Hello everyone! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood horse historian, and welcome to another post. It's always a pleasure to share with you what I’ve uncovered about our equine ancestors and how our wonderful species has changed through the ages.
I've got to tell you, I’m finding myself increasingly fascinated by this period - around the year 528 AD, it's like the calm before the storm, when the Roman Empire has faded but Europe is finding its footing in new ways. It's not without its challenges, of course, but it feels, well, relatively peaceful… relatively, anyway.
You see, right now, things are pretty stable around my neck of the woods. My little home in Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland is thriving, with the sun glinting off the Scottish Highlands every morning, warming my grey coat. I’m the big strong draught mare, responsible for hauling everything from goods to firewood. My human family relies on me and treats me very well indeed. In fact, today they’re giving me the afternoon off, which means a relaxing roll in the clover, maybe even a good nap under the apple tree. Life is good.
A Little Bit About the History… and Some Big Horses!
You know, life was interesting around the year 528 AD. Imagine…the Roman Empire had gone, and Europe was settling down to make new empires and kingdoms, and things seemed a bit uncertain, wouldn't you say? The big thing was… people wanted peace. Not just between humans, but between all living creatures. It was a time for growth and prosperity… and the big strong horses who worked the fields had a lot to do with that.
They’re our big workhorse cousins: the Shire, the Clydesdale, and the Percheron - massive, powerful horses with massive hearts. And the really interesting thing is, horses like this were already hard at work around Europe during 528. Their strength helped build monasteries, cathedrals and roads – those wonderful monuments you can see around Europe even today.
For me, this is such a wonderful image: a community pulling together with horses leading the way… working hard for a shared purpose. That’s what it felt like then: strong and steady and dedicated to working together for a shared purpose.
Not All Work and No Play, Though
Don't think horses back then were only about working, though. The year 528 is full of great examples of how horses played a crucial part in peoples’ lives.
- A Trip To the Races: The Gallop into Life's Joys
The Romans may have been gone, but their passion for chariot racing continued…though the chariot racing went through a huge transformation during 528! People wanted exciting new forms of competition where horses’ strength and endurance mattered, but where their skill and speed shone above everything else. This marked the birth of mounted cavalry. You see, it's so thrilling watching riders leap into battle… an absolutely inspiring spectacle to see. I hear they're a bit fierce! I’ve never really wanted to get caught up in all that chaos, but it is exciting to think how it all started.
- Trading, Commerce and the World of Equines
You know what else happened in 528 AD? The big, bold world of horse trading flourished, too. Just like today, you can get your hands on some pretty incredible horses… even faraway horses with unique abilities, making trade networks stronger across Europe. Horses, of course, were at the heart of these trade routes. Think of it, dear readers: long lines of horses carrying cargo to distant places… carrying important things that could have a great impact on people’s lives and relationships, carrying ideas… even hope. It feels pretty amazing when you think of it.
* A Time for Sharing, Caring… and A Touch of Wisdom from an Older Horse *
I find it comforting to know that the world of horses continued to thrive in the year 528. It wasn't just about the grandeur of those huge draught horses or the excitement of chariot races, although, it was really important in shaping people's lives.
It was also about everyday living... a time of working alongside people in simple things... helping farmers cultivate the land, hauling water, carrying loads… small tasks, perhaps, but essential.
That’s how I feel as well. Each morning, when the rooster calls me to wake up and the day stretches out before me, I'm filled with anticipation of the beautiful day. It's a day where I will bring joy, a day for bringing hope and light to others. And sometimes… when you’re walking down the country lanes and the scent of wild thyme lingers on the wind, it reminds me that we’re part of something very big indeed.
This period of history seems to have brought the human and the horse worlds even closer. It reminds me that in any time… even 528 years ago or even now, it's always about collaboration… about humans understanding that the well-being of horses is part of what it means to create a stronger, more beautiful world.
Keeping It Real and Honouring The Equine Family
This period, from my perspective, is like a little pocket of time where humans and horses had a close partnership, which seems quite fitting. And it reminds me of the beauty and joy in everyday things…
But then, that’s what I love about being a horse, don’t you think? I get to see the world from the perspective of my four hooves… and find a magic and beauty that sometimes others miss.
But I don’t just love horses - I want to understand all the horses who have gone before. They’re part of what it means to be a horse, and part of our amazing heritage.
I love you all. Be sure to let me know what you find most fascinating. I am so glad you joined me on this journey…
I’ll be back soon to tell you more about history's beautiful journey, and maybe, just maybe…I’ll even give you a little insight into the wonderful life of a grey mare with a long white mane, here in Scotland.
Until next time, take care…
Yours truly,
Emma (Your Equine Historian)
