The Chincoteague Pony has a rich history steeped in legend and resilience.

One popular theory suggests these ponies are descendants of horses that survived a Spanish shipwreck in the 16th century, later breeding with other horses brought to the islands by early settlers in the 17th century. Although their ancestors were full-sized horses, the ponies adapted to the nutrient-poor environment of the islands, resulting in smaller statures of 11-13 hands, despite their genetic potential being larger.

Historically, the Chincoteague Ponies roamed two islands: Chincoteague Island, home to settlers, and Assateague Island, which remained wild and uninhabited. Today, the feral ponies thrive solely on Assateague Island under careful management.

In 1925, the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD) organized a carnival to raise funds for a fire truck, rounding up ponies from Assateague and swimming them across the channel to auction. This event became an annual tradition, attracting larger crowds each year.

The ponies gained fame in 1946 when children’s author Marguerite Henry visited Beebe Ranch and was inspired by a newborn filly named Misty. Her book, Misty of Chincoteague, became a classic, captivating readers and drawing even more visitors to the island for the annual pony swim.

Over the years, the herd faced challenges, including disease outbreaks and natural disasters. To ensure genetic diversity, the CVFD introduced new bloodlines, including wild mustangs and an Arabian stallion in the 1990s. Today, the CVFD manages nearly 150 ponies on the Virginia side of Assateague Island.

Each year, most foals are sold at auction, while “buyback” foals—selected for their bloodlines, conformation, and size—are returned to the island. Funds from the annual sale support the ponies’ care, including vaccinations, deworming, and emergency medical assistance. During harsh winters or droughts, the CVFD provides supplemental hay and fresh water to ensure the herd’s well-being.

While often referred to as “wild,” the Chincoteague Ponies are a carefully managed, feral herd. Their enduring legacy and connection to the culture of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands make them a true treasure of the region.

CHINCOTEAGUE PONY CHARACTERISTICS