Hello, dear readers! Emma here, a proud grey draught mare with a white mane and tail, coming to you from the rolling hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. Today, I’m excited to share with you the incredible adventures that the year 1878 has brought to the world of horses. Let me tell you, it’s been a time of great change and growth for our equine family!
This year started, as always, with a touch of frost on the ground, the air sharp and crisp. But my humans were already planning the coming year. As I am a draught horse, strong and sturdy, my main job is to pull the cart for the local baker, Mr. MacPherson, in the nearby town of Inverurie. His bread is renowned for its sourdough goodness, and I feel quite proud to play a role in delivering this scrumptious treat every morning.
The winter months were rather quiet, a time to rest and regain strength after the busy harvest season. But there were still plenty of things to keep us horses entertained. Our groom, a gentle lad named Sandy, would brush our coats and chat to us, sharing stories of his family and the bustling market in Inverurie. My favourite part, however, was when he’d let me nuzzle him, a friendly gesture that warmed my heart even on the coldest days.
As the snow melted and the first crocuses started to peek through the earth, we could sense the change in the air. Spring was approaching, and with it, the excitement of a new racing season.
The news spread quickly across the countryside – the famous Ascot Races were soon to commence! The Queen, of course, was the centre of attention, as always. Imagine! Her very own private racecourse, just for the royal family. Talk about privileged!
It wasn’t just the Queen who enjoyed racing, however. Horse racing had become incredibly popular among the aristocracy. It was a grand social affair, a showcase of power, and, of course, the ultimate test of horse and rider. Many a wager was placed on who would win, adding a layer of excitement to the whole spectacle.
Even our farmer, Mr. Grant, enjoyed a good bet. But unlike the lords and ladies who could afford to place lavish bets on the most prized stallions, he preferred to place modest bets on humble, hardworking horses like myself. I am sure Mr. Grant wished he could win a fortune, but I secretly think he simply enjoys the camaraderie of betting with his fellow farmers at the local pub.
As spring bloomed into summer, my world was once again filled with the rhythmic clink of horse shoes on cobblestones. Mr. MacPherson needed me to make extra trips, delivering bread to new bakeries, shops, and even the grand manor house owned by Lord Blackwood. It seemed like the entire county was buzzing with excitement for the annual Inverurie Horse Show.
The Inverurie Show was a chance for local farmers, like Mr. Grant, to show off their finest livestock. And let me tell you, the horses were truly magnificent! There were stallions so sleek and muscular that they practically shimmered under the sun, and mares so elegant that they made even the strongest cart horse feel a bit… well… clumsy. But the show was about more than just winning ribbons. It was about a chance to celebrate our connection with these noble creatures and recognize their tireless service to humankind.
There were competitions of all sorts. Some involved leaping over fences, demonstrating speed and agility. Others focused on the strength and stamina of pulling heavy carts or ploughs. Each one highlighted different skills that are vital for us horses. The show also showcased beautiful horse-drawn carriages, a sight that always made my heart soar. The sound of the horses’ hooves clicking against the cobbles was truly magical, the air filled with the intoxicating aroma of polished leather and fresh-cut hay.
But the greatest highlight of the year for us horses, my fellow Equine readers, is coming very soon - the 1878 World’s Fair in Paris! This year’s fair will focus on a grand exhibition of “progress”, and believe you me, we horses are on the forefront of this progress!
Can you imagine, dear readers? From Hayfield to the most stylish city in all of Europe – Paris! The humans are busy putting together grand displays, featuring us horses, showcasing our capabilities, and honouring our role in their everyday life. It is said that Queen Victoria herself might even attend, which makes it even more exciting! Of course, there will be carriages, beautiful horses and a celebration of the horse's role in society.
I may not be going to Paris this year - after all, a steady hand pulling a baker's cart is still quite a valuable job in Hayfield! But I hear the excitement growing day by day as horses from all over Europe are being readied for this grand journey. And as the air gets colder, we will all be reminded that the work of horses never ends, be it a cart, a plough or pulling the luxurious carriage for the queen herself.
Oh! What a grand year it has been for horses, isn't it? It is amazing how, even amidst such big events, a good brush from a gentle groom can make a horse's heart happy!
Until next time, from Hayfield to your homes, stay well!
Emma.
You can read more of Emma’s Equine Adventures every month here on EquiWorld!
