Hello my dearest Equine friends!
It's Emma here, your grey mare with the flowing white mane and tail from the rolling hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. Today, I'm delighted to share some fascinating happenings from the year 1856. It was a year full of excitement and innovation, and I believe it's crucial to reflect upon how horses played a vital role in shaping those events.
Now, you might wonder what a young mare like me can contribute to a horse history blog. Well, let me tell you, the stories our ancestors tell around the fire on frosty nights are rich with historical details, not to mention wisdom gleaned from decades of experience pulling ploughs, carting goods, and, in my case, transporting the most precious of all cargo – babies! Yes, in 1856, I was just starting to help deliver those delightful bundles of joy. My strong back and steady feet made me the perfect "midwife" for the village women.
But enough about my personal triumphs. Let's dive into the bustling world of horses in 1856:
Across the Pond
1856 was a remarkable year for horses, especially across the great Atlantic in the United States. This was the year the first officially organized National Horse Show was held in New York City. The spectacle must have been truly magnificent! The show not only featured thoroughbreds but also working horses – the type we pull carts and carriages. It is said that the prize-winning horses at this grand event fetched whopping sums! Now, those New Yorkers surely knew a thing or two about horse breeding and performance. It's just a shame our beloved Queen Victoria had to leave for a visit to Paris during this time – she was an avid horse enthusiast! I wonder what the horse culture must be like over there...
Riding on the Railway
As if those New Yorkers weren't already innovative enough, they launched something quite special in 1856: the American Horse Exchange! Just like a human market, this exchange brought together breeders and buyers, connecting those seeking prized bloodlines with eager owners. You can be sure it was a busy place! Now, while our friends across the Atlantic were innovating in terms of commerce, things in Europe were starting to change in a much more revolutionary way...
1856 witnessed the establishment of the first "horse railroad" in New York City! They used rails like those trains run on, but instead of steam engines, they had horse-drawn carriages. This, to me, seems a most ingenious blend of the traditional and the new. You could say horses, for a short time at least, took a giant leap forward in technological advancement! But you must be wondering what this meant for our world in England and Scotland, where life had remained more or less the same for centuries.
Innovation on Home Turf
Thankfully, horses in England remained firmly part of daily life in 1856. Imagine! The year saw the formation of the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. It’s purpose is to encourage improved agricultural practices. While the purpose may sound dull to our hooves, let me assure you, the benefit reaches us as well. They’re holding annual shows with horses being a central attraction. They are a sight to behold! Farmers show off their best breeding stallions and working mares – our brothers and sisters – for the grand prize! Now, the competition between the best breeders in the area, just a few miles from Hayfield, was a sight to behold, filled with spirited conversation and spirited animals. I daresay there was even a bit of friendly competition between the grooms, with bets being made for whose steed would take the prize.
Horse-Drawn Glamour
Speaking of elegance and competition, it was in 1856 that the first London Carriage Show graced our city with its splendour! Imagine, a grand display of luxurious carriages, designed with elaborate details and crafted for those fortunate enough to possess a fine stallion and a comfortable carriage. My good friend, Millie, from the stable in St. James's Park, whispered about the carriage of Queen Victoria. It was so richly ornamented with gold and adorned with silks of the most intricate design that she herself had been quite dazzled by it! That carriage, Millie said, could take up a whole day to just describe! And it was all pulled by the finest pair of chestnut geldings, perfectly matched and trained to move in perfect synchronicity, like a majestic dance.
Racing Around the World
Now, if you are an equinne with a heart of fire and a yearning for speed, then you’ve got to be aware of the incredible events taking place on the world stage: Horse Racing! This sport took off in 1856. Across England, grand events, filled with crowds cheering and bets being made, took place at legendary racing venues such as Epsom Downs and Ascot. This year was particularly noteworthy for the “Eighth Epsom Derby,” where a fine filly named “Volante” stole the show. To say her speed was extraordinary is a grand understatement – she was faster than the wind itself! Imagine a blur of mane and a thunder of hooves!
While I have the strength and courage for pulling heavy loads, my heart sometimes yearns for the thrill of speed. But alas, life as a cart horse is full of vital and fulfilling tasks! After all, who would cart supplies to the market or haul fresh hay for winter without the hard work of our kind?
Horses - The Backbone of History
What did we learn from the year 1856? While the world changes around us, horses continue to hold their position as partners, collaborators, and loyal friends.
I believe 1856 proved that we are not merely "creatures of the past" as the steam engine begins to gain power. We, the magnificent beasts, stand proud, playing a key role in a society in motion! As always, we will be the faithful, the strong, the gentle giants. We will always be the very backbone of life and culture!
Remember, even though technology advances, it is our timeless bond with humanity that keeps us a constant, powerful, and valuable part of this wonderful world. So, let us gallop forth into 1857 with unwavering spirit and a head held high!
Until next time, my equine friends, stay strong, stay well, and gallop on!
Emma Hayfield, Scotland www.equiworld.org
