Chincoteague Pony Swim
 Legend has it
that once upon a time, a Spanish galleon floundered off the shore of Virginia during a
storm. The cargo, a herd of ponies bound for the coal mines, escaped. They
swam to the barrier islands of Assategue and Chincoteague, and established the herds still
in existence today. Although it is far more likely that thrifty 17th century
Virginians kept their horses on the islands to avoid paying a fencing tax, this is the
legend immortalized in the book "Misty
of Chincoteague "
 Today the
ponies belong to the Chincoteague Fire Department. The yearly auction and its
accompanying carnival are a major source of their income. The Chincoteague pony is a
recognized breed. The quilt at right was one of several items raffled off at
last years carnival.
.
  During the last week
of July, Chincoteague firefighters round up the wild ponies on the island of
Assateague.
Early on Wednesday morning, the "saltwater cowboys" herd the 150 or so
ponies across the narrowest part of the channel between Assateague and Chincoteague at low
tide. The saltwater cowboys bring their horses back by ferry.
In the predawn darkness, the horses begin their swim
 .
  
The first foal to reach the shore is christened King or Queen Neptune.
Click here for
more pony swim information.
  
  
 
The ponies are then herded through the town to the carnival grounds...
  
  
where the foals are auctioned off. Buyers have the option of
donating females back to the herd. This is not a small gift, as auction prices start
at $900 and can go as high as $4000.
   
 
Quoting from http://www.chincoteague.com; "Chincoteague
Island, Virginia's only resort island, is one of the many and perhaps the most beautiful
island that dots Virginia's Eastern Shore. World famous for its oyster beds and clam
shoals, this picturesque island is the gateway to Assateague Island National Seashore.
Adventure awaits everywhere as history and legend blend with the wild loveliness of the
seasonal shore. The serene fishing village, 7 miles long and 1.5 miles wide and abounding
with history and natural charm, welcomes you to explore its unique island heritage."
The Assateague Island Lighthouse is still a working lighthouse.
Island paths lead TO it, but you can't go in. Other Chincoteague links:
http://www.chincoteague.com
National Chincoteague PonyFoundation's Website!
http://www.chincoteague.com/ponycentre
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