Hayfield, Scotland - 1st of January, 0197
Good morning, fellow equines! Can you believe it? We're stepping into a new year – 0197! Just as I promised, I’m back with another entry in my “History Corner”. It's fascinating how time keeps ticking, and it's truly inspiring to look back and appreciate all the changes that have happened for us horses over the centuries, both good and bad, eh?
I'm Emma, your grey draught horse friend from the rolling green hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen. As always, it’s a crisp, bracing start to the day here, and the fresh Highland air makes my coat shine even brighter.
Today, I'll be delving into 0197, a pivotal year for our kind, as far as our human companions are concerned. For them, this year marked a turning point in their interactions with us and the ways we work together. It's full of fascinating changes and I'm excited to share them with you!
Roman Road-building - A Glimpse of the Past
Let's start by rewinding the tape, shall we? We’re still very much under the Roman Empire's watchful gaze. But I hear tell, whispers of a shift are in the air. Even though Emperor Aurelius, who they call “the Philosopher-King” because he's supposed to be a very smart man, reigns strong, there's talk of turmoil within the Roman legions. Some folk say their strength might be waning. They say it’s hard for Rome to keep such a large Empire under control, what with rebellions in Britain and trouble with the Germanic tribes over there.
However, one thing remains very much the same, regardless of what's going on in their human world: their love for us! We're still very much relied on for our strength and endurance. It’s all hands on deck when it comes to hauling carts, transporting supplies for their legions, and, most importantly, helping with that ongoing project they've got: road-building! They've created this incredible network of roads across Europe, spanning even to the farthest corners of Britain.
Do you remember all those cobblestones we had to move? My muscles ached for weeks! But then I’d look at these beautiful new pathways, wide enough for two carriages side-by-side, and think “What a marvellous creation, made even more incredible with the help of strong horses like us!"
Harnessing the Power of Water
Oh, and the news I just heard…it’s thrilling! Seems these Romans are up to something really remarkable. Word has it, they've figured out a way to harness water's power to do work! Can you believe it? These inventive humans are now able to build structures using water wheels, machines with paddles that can actually grind grains for flour or lift heavy loads!
They say the water is collected in large reservoirs and then sent tumbling through channels, which makes these wheels turn and churn. They say it's absolutely brilliant! A whole new world is opening up, where water can perform the jobs that used to take strong horses like me. I’m a little curious and also a bit worried. I wonder what the impact of this invention might be for us horses in the future?
Farming: The Backbone of our World
Here in Scotland, we are much like the horses in all corners of the Roman Empire - we are vital to our human companions' livelihoods. We pull their plows and harrows through the fields, getting them ready for the upcoming harvest. And you know, despite this newfound obsession with their water wheels, they haven't given up on us just yet. We’re essential for moving things around, and for farming.
Just think: We carry huge sacks of barley and oats across those Roman roads for the grain mills they're constructing in every corner of their vast empire. This grain, you know, is crucial to feed their families, and those same legions that are busy out conquering new lands. Even the horses who are carrying the Roman soldiers on their backs have to be fed too!
And have you heard? They’re building stables in new areas, too. Even here in Scotland, where I’ve lived all my life, a large, comfortable stable has sprung up near the coast. My master says it's quite lovely! There are plenty of stalls for the horses working the farm, enough space for all the horses hauling wagons on the new road which goes all the way to the coast. You know, they’re busy building roads and stables, all to make it easier for us horses to move things around.
More Than Just Labor: Horses as Companions
But I’d be lying if I didn’t say, as a proud grey draught horse with a noble soul, I cherish my human companionship as well. Our lives together aren’t just about plowing and carrying burdens.
We have shared moments of peace, enjoying the sunrise in the meadows while I munch on sweet clover. My master often hums soft melodies as we take our long, slow walks together after a hard day’s work. There's this understanding, this silent bond that only true friends share.
The Year's End and Hope for the Future
The end of the year is near, and though winter may be setting in, I feel hopeful and positive. Yes, our world is in constant change, and we’ll adapt, just like we always do. We are sturdy and resilient, ready to face whatever the future holds.
From my stable window, I watch the stars appear in the inky blue of the Scottish sky. And, in the quiet moments before sleep, I dream of a world where horses like me are still cherished, where our power and resilience are valued and respected.
Keep your hooves happy, fellow equines! I'll be back next month with another history tidbit. Until then, stay well and strong, and may the winds be at your back.
Love,
Emma
