Good day, fellow equines, and welcome to another entry in my humble horse history blog! As a draught mare myself, I've always been fascinated by how our kind have shaped the world, from ancient chariots to modern show rings. This month, I’ll be exploring the world of horses in the year 1910 – a year of great progress and, of course, a year of grand challenges. Let me take you on a journey back in time, a trip from my home in Hayfield, near the rugged beauty of Aberdeen, Scotland.
My name is Emma, and as I mentioned before, I'm a handsome grey draught mare with a flowing mane and tail, as white as the fresh snow on a Scottish winter's morning. You see, 1910 wasn't too long ago! Back then, our kind still carried a great deal of responsibility. Imagine - I wasn't just a companion or a show pony; I was a valuable tool, a powerhouse pulling ploughs, carts, and even carriages. A good draught horse was worth their weight in gold.
Ah, 1910. I remember it vividly! There was an air of change, but also a familiar routine to our daily lives. In the morning, I would be harnessed, ready to begin the day's work. I wasn't pulling heavy farm equipment all the time, mind you! I hauled goods to the local market, delivered supplies, and even pulled the baker's cart for Mrs. MacDonald, the kind lady who always had an extra biscuit for me. She'd scratch me under the chin, whispering stories about her grandchildren. I often wondered, “Is life this good for horses everywhere?” I still carry her memory close to my heart, just like that extra biscuit.
In 1910, even our way of travel was closely connected to the horse. Yes, cars and motorcycles were gaining traction in some cities, but for many, the horse was still the trusted companion. Just picture this - carriages and buses pulling us through the streets, coaches transporting families to far-off lands. In many villages, horses even pulled fire engines! I know, right, exciting stuff! I can almost smell the smoke and feel the rush of adrenaline, even remembering this many years later!
But here’s the thing – horses weren’t only used for transportation. In those days, before electricity, we played a critical role in various industries. They were crucial for farms, mills, factories, even coal mines. Our strength and resilience were deeply interwoven into the fabric of daily life. You could say we were like little workhorses for our communities, playing a part in their progress.
Of course, horses weren’t just tools for humans; they also had a starring role in the realm of sport. We had racehorses, whose lightning speed ignited crowds; horses like me pulling farmers' ploughs; hunters gracefully leaping over fences; and cavalry horses performing amazing stunts, all to the cheering crowds! There was always a competition of skill and endurance, something which even my slow-moving, work-horse soul admired!
You see, while the world seemed to be changing fast in some areas, one thing stayed the same – the respect for a good, hard-working horse. But, a new wave was coming in! Technology was rising – new machinery began appearing in some farms. They would be replacing the tired and ageing farm horses, so some said! Even so, even I, in my gentle mare heart, felt a sense of optimism. If our strength could be appreciated and even celebrated in sports and competition, we could certainly find new roles, and contribute to our world even as the times changed.
What about the world outside Hayfield? This year saw many noteworthy events! 1910 witnessed the birth of the famous Clydesdale, a horse famous for its incredible size, beauty, and intelligence! The world is a place where good news, and new experiences abound, and a new breed was being introduced to the world – just imagine the adventures this fine, strong breed was bound to have.
I couldn’t talk about 1910 and its changing world without mentioning one other event – the famous “Royal Ascot,” which was being held in England this very year. A grand spectacle for horse racing, a whole new world was opening up for some of us! The world outside my humble home in Hayfield was fast-paced, and while I admired all the speed and thrill these races offered, I appreciated my own peaceful and busy days, with all my chores and friendships. It’s just in the nature of us horses – some like racing, and others like carrying hay in a quiet lane!
I suppose that's it for this month. But even now, as I reflect upon my adventures in this time, one thing remains certain: The relationship between humans and horses is a beautiful thing. And who knows? In a century from now, when someone looks back on the world in 2010, they might find themselves surprised at how our roles were shifting, our responsibilities evolving – even if, in many ways, they were still as fundamental to the human world. We might just be discovering a new future! Until next time, my friends.
Your faithful friend and blogger, Emma
*P.S. – *Do tell me your favourite horse memory. I would love to hear what you consider the greatest adventures in your equine lives! You can find me on EquiWorld – I will respond to all your comments, so don’t be shy, friends!
