farming methods, bigger and stronger horses, and even more opportunities to shine!
That summer, there were stories of The Great Yorkshire Show taking place, filled with exhibitions and competitions where the finest of our breed were judged on strength and temperament. The excitement wasn’t limited to Britain either. The year 1825 was also significant for racing, as the Derby, that race of grand stature, celebrated its 3rd annual competition at Epsom Downs. And that’s just a few of the events in the human world that brought us horses into the limelight.
But don't let those fancy exhibitions fool you! We work horses have an essential role, the very heart of a nation's growth and sustenance. And although it’s a tough life, it’s an honest one. We plough the land, carry heavy loads, and even lend a helping hoof for transportation.
Our Role Beyond Work
This year I saw another side to us horses. Beyond work, beyond the farm and the fields, we hold a place in human culture. I saw children ride us bareback, their joyous laughter filling the air, the freedom of being one with the wind.
I was there when the menfolk would gather at the local pub, their conversation turning towards the stories of The Highwayman and tales of heroic steeds that helped shape history.
But the most extraordinary discovery this year came in the form of a young artist who stopped in Hayfield one day, traveling through on his way to London. He stopped to sketch me, he said he was fascinated by the strength and nobility I conveyed. He painted a beautiful portrait of me, showcasing the light glinting off my grey coat, my mane flowing in the wind, and the calm serenity in my eyes.
I never would have imagined that a humble farm horse like myself could inspire art!
The Importance of our Equine Kindred
It's often said, “A horse knows its place,” but I don't see it that way. Our work, our courage, and our presence shape history just as much as humans do.
As I age, and watch the young ones frolic and gallop, I realize that my life, and yours, is part of a much larger story. We’ve pulled carriages, guided ploughs, raced on grand courses, and stood side by side with humans through some of the most remarkable chapters of human history.
As I end this post, I stand tall in my pasture, watching the setting sun paint the sky in vibrant hues. 1825 may be just another year for some, but it’s one filled with momentous events, innovations, and reminders of the deep bond that exists between humans and their four-legged friends.
Until next time, stay curious, friends, and remember, the story of horses is still unfolding, one hoof print at a time!
- Emma
www.equiworld.org
