The Scottish Horseman Society was a secretive protectionist movement associated with Scotland’s arable areas and the cult of the horseman’s word. Founded in the early 1800s, the society was a brotherhood of specialist farm servants known as horsemen who possessed unique skills in handling horses and livestock. Their rituals and practices were inspired by medieval trades organizations like the stonemasons, and members were sworn to secrecy through initiation ceremonies. The society’s influence began to decline after the First World War due to the introduction of tractors and the rise of the Scottish Farm Servants Union, which prioritized the rights and conditions of all farm workers. By the 1920s, the horsemen society had become increasingly irrelevant as mechanization and economic forces reshaped the agriculture industry, leading to the eventual demise of both the society and traditional working horses in Scotland.
Unveiling the Secrets of the Scottish Farm Horsemen Society
Welcome to the mysterious world of the Scottish Farm Horsemen Society – a secretive protectionist movement that traces its roots back to the early 1800s in Scotland’s principal arable areas. Associated with the cult of the Horseman’s Word, this society has long been shrouded in secrecy and intrigue.
My personal encounter with the Horseman Society dates back to 1984 when I had the privilege of meeting retired farm horseman Jock Hebern. As we delved into discussions about farm horses, Jock made a cryptic acknowledgment that hinted at my knowledge of these majestic animals. It was my first glimpse into the enigmatic world of the Horseman Society.
During the 1700s, Scotland underwent significant agricultural advancements, transitioning from inefficient oxen-drawn plows to the revolutionary improved plow developed by James Small. This marked a pivotal moment in Scottish farming, leading to the emergence of the farm horsemen – a new class of specialized farm servants with expertise in working with horses.
As the demand for skilled horsemen grew, the horsemen realized the power they held in their specialized skills and came together to form a brotherhood reminiscent of medieval trade organizations. Modeled after the Worshipful Companies, these horsemen created a protectionist, self-regulating closed shop akin to a trade union, known as the Horseman Society.
The initiation into the Horseman Society was a ritual steeped in mystery and tradition. From blindfolded ceremonies in the dead of night to solemn oaths sworn on altars made of rice sacks, the initiation process instilled a sense of camaraderie and pride in members.
Membership in the Horseman Society bestowed upon individuals a sense of power over horses and a certain mystique that outsiders perceived as magical. However, beyond the rituals and perceived magic, being a member of the society had practical benefits. It provided access to mentoring, training, problem-solving, and enhanced community respect for aspiring horsemen.
Despite over a century of existence, the 20th century brought about the decline of both the farm horse and the Horseman Society. The advent of mechanization, particularly tractors, during World War I and the rise of organizations like the Scottish Farm Servants’ Union led to the waning relevance of the Horseman Society.
By the 1920s, the once-thriving society and its members faced an uncertain future as the agricultural landscape shifted towards mechanization and modernization. The final blow came with the widespread adoption of tractors, marking the end of an era for both working farm horses and the Horseman Society.
In conclusion, the Scottish Farm Horsemen Society, with its rich traditions and rituals, played a significant role in Scotland’s agricultural history. While its influence may have waned in modern times, the legacy of the horsemen and their commitment to excellence in horsemanship lives on in the annals of Scottish farming folklore.
