History of Horses in the year 0351

Ahoy there, fellow equestrians!

Emma here, a spirited grey draught mare from the bonnie highlands of Hayfield, near Aberdeen in Scotland. It's a fine morning here, the heather blooming purple, the air crisp and the sun shining brightly. The smell of peat smoke drifts from the nearby village and a wee lamb bleats nearby, its mama sheep keeping a watchful eye. This peaceful scene inspires me to share with you some of the wonders of horse history – and wouldn’t you know it, we're entering the year 351. So, let's trot back in time and see what exciting events unfolded for our equine brethren!

The year 351 finds Britain firmly under the Roman Empire’s rule. Now, I can't say I’m terribly keen on being "ruled" - my personal opinion on the matter is firmly in the “neigh” camp! But I have to admit, these Romans have brought with them a wealth of things that are shaping how horses are used throughout the land. They brought new horse breeds like the nimble Iberian and the strong, swift North African horse - a far cry from the sturdy, shaggy ponies I call family. And, oh, the saddles! The Roman saddles are a delightful improvement upon the simple padded blankets used by the local Britons.

Imagine my surprise when I first encountered Roman cavalry charging through the countryside! Their disciplined movements, the sharp commands, the sound of the iron-shod hooves hitting the ground - truly a sight to behold. And not just the cavalry - they utilise horses for a vast array of tasks. From carrying heavy loads in wagons to patrolling the borders, horses are instrumental in the functioning of the Roman empire. And you know what they say - "All roads lead to Rome," and most of them seem to be traversed by our brethren.

351 was a turbulent year. While the Roman Empire held sway, tensions simmered within its own borders, as did its frontiers. The horse became both a symbol of unity and a tool for conflict. Imagine galloping across battlefields, the clash of swords, the pounding drums of war - a dramatic scene indeed! Yet, I also know horses were integral in transporting vital supplies to feed the people and in hauling agricultural produce to feed the masses.

There’s another side to horses in the year 351 – a gentle side. The Roman’s brought with them a focus on harnessing the power of the horse in agriculture, utilising our strength to plow fields, to cultivate crops. They taught the Britons new ways to train their horses and to build carts for transport, all vital components in shaping the landscape of the era. They’re quite clever those Romans, but alas, we don’t always agree on everything.

Speaking of clever people, you must be curious to learn about my home, Hayfield. It’s a small village nestled by the North Sea, the air here salty and invigorating. Our village lives off the bounty of the sea and the richness of the surrounding highlands. Our lives are simple, fuelled by the rhythm of nature, and the sturdy Highland ponies share their home with the locals. We share our lives in an intricate dance, the ponies strong and steadfast, carrying people, hauling loads, and providing milk and meat for sustenance. It’s a way of life that I hold close to my heart.

Every day is a learning experience for us. As a young horse, I've learnt the art of hauling fishing nets along the coast, the careful steps on the craggy cliffs, the delicate maneuvers to navigate the winding pathways. My father, a wise and stoic stallion, taught me to carry loads for farmers, the feel of the harness on my neck, the comforting warmth of the plough behind me. He tells me stories of when he was young and the Britons worshipped the wild ponies who roamed the highlands. Those ponies, he says, were strong, independent, and deeply connected with their wild ancestry. This echoes deep within me - the strength of the spirit, the wildness that stirs within us.

There’s something almost magical about horses in the year 351, you see? The Britons often revere us in their tales and legends. They weave our power and resilience into stories of heroic warriors and benevolent gods. They view us as beings of great strength and wisdom. We are depicted on their carvings, a part of their myths and traditions, their art reflecting a deep respect for our place in their world. The horse has become a part of the very soul of the nation.

Back here in Hayfield, we still share our lives closely with the earth and the natural world. My best friend is a sturdy grey mare called Rowan. We've grown up together, galloping across the hills, snorting playfully, and sharing the quiet joys of the rolling meadows. We graze in fields where wild flowers bloom in abundance, the scent intoxicating, and our hearts resonate with the pulse of the land. It is in these moments, when nature is vibrant and our hearts beat as one, that we feel the most connected - to the earth, to our own beings, and to each other. We’ve learnt a profound lesson through this life, dear readers, that nature’s beauty and grace lies within simplicity and connection.

I don’t know what lies ahead for the world, but one thing I am sure of, our story continues. As we gallop forward through the ages, our tale weaves itself into the tapestry of history, our legacy etched in the heart of civilisation. Horses - our strength, our agility, our gentle nature, all intertwine to shape the world. And as I stand here, gazing upon the heather and the sea, I am humbled by this gift of life, this profound connection with nature, and with the human world.

Until next time, keep your saddles firm and your spirits high!

With Love, Emma

PS: Remember, www.equiworld.org is here for you to share your stories, to learn and to celebrate our amazing equine heritage. Please write to me or share your thoughts – your words inspire me just as much as you all inspire me to keep sharing the magic of horses throughout the ages!