Hayfield, Scotland - 624 AD
Greetings from Hayfield! My name is Emma, and I'm a grey draught mare, born with the most striking white mane and tail you could imagine. I am proud to say that at the ripe old age of twenty, I still hold my head high and enjoy life as a working mare. It’s a bit chilly here in the Highlands this morning. I woke up with a gentle breeze ruffling my mane, the frost still glistening on the grass. The sound of birds chirping, the smell of wood smoke from nearby farmhouses - I love the start of a crisp, autumn day here.
History's Journey
You may wonder why a horse like me, with a simple life, is writing a history blog! Well, as an old girl, I’ve seen many things over the years, from changes in the land to different ways of life. So, I decided to jot down a few of my observations for all you fellow horses out there.
I feel a bit like a time traveler, honestly. You see, this year is 624 AD! Think about it: that’s way back before all the modern tack and shiny stables, and even before the many grand breeds we see now. Back then, things were simpler, more… earthy, if you will. Most of my kin were like me: robust, strong draught horses, helping folks in all their daily tasks.
Farming Days in Hayfield
My life is pretty standard for a horse here in Hayfield, near Aberdeen. Every day is a beautiful mix of work and leisure. Mostly, I spend my time pulling plows and carts on Farmer Angus’ land, but that's not all. I also transport grain, pull stones from the quarries, and help to fetch supplies from the nearest market. We all help to make this little community thrive, working in harmony with each other. The other mares and I sometimes get to rest on the grassy hills overlooking the North Sea. Those days, we simply watch the sun sink into the water, a deep golden hue that paints the whole sky. It’s magnificent!
A Glance at the World Beyond Hayfield
Now, although my days here are pretty typical for a horse, I must say there are rumblings about exciting developments happening across the seas. The people here are talking about “The Silk Road”. I understand that it is a vast network of trade routes spanning far and wide, connecting people and goods from Asia to Europe! Can you imagine that? Such an intricate connection!
Now, while my daily life is tied to the fields and roads of Scotland, it’s intriguing to imagine these exotic lands, with their different breeds of horses, each with their own unique stories and uses. Just thinking about it sets my heart galloping with curiosity.
My Horse-Whisperer Friend
The folks here in Hayfield are truly good to us horses, I’ll give them that. Farmer Angus is kind and understanding, and his young daughter, Maggie, is simply a darling. She visits me every evening and often helps to brush my mane. She whispers all about the tales she reads in her books, and sometimes she sings beautiful melodies to me, about brave knights and valiant horses that go on amazing adventures. I love it when Maggie comes by. Her heart is pure and bright, and she brings such warmth to the farm with her love for all creatures. She always seems to have an answer to my unspoken questions.
“Why do you think horses are so important, Emma?” She asks me one evening. We are enjoying the last rays of the sun, nestled amongst a grove of willow trees. She is humming a tune while brushing my mane.
"Hmm, why indeed, Maggie?" I respond, stretching my neck out in a quiet groan of pleasure. "I think we horses represent freedom. The ability to journey far, to help people carry out their duties, to experience life's vastness. I guess, in a way, we're kind of like bridges, connecting people, lands, and cultures.”
Her eyes twinkle as she gazes at me, her touch gentle and soothing. "I think you’re right, Emma. Horses like you are truly special. You hold the spirit of the wild within your heart, but are also a beacon of loyalty and strength."
Her words bring a warmth to my soul. They echo the truth within me. And even though we may be simple horses living a simple life, our very presence holds meaning and purpose.
Keeping Things Interesting
But back to life in Hayfield! Now, the autumn harvest is in full swing, which means it's getting pretty busy around here! It's also the time when all the local villages host the yearly Horse Fairs. Those are always exciting days. We get to meet new horses and people, learn about the latest horse breeds, and, if we're lucky, maybe even get a brand new pair of shoes or a bit of extra food.
As much as I love helping out on the farm, sometimes a little social life is quite a welcome change! And I enjoy the camaraderie among my equine peers, we learn so much from each other. We talk about the best grazing grounds, discuss the most helpful farmhands, and share tales about adventures beyond our Hayfield community.
It truly is amazing to live amongst such diverse, wise, and resilient horses.
A Note to my Equi-Friends
Well, that’s all for today, friends! Hope this short post provided you with a glimpse into the life of a horse living in the 7th century. I'll continue writing to share more stories from our historical world and I hope it inspires all of you to reflect upon your own equine journeys, be they grand and adventurous or simple and humble like mine. It's truly our collective stories that shape the tapestry of our equine history. And it's with the sharing of these tales that we honour the spirit and legacy of horses throughout time.
Until next time, keep your tails high and hooves steady, my fellow horses!
-Emma
Please leave a comment on EquiWorld with your thoughts on life for horses in this time period. Or tell me about your experiences as a working horse! What are the highlights of your day?
