History of Horses in the year 0618

Equine Chronicles #618: A Year of Strides in 618!

Neigh-sayers be gone!

It's Emma here, your trusty grey mare with the whitest mane and tail this side of the Scottish Highlands! Today, I'm taking you back in time to 618 AD, a year that wasn't too long ago in equine history, especially for a filly like me. It's been a good year so far, filled with the usual ups and downs, a good gallop in the fields, and plenty of juicy hay.

Now, you all know I love to chat about our four-legged history on this little corner of EquiWorld, so let's saddle up and journey back to the time of strong, stoic horses who carried kings and queens, helped cultivate the land, and fought bravely alongside brave knights!

Life on the Farm in Hayfield, Scotland

So, you see, 618 AD found me at a stable in a place called Hayfield, near Aberdeen. Yes, it's a lovely place, the air smells of salt and heather, and the landscape stretches out as far as the eye can see! It’s not too different from how it is today, which is nice! Back then, things were a little different in the wider world, though.

This time period saw a lot of changes across the British Isles. Think battles, kings, and the beginning of powerful kingdoms! Over here in Scotland, we saw the birth of the kingdom of Dalriada, with its strong Celtic roots and rulers. That meant a lot of royal carriages needed to be pulled, not to mention all those travelling merchants and visitors to the new capital of Dunadd!

We were part of it, you know? Every now and then, a young nobleman, a farmer with wares, or a messenger on an urgent errand would come by Hayfield looking for a sturdy horse. And of course, the horses on this farm were up to the task. Strong and steady, just like me! My uncles, you know, those huge dappled Percherons - they had to pull wagons carrying goods through these often harsh landscapes. Their backs were always straight, and their steps never faltered! It makes me feel proud to be part of such a strong family!

Across the Borders: A Year of Change

Our good King Æthelberht was the ruler of all the kingdoms across the Thames in the south of England in 618. A quiet man, he was but that makes him no less powerful. Our world was very much affected by his policies. You know how much trade those good people on the other side of the border rely on!

This is the year where a lot of focus was on a new way of travelling – a road system! No longer just paths winding through the countryside, these roads made it easier for us horses to pull carts carrying things, bringing together communities across the land. You could say it was like a big highway for us horses!

It also meant we horses were very, very busy, going to market to deliver provisions and even taking priests, messengers, and even pilgrims to churches! Our work never ends, but you know I love that. Each day is an adventure for me.

Horses in History

A horse’s job back in those times was so varied, too! Many of our kind helped farmers grow their crops by ploughing the land.

You wouldn't believe the power those heavy horses needed to turn over the soil! Strong arms are one thing, but nothing compares to a mighty Clydesdale or a Shire, I tell you. My uncle, that Percheron I told you about, he often tells tales of ploughing through fields until sunset. Those old fellas work hard and deserve all the thanks for that good hay! I hope one day to be as strong as them, though my role might be less hard-working, but that's fine!

Oh! And we mustn't forget the cavalry! Yes, knights would sit proudly atop their horses, clad in shining armour. Their steeds, usually more nimble and swift than my hefty draught horse friends, were brave and loyal warriors, a mighty sight to behold! I've seen many a tale told by the blacksmith here. Apparently, some of those knights are not as good as others.

The more skilled, brave knights rode beautiful and elegant steeds – often Arabians, with their flowing manes and incredible speed. Some would even race in tournaments – quite an impressive show! And these horses were known for their bravery! Imagine! I'm proud to be a horse; a real hero.

618: The Beginning of Something New!

In those days, there was so much to discover and experience. Even from here in our stable, I felt a growing sense of progress, and as always, the horse played a big part. I may just be a humble grey mare, but I feel lucky to be a part of it all!

618 was a year full of change and development. People are always trying to innovate and improve. There are constant new demands for the hard work that us horses bring to the table, you know? As always, our history as horses is rich with stories of hard work, dedication, and most importantly, an undying bond with our human companions! I hope this post brought some history to life, showing just how essential our horses were to everything that went on in this fascinating world we all share!

Remember, if you love horses and their amazing story, share your thoughts, ask questions, and don't forget to keep on learning with us. Until next time, stay happy, and remember, there's no place quite like home for a tired, happy horse like myself. Neigh!

Emma out!

History of Horses in the year 0618