Neigh-sayers may think a horse like me, Emma, can’t be interested in the big happenings of the world. But let me tell you, with my long mane trailing in the wind and my big hooves hitting the ground, I have seen so much change happen. From the fields of Hayfield near Aberdeen, I am proud to tell you what is going on in our horse world for the year 1894.
A Breezy Day in Hayfield
My days start with the glorious sound of my owner, Alistair, calling for me. A good stretch, a playful nicker at my stable-mate, Bonnie, and we’re off! A quick bite of the most succulent, juicy oats and a splash of cool water and then we are ready to tackle the day. The air here in Hayfield is crisp, sometimes even a bit chilly, but it makes the feel of the sun on my coat extra special. We are a team, Alistair and I, a pair of greys, and together we make a fine sight against the backdrop of the rolling green hills and the deep blue Scottish sky.
It’s been quite a while since I last posted to Equiworld. A lot has been happening since 1890! It feels like yesterday I was a spirited youngster learning the ropes of being a work horse, pulling plows and transporting goods. Now, as I turn four, I’m not just a workhorse but also a keen observer of our horse world! From the thrill of the big city races to the quiet majesty of country lanes, there’s a lot to say about our life and I am thrilled to share it all with you, my fellow horses and our human companions!
The Queen's Diamond Jubilee
As the year 1894 dawns, everyone’s talking about The Queen. Well, everyone in the human world anyway! Our own little circle here in Hayfield is mostly focused on the weather and who got the most delicious hay last week. But in the world of horses and humans, The Queen is certainly a topic of great interest!
It is her Diamond Jubilee! The entire country is abuzz! My favourite thing to do with Alistair, besides my daily work, is to sit quietly and listen to his tales about his time serving as a page for Her Majesty back when he was younger. Now he can’t help but puff up his chest with pride every time the word “Queen” pops up! I wouldn't be surprised if Alistair would actually pull a whole cart up and down our local village with just a ribbon wrapped around his neck if it meant having a chance to meet her!
Of course, the Queen is not just a popular name; her influence reaches deep into the world of horses too.
From her private stables at Windsor to the big London shows, there is so much emphasis on the art of riding. The Queen’s horses, all perfectly turned out and elegantly trained, are seen as a sign of status, breeding, and grace. There is no doubt the horses, their beauty, and their agility contribute to a very special image, a legacy for our royal family! We are, after all, an inseparable part of the royal family history. We carry them to battle, transport them through grand palaces, and sometimes just stand there with regal silence as they celebrate with their people.
New Trends in Horses
But back to our lives. In our daily routines, I can feel that things are shifting even here in Hayfield. In the past few years, more and more horses have become part of the social life, joining families on daily excursions and rides in the countryside. My little nephew, a charming brown stallion named Henry, who lives next to Bonnie’s stable, is learning all about this "riding for pleasure" trend. He dreams of trotting beside a grand lady wearing a pretty dress and a tall hat on leisurely rides through the countryside! He is just as eager for new experiences as he is for new oat flakes. I suppose he will soon be venturing to those "riding for pleasure" clubs that are starting to pop up in cities. They say that people are beginning to favour "gentlemen's riding horses," horses that are trained not to work but to be gentle companions on elegant outings. This "gentlemen’s horse" trend seems to be spreading faster than a wild fire! I wonder how this new fashion will change our workhorse world! It is a little curious but, like a child looking through the fence at a new toy, I'm intrigued to watch this trend grow and see where it will lead.
A Race to Remember
The excitement doesn’t end in the fields of Hayfield! You know, there is more to our world than just pulling ploughs or carrying carts. Just imagine what a treat awaits us - an afternoon watching the greatest race in all of Britain: the Epsom Derby.
It was exhilarating, watching horses dash across the finish line with thunderous speed. You could feel the energy crackling in the air and I am sure everyone, human and horse alike, got goosebumps from that adrenaline!
Every year we gather, Bonnie, Alistair and I, at the pub on derby day and listen to the tales of that famous event, and what a great show they all put on this year. They were all amazing horses! They say some of the horses racing that day cost more than a whole farm! It’s a different world compared to our everyday lives here in Hayfield. Even so, watching them, sleek and powerful, running in that blur of colours and speed makes every heart beat faster!
A Word of Gratitude
Of course, the Derby is just one of many races happening across the country! Every county is home to some fantastic competitions! Every single day across our beautiful land, human and horse show their bond and love for the art of horsemanship. This is a special and beautiful world we live in. And for that, we are all grateful. We are thankful for the dedication of people like Alistair, who take such great care of us and keep our hooves healthy, our bellies full and our hearts strong.
And lastly, it is thanks to them that I can share my experience and my thoughts through websites like Equiwrold.org ! It’s a wonderful connection between the human world and our horse community.
Until next time, dear reader, may your hooves be firm, your spirits bright and your feed be plentiful!
Emma
