Horse Breeds: Chincoteague Pony

The Chincoteague pony, sometimes referred to as the Assateague, live on the barrier island of Assateague between Virginia and Maryland. The popular theory is that these horses are descents of those steeds who swam to the island after Spanish shipwrecks, probably in the 1600s, but we really have no way of really knowing how these horses got to Assateague.

This small island is not known for its comfort, so the horses had to adapt to their new environment. Facing a hard life and having to feed on marsh grass and whatever they could find on the beach, they changed and adapted, eventually becoming the Chincoteague we know today.

Today, the Chincoteague ponies are divided into two groups. Those on the Maryland side are owned by the Maryland Park Service and are generally left alone. Those on the Virginian side are owned by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department. Each year, these horses are swum across the channel into Virginia. The foals are auctioned off and the stallions and mares are returned to the island to continue their lives.

Made famous by Marguerite Henry’s book Misty of Chincoteague, the Chincoteague ponies are generally not found in sporting events. They are, however, ridden by many horse lovers around the world. They can be found sporting either English or western tack and are considered a joy to own.

The Chincoteague is a result of its harsh island environment. They have thick manes and tails for warmth and light fetlock feathering. A sturdy little horse, their hooves are exceptionally strong and ideal for clamboring around on the rocky island. They can be found in almost any color, though bright pintos are the most common. Strawberry roan on white and palimino on white are the most desireable, but all colors suit this little pony. A fully grown Chincoteague stands from 12 to 14.2 hands high.