“A Year of Change and Progress – A Glimpse from Hayfield”
By Emma
Dearest Readers,
How do I begin? This year, 1849, has been filled with more excitement than any other year I’ve known since being born on our Highland farm. My dear human family, the McGregors, call me Emma. I’m a strong grey draught mare with a white mane and tail, as sleek as polished silver, just like my coat. Hayfield is where my journey started, but this year has taken me further afield, opening my eyes (and my nostrils!) to a whole new world.
A Glimpse into Hayfield
Hayfield lies close to the bustling town of Aberdeen. From my field, I can smell the salt of the North Sea, and feel the gentle breezes from its shores. It’s a small world but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. There’s nothing I love more than watching the Highland cows graze and smell the scent of heather blooming on the moor. The McGregors have always treated me like a part of the family. My best friend is the youngest lad, Alistair. He's only six, but he knows me better than anyone. He knows all my favourite scratches, he never pulls too hard on the reins, and his laughter makes my heart feel as warm as a sunbeam.
The Big Journey
Now, about the changes. You see, the McGregors aren't just farmers anymore, no sir. This year, my life changed for the better – I was part of a grand event! You see, it’s no secret that 1849 saw the start of something special: the Highland & Agricultural Society’s Grand Show. This amazing event came to Aberdeen for the first time. And I? Well, I was picked to pull the MacGregor family carriage. Just imagine! I had the privilege of taking them in grand style, showing them to all the town and visitors. What a privilege to be a part of the parade of prizewinning horses, pulling decorated carts.
We weren’t the only horses participating; oh, no! The town was alive with Clydesdales and Shire horses from all over, all there to show off their beauty, strength, and skills. It was such a whirlwind – so many sights, so many smells! It filled me with pride. My job was to pull the grandest coach, the carriage the McGregors kept for special occasions. I wasn't competing for ribbons or prizes, but just the sheer spectacle filled my heart with a joy I can't describe.
Seeing the World Beyond the Field
Travelling to Aberdeen wasn't the only adventure this year. We’ve made journeys, hauling cargo for the merchants, carrying supplies from the city into the countryside. And while it’s hard work, I truly enjoy seeing the world go by – and smelling it! Every journey takes me past rolling green hills and farmhouses, by forests bursting with fragrant pines and buzzing bees, across bridges where I catch the smell of river water and moss. Each trip offers something new.
This year has taught me that even when I work hard, my life is rich and full. As a draught horse, I carry a vital burden, but the satisfaction of delivering goods, supporting the needs of the community, and feeling that strong connection to humans - well, it truly fills me with pride.
Horses of the World – It’s all Happening!
You know what? This year isn't just about me and the grand show, but about horses from all over! My favourite newsletter from “Equiworld,” with all its fascinating news from around the globe, just came in. And what an issue! From America to Europe, this year has seen progress for horses all over.
Racing on a Larger Stage: It seems America’s love affair with thoroughbreds just keeps growing. News comes from the famous Kentucky Derby! The story goes that “Lexington,” the racehorse, came in first with “Polk,” owned by the McLean family, not too far behind! I wonder if they have horses like “Lexington” at the races here.
Change in the Air: From across the Irish Sea, news came of something new and different, a show featuring horses used for agriculture, rather than just their racing capabilities. I read of new ideas to improve the breeding and the strength of working horses, new ways to harness their power, and innovations in horse-drawn vehicles.
The Gentle Art of Riding: As for pleasure riding, that’s big this year, and not just in England, which I've always thought was a bit fancy, with the Queen riding a horse now and then. The trend for riding, as a relaxing and refined hobby for women, is catching on in other parts of the world! Imagine, not just carrying heavy loads but riding with a lovely bit and a smooth leather saddle! I wouldn't mind giving that a go myself!
A Wish for the Future
All these happenings fill my heart with excitement, knowing that horses are still part of life, still working alongside humans. There’s something to celebrate each day! My own journey has taught me that even a simple working mare like myself can be part of something grand and important, whether it’s carrying heavy loads or pulling carriages to special events.
And what about the future? As I look to the next year, I hope to continue travelling and seeing new places, but most importantly, I hope to see horses like myself – all the gentle giants of the world - continue to thrive.
Thank you for listening, and happy trails to you!
-Emma
P.S. Don't forget to visit the Equiworld website! They have a wonderful forum where all horse enthusiasts, from far and wide, can share their thoughts and stories! Visit www.equiworld.org, the place where we all come together.
