By Emma, a Grey Draught Mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen
Good afternoon, dear readers! It’s Emma here, writing from my lovely, if somewhat muddy, stable in Hayfield. It’s a crisp Autumn day here in Scotland, the kind that makes the air sharp and your breath puff out in little white clouds. As I write, a light drizzle is falling, but that doesn't stop me from thinking about all the wonderful things happening in the world of horses this year, 1944!
You know, as a mare of some experience, I’ve seen a lot of changes in the world of horses, particularly since the war began. Today, I want to share with you my observations on how the equine world is adapting, thriving, and playing such a vital role in the great human struggles.
War Work: Horses of Steel and Spirit
Ah, the war! I can still remember when it began in 1939, the buzz of anxiety that spread like wildfire through the stables. Every horse, whether sleek thoroughbred or sturdy working breed like myself, knew the world was shifting. Soon enough, our strength and resilience were put to the test. We were called upon, like loyal knights of old, to become a part of the effort to bring peace back to the world.
We hauled heavy loads – munitions, supplies, even wounded soldiers. Our strength helped the Allied forces in ways no machine could. We were the silent, sturdy backbone of so many battles. In my heart, I felt the shared grief of those lost, the pain of witnessing the destruction. But also, there was an undercurrent of unity, a shared commitment to our duty.
Just yesterday, I saw a column of weary horses come back from the front lines, their coats covered in dust and their faces lined with exhaustion. But despite everything, their eyes still shone with determination, their step never faltered. They returned as heroes, carrying on the vital role that makes horses so essential to humanity, in times of both war and peace.
From Farms to the Battlefield: A Mare’s Journey
My journey to the battlefield wasn't a glamorous one. Like most drafthorses, I was bred to work. Here in the Highlands, my life revolved around hauling ploughs, pulling carts, and delivering produce. One cold winter day, a gruff-faced officer arrived at my stable, with a stern look but eyes full of appreciation for the strength we embodied. We were sent to the training camps, where we learned new skills and how to be soldiers ourselves. I met others from different parts of the country, and we all learned to pull together, quite literally!
Those months were tough. I'll never forget the first time I felt the ground tremble under the pounding of the artillery, the sound like thunder, the smell of gunpowder a bitter taste in my nostrils. But I stood my ground, for my riders relied on me. It was then, in that fearful, chaotic landscape, I felt a connection to the men I worked alongside, and a growing determination to do my part, to support the brave men and women who sacrificed everything to fight for a brighter future.
New Breed of Horses, Old Values: The Spirit of Equestrianism Lives On
While war may seem to dominate the world's thoughts and emotions, the spirit of equestrianism is alive and well. Here at Hayfield, we often have competitions amongst the farm horses. Last month, a young chestnut stallion named “Prince” (such an arrogant fellow!) took home the coveted blue ribbon for best jumping skills. My neighbour's filly, a sweet, skittish mare named Poppy, was awarded the most gentle and cooperative trophy. These little events, despite the sombre backdrop of war, remind me that life carries on, and with it, the human spirit’s love for horses continues to bloom.
Racing Through Troubled Times
I’ve always been a fan of a good race. My cousins down south in Newmarket, pure thoroughbreds bred for speed, write to me about the famous races they've run, the triumphs and losses, the thrilling heartbeats under the cheering crowds. Despite the wartime scarcity and limitations, the love for the sport hasn't waned. They’re a testament to the resilience of the equine world and the unwavering love we have for racing.
Even with these restrictions, stories of champions reaching legendary status continue to echo throughout the world. A young mare named “Fleetwood” recently broke the record for the fastest time on the Epsom Downs. What a talent! Just reading about these victories, even though I can’t personally participate, fills my heart with pride, knowing that the thrill of the race lives on.
Beyond the Battlefield: Horses of Healing and Hope
While we stand shoulder to shoulder with the soldiers, the gentle strength of the horse continues to benefit humanity in other, less dramatic, ways. I hear tales of horses bringing joy and comfort to children in hospitals, even to war-torn communities, reminding us that we horses hold a deep, quiet well of strength, offering a unique solace to those who need it most.
Recently, a young woman wrote to me about her experiences in a London hospital. She had been injured in a bombing, her legs shattered. But when she received a visit from a grey dappled mare named “Honey,” her despair shifted to wonder. “Honey’s” gentle warmth, the way she nudged the woman's hand, reminded her of the world’s goodness. I’ll admit, a tear welled up in my eye as I read those words, a feeling that mirrored my own commitment to serving a higher purpose beyond our own strength and duty.
Horses in the World, A Collective Effort
This year, 1944, has been challenging. But I have felt, like a mighty, invisible force, the connection between us all, between every horse across the globe. From the battlefields of France to the fields of our Highland farm, the resilient spirit of horses prevails.
Whether we work hard to produce food, serve as messengers, help those who are ill, or gallop for glory in a race, we stand tall, our heartbeats drumming a message of strength and resilience, an invisible thread connecting each one of us, the very essence of equine purpose. The world has faced darkness and hardship, but there is always light in the world. As long as we horses are present, the spirit of strength and hope will continue to beat within us all.
I am Emma, a humble mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen. Until next time, readers! Remember to stay well, to be kind, and to keep the spirit of hope alive in your heart. For in our hearts, lies the very essence of our beautiful bond with humanity.
