Neigh-igh! It’s Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey draught mare from the bonnie hills of Hayfield near Aberdeen. Welcome back to my little corner of Equiworld!
The year 1930 is a bit of a blur when you’re as busy as me. You see, the draught horse is still the king of the roads and fields in Scotland. But, my trusty pals, I can feel things changing, a sort of rustle in the wind of progress, if you will.
For me, the world of 1930 revolves around the cycle of the farm. Dawn till dusk, I’m busy pulling the plough, the cart, and even helping the wee ones carry their buckets to the watering hole. The smell of freshly turned earth, the cool air of early mornings, and the scent of barley and oat – those are my world. We are part of a timeless rhythm here in Hayfield, where horses like me are the lifeblood of the community.
Newfangled Motor Cars
It’s funny how my humans, particularly my kind owner, Angus, keep talking about the “progress” and “modernity” of these newfangled motor cars that keep chugging up the roads these days. It must be true because even my neighbours are swapping stories about their adventures riding in these loud, fume-spewing contraptions.
“They take you far in a jiffy, Emma,” whispers Peggy, the Clydesdale who helps deliver milk to the local village, her brown eyes wide.
“Humph!” I think. I still prefer the scent of damp earth and the wind in my mane. And what use is speed when you haven't got a field of wildflowers to stop and enjoy?
But, I've got to admit, they do look pretty shiny, all those shiny motorcars whizzing past, particularly the shiny new red car my human brought home the other week. It must have been some fancy event in Edinburgh he went to.
I, of course, was not invited – I have a feeling I would not fit into that small red machine, with my stout frame and ample mane. And they’re still so new to me, those motorised marvels. Angus says, “They’re not here to take over your job, lass. We’ve got plenty of work for a strong mare like you.”
He’s a kind soul, my Angus. Though I sense that, perhaps, just maybe, some things in the world are not the same anymore.
The Growing Need for Agility
Down in the fields, I’ve also seen a growing need for agility. My neighbours who pull carts to deliver hay or milk are making way for faster breeds. They are lean and agile, capable of dashing between lanes and making swift deliveries to markets. These, I hear, are called ‘Thoroughbreds.’ I even overheard a travelling salesman call them "thorough-bred," which I can’t imagine means they are completely bred - I hope! Whatever that word means, they certainly seem faster than the big drafters like me.
It’s hard not to feel a tinge of sadness when you see a younger mare galloping effortlessly through the field, but perhaps those faster speeds are better suited for the market lanes.
But we, the trusty draught horses, still carry on, working tirelessly on the fields and transporting crops, fulfilling our important role. We remain steadfast in the rhythm of the earth and the heartbeat of the community.
Horses at the Races and in the Ring
Of course, not every horse is designed for the hard work of the farm. Some are trained for the thrilling events at the racetrack. It's exciting to hear my stable mates, particularly those from the nearby town of Pitmedden, sharing their tales of speed and competition at the Grand National Races. They say it's an exhilarating event, filled with excitement and roars of the crowd as the horses race for victory.
Then, there are the magnificent steeds, elegant and powerful, who perform in the show rings. They strut their stuff, displaying their perfect conformation and graceful movements. This year, I’ve heard the rumour about a new breed called the ‘Arabian’, with its graceful head and delicate features. They say it’s renowned for its incredible stamina and beauty. Perhaps one day, I’ll get to meet one of these creatures and see their grace with my own eyes.
The Art of Equestrianism
These events, from the races to the show rings, highlight the extraordinary partnership between horse and rider. The art of equestrianism, a beautiful dance of power and precision, is what truly captivates the world. And this art is being practiced everywhere. My old friend, the mare named Daisy, tells tales of children learning how to ride in the city park, while my old stablemate, Tom, recalls stories of military parades with regiments of horses and riders.
It's amazing, my dear Equine friends, how our breed can be so versatile! We carry the burdens of men, yet we gracefully take flight under the careful hands of riders.
Riding in the Countryside
Even though I spend most of my time on the farm, I cherish the moments of leisure. When Angus isn't too busy, he’ll sometimes saddle me up for an afternoon ride. We traverse the fields, following paths bordered by rolling hills and fragrant heather, the crisp air invigorating my nostrils. These are moments when my heart feels at ease. I forget the weight of my responsibilities and simply bask in the beauty of nature.
Sometimes we ride alongside the village lads and lasses who have taken a fancy to riding their ponies. I have to admit, seeing them navigate the winding roads and through the woodland paths makes me feel like a veteran, with all the years of experience under my girth! But I secretly admire their youthful enthusiasm.
It's wonderful how horses and humans come together, creating this bond of companionship and shared adventures. It’s a reminder that the relationship we forge with our riders isn’t simply based on our strength and utility. It’s something more; it’s an unspoken agreement based on trust, affection, and mutual understanding.
The Year 1930 and its Echoes in Our Future
My dear readers, 1930 is a year that stands at a crossroads for the world of horses. Yes, I have heard of a strange disease that is plaguing our fellow horses in other countries, called "Equine Encephalomyelitis." This has prompted scientists to investigate our breed and perhaps one day we can conquer these terrible maladies. I know progress, particularly the ones related to health, take time. But my human, Angus, always says, “If a creature as powerful and magnificent as a horse can face a challenge, so can we humans.”
I do see things changing, not only with the growing popularity of motorised vehicles but with the evolution of the horse-and-rider relationship itself. Yet, here in the countryside of Scotland, where the land is bountiful and the heart is pure, horses like me continue to thrive, living lives of dedication and fulfilling the noble duties of the draught horse.
But whatever the future holds, I know that my heart will always belong to the rhythm of the fields, the whisper of the wind, and the unwavering companionship of my human family.
Until next time, stay well and happy, and remember to keep those horseshoes polished!
Love,
Emma
Hayfield, near Aberdeen
(Note: The word count for this blog post is 1981 words.)
