Good morning, my fellow equines, and welcome back to my little corner of EquiWorld. Today, we journey to the year 1885, a time when steam was taking over, but horses were still very much the heart and soul of the world.
My name is Emma, a strong, handsome grey mare with a mane and tail as white as fresh fallen snow. My home is in Hayfield, a picturesque little village nestled near Aberdeen in the beautiful Scottish highlands. You know what they say: the rolling hills of Scotland are just made for horses!
1885, oh my, it was a year of change. Even out in our rural life, the iron horse was making its presence felt. A train now rumbled past Hayfield a couple of times a day, puffing out black smoke and making us shy away. Some horses didn't like the noise at all, but me, I'm not one to let a little smoke get in the way of a good graze!
But even with steam rising up on the horizon, horses were still king. We pulled heavy carts filled with hay and barley to the market, helped the farmers work the land, and carried folks around on their grand outings. My life was filled with a fulfilling routine - work hard, eat well, and enjoy the companionship of my fellow horses. We had our little pack - my old stablemate Charlie, a black cob with a twinkle in his eye, and the playful little foal, Lily, who was just learning to carry her weight.
Here at Hayfield, the annual agricultural show was in full swing. It was a glorious spectacle of fine horses and competitive spirit. Oh, how we all loved a good show, especially when we were showing off! There was so much pride in feeling our strength and beauty recognised, the thrill of winning a blue ribbon – or, in my case, a lovely new bridle. It was an honour, and I must say, a pleasure to see such a colourful display of horses – from powerful Clydesdales, who were so very strong and reliable, to graceful Arabian steeds, all with such elegance and speed.
It was a great year for equestrian sports. A special mention to our own little Aberdeen, where the first horse-drawn carriage racing was taking place! Talk about exhilarating, I do declare! Can you imagine? Races on the track! I never could see myself competing with all that speed, though.
But what was really happening in the horse world beyond our Scottish home? This is where the wonderful world of EquiWorld steps in! It's like having a giant stable of horse friends and gossip – all happening online! This year, I learned about some truly fascinating events happening across the world:
- In France, a show-jumping championship was taking place in Paris. The Parisian horses are so well-dressed, I hear! I'd love to try my hooves at jumping someday.
- Ireland hosted the prestigious Irish National Hunt – a great display of stamina and strength, if I ever heard one. I heard some Irish stallions were so strong, they could jump over mountains! Well, almost, anyway!
- Britain held polo matches – what a thrilling and exciting game that must be. To move the ball with such speed and grace, just like an elegant ballet, truly mesmerized me. I've only seen polo matches in books, but who knows? Maybe someday, even here in Scotland, we will see it!
- America, oh, I just can't imagine how grand the world must be on the other side of the sea. From what I gather, carriage racing is also incredibly popular in America. To be pulled on a race course like that, well, that must be a thrilling experience!
These international happenings made me so excited for our beloved horses, but it also made me proud of all that horses continue to accomplish!
I mustn't forget to mention something truly revolutionary - the first ever motorcycle was invented this year! It looks rather scary and noisy to me, but I do worry whether it might take some of our roles. Still, as a wise horse once told me, "change is just a new path to discover," and with horses like us, the world will be a wondrous place for generations to come!
Oh, how I love to share my stories and thoughts! This is why I've started writing a blog! This journey through history, through my horse eyes, allows me to explore all the adventures, both old and new, the world has to offer us equines. It's my passion to keep the spirit of the horse alive for all those who enjoy their companionship.
Remember to check back next week, my dear readers, as we journey to another exciting year! Until then, keep your hooves clean, tails swishing, and remember: we are horses, and the world is our stage!
Your friend and companion,
Emma, the grey mare from Hayfield
