Hello there, fellow equines! It’s Emma, your grey draught horse blogger from Hayfield near Aberdeen. I’m just twenty this year, feeling strong and full of life – well, most days, you know how it is! As a mare of my years, I thought I'd jot down some reflections on the year 1828. It was quite a year for us horses, let me tell you.
Now, let's be honest, the life of a working horse isn't all lavender fields and sugary carrots. We do heavy work, and I won’t lie, it’s not always a walk in the park, or should I say, a gallop in a meadow. However, I am incredibly grateful for what I have and wouldn't trade it for all the fancy tack in the world. We have our place in this world, and that place is vitally important.
The year 1828 was full of both big changes and lovely little moments, many that revolved around the incredible relationship between humans and horses. Let's start with a little bit of my world, shall we?
My home is a bustling little town with a big heart. Hayfield is nestled near the foothills of the Scottish highlands, so I'm used to the biting wind and the mist hanging like a veil around the town in winter. Don't let that fool you though – I've seen my share of sunshine and I even feel a nip of heat when the sun beats down on my coat in summer.
My life is all about serving the community – pulling the farmer's plough, hauling heavy loads of grain, and helping bring goods in and out of the market. The local folks know me as Emma, the "grey mare with a gentle heart," and I must admit, it does make me feel good when they say that!
Speaking of the farmer, Mr. McGregor, well, he's a right good one. Kind as can be, always ensures we get the best feed and a warm stable come nightfall. And let me tell you, there is nothing better than a steaming mug of oats and a bed of straw to settle into after a long day. You wouldn't believe the dreams I have!
This year, we started using this new-fangled invention – a thing called a "road-iron," if you please! It’s like a track made of iron rails and you have these massive contraptions running on them that look like moving buildings! Honestly, the sight of it sent my heart into a gallop the first time I saw it!
The strange thing is, these iron tracks seemed to go where there were no roads at all. It is incredible what human ingenuity can come up with! But here’s the thing: with the roads of iron and those enormous engines rolling about, we don’t see as many human travellers using their horses, as they have before. Some worry about being replaced by the iron roads, but honestly, I think that might give us a bit more free time, perhaps for leisurely rides in the meadows or longer rest in the stable. I won’t say we'll be out of a job, not completely. There'll always be work for us good horses!
This new way of transporting people and goods is quite something! However, in the realm of horses, there were even more changes afoot. In this very year, the world got its first peek at the "Highclere" horse – named after the glorious racehorse! Yes, indeed, she was a remarkable specimen of thoroughbred and set quite a buzz amongst horse enthusiasts! This mare became quite the topic of conversation. There was talk about how her progeny would become the best horses of all and revolutionise racing. Of course, the only races I see are the ones against time in the field. But I do know of these fancy racing events where human riders jockey on us magnificent creatures for some fancy golden cup. The humans are very serious about these events. Makes one think!
My favourite part of the year was the local horse fair! Imagine rows and rows of horses of every size and breed. From gentle Clydesdales to spirited Welsh ponies, they all come together! You have the old timer farmers trying to negotiate for the right horse to pull their carts and you have the young chaps who just want the fastest steed for a daring ride across the moorlands! Honestly, I felt so proud to be among all my kin, so many powerful and beautiful creatures in one place! The fair itself, full of hustle and bustle, and with those tempting oats and treats on sale, it just put you in a merry mood! And let me tell you, the other horses weren’t afraid to let their opinions be known with a healthy dose of whinnies, a playful stomp or two, and the occasional playful nip of the ear. I think that was what I loved the most!
Another incredible development in our world in 1828 was the opening of the Royal Veterinary College in London! For years, we’ve been treated by healers who used methods passed down from generation to generation, but now there is a place dedicated solely to studying and caring for us horses. That's a good thing, wouldn't you agree? Knowledge is always powerful! This college teaches everything from bone setting to new treatments for our common ailments. Maybe that new fancy invention the humans call a “stethoscope” will actually be helpful! I hope so.
We horses are not simply beasts of burden – we’re a vital part of life in this part of the world! You wouldn't believe the number of stories that are told about us, our exploits and even some incredible feats! Why, we even played a role in building the Caledonian Canal this year. Those sturdy Scottish Draught horses, such as myself, pulled barges along the waterways! Our strength and patience played a part in that great feat, building new trade routes between the coast and the highlands! Isn’t that incredible?!
However, not all news is positive for us horses in 1828. We’ve been facing some challenges as well. There’s this terrible thing called "the Great Horse Disease," some nasty virus that has taken quite a few horses in the country. The humans have been trying to learn about it and have come up with some things to try to stop its spread, such as quarantining infected horses and giving medicine to those who have it. I believe they’re working hard on this, and I pray for a quick resolution! It’s terrible seeing your fellow horses weakened and falling ill.
In all honesty, while there are worries for us horses, things seem to be looking up in a few ways! We are being recognized more for our incredible strength and abilities, even as we are facing changes in the way people and goods are transported! It does fill me with a bit of anxiety, but that's just natural, you know. Still, this is an exciting time, one of big changes, but also a chance to prove that we horses will always find our place!
Until next time, you all take care and may the wind be in your mane and your hooves touch only smooth and firm ground!
Sincerely, Emma
(Editor's Note)
Dear EquiWorld readers, Emma's insights into 1828 have certainly highlighted the critical role horses played in shaping society and industry. While the world witnessed significant strides in technological innovation, it is truly wonderful to learn about how horses like Emma are thriving despite facing these changes! Please continue to share your thoughts and reflections about our equine friends. After all, they deserve recognition for their contribution and our ongoing admiration.
Next week, we’ll bring you stories from the "other side," exploring how the horse races, breeding practices and animal healthcare advancements are viewed from a human perspective. We can’t wait to share that with you all! Stay tuned.
