Working Horses Collection

Ploughing DIX02_01_081
Horse-team ploughing under the shadow of the Dyke, 1930s. The dyke may be the Devils Dyke near Brighton, or Offas Dyke on the Welsh/English borders

Taunton Vale, Somersetshire, pub. 1822. Creator: Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827)
Taunton Vale, Somersetshire, from Sketches from Nature, published 1822 (coloured etching). A loaded horse-drawn covered wagon passes by an isolated pub, called the Royal Oak, in Taunton Vale, Somerset

A farmer and his team of horses ploughing a field. 1939

Annual Horse Fair, Jerez de la Frontera, Cadiz Province, Andalusia, Spain

A man walks a horse out of the stables. 1936

A horse enters an arena. 1936

A team of four houses ploughing a large field in the background is a pylon. 1936

A farmer using a team of horses to pull a harrow across his field. 1935

A team of four houses ploughing a large field in Kent. 1935

A farmer and his team of horses plough a fruit orchard. 1935

A farmer and his team of horses plough a field. 1935

A farmer and his team of horses pull the roller across a field planted with oats. 1936

A farmer using a horse to pull a harrow across his field. 1936

A farmer and his team of horses harrow a field. 1935

A farmer workers ploughs a field with horses pulling the ploughs. 1935

Whitbreads hop farm in Belting, Kent. People cueing up at the onsite milk bar. 1938

A farmer using a horse drawn machine to spread fertilizer on a field. 1939

A farmer ploughing a field with a tractor. Alongside are old cars which have been parked in order to cause obstruction to enemy gliders carrying invasion troops which may want to land on the field

A farmer and his team of horses ploughing a field in Kent. 1939

Horses drinking at pond, 1932
Photograph by George Garland Garland Collection West Sussex Record Office Ref No: Garland N5797

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Working horses have been an integral part of agricultural practices throughout history. From ploughing fields to pulling harrows, these magnificent creatures have played a vital role in shaping the landscape and sustaining communities. In the picturesque countryside of Somersetshire, dating back to 1822, Thomas Rowlandson captured the essence in his artwork titled "Taunton Vale. " The image portrays a farmer and his team diligently tilling the soil, showcasing their strength and determination. Moving forward to 1935, John Topham's photographs depict farmers harnessing the power of horses to plough vast fields. These hardworking animals tirelessly navigate through furrows while a towering pylon stands tall in the background - a symbol of progress juxtaposed against traditional farming methods. The Annual Horse Fair held in Jerez de la Frontera, Cadiz Province, Andalusia is another testament to the enduring legacy of working horses. This vibrant event brings together horse enthusiasts from all walks of life who gather to celebrate these noble creatures' contributions. Stepping into 1936, we witness not only their involvement in agriculture but also their participation in various arenas. A man leads a horse out of stables with purposeful strides while another horse gracefully enters an arena - both ready for whatever task lies ahead. Kent's Whitbreads hop farm provides yet another glimpse into how they were utilized on farms. Here, amidst kilns where hops are dried for brewing purposes, teams consisting of four powerful equines effortlessly plough large fields under sunny skies. These captivating scenes remind us that despite technological advancements like tractors entering our lives during this era; there was still immense value placed upon utilizing these majestic animals as partners in labor-intensive tasks on farms across different regions. As we reflect upon these images frozen in time and honor the dedication displayed by both humans and horses alike; let us appreciate their unwavering commitment towards cultivating bountiful harvests and preserving traditions that have shaped our agricultural heritage.