Virginia is for Lovers (of Ponies)

The state of Virginia has made its love affair with the legendary Chincoteague ponies official. The state’s House of Delegates and State Senate voted to name the Chincoteague Pony as the state’s official pony. According to a news report,  the legislation passed by a huge majority, making the decision veto-proof.

The unique breed was immortalized in the 1947 novel Misty of Chincoteague by author Marguerite Henry. Misty was a real pony owned by Henry and the source of inspiration for four books based on the little mare’s adventures.

Part of the story involved the annual pony swim, a real-life event that continues to this day. Each July, local volunteers round up and drive the ponies across a saltwater channel from the island of Assateague to Chincoteague to be auctioned off. The auction does double duty as a way to control the herd population and to raise much-needed funds for the fire department.

The annual Chincoteague Island Pony Swim enters its 97th year this July. Read about another beloved Chincoteague pony, Legend, here.

More from Industry:

What Does it Take to Be a Therapy Horse?

Wheelchairs, lifts, games, sights and sounds ‒ a lot of work goes into getting horses accustomed to therapy programs.

Horse Rescue Training for Firefighters

Large Animal Rescue Workshops are an invaluable way to train first responders and others who are not used to handling horses.

LongRun Graduate Horse Show Showcases OTTBs

Thoroughbreds show off new skills in their new careers, while racetrack connections can check up on their former charges.

Must-Watch TV for Horse Lovers: Cowboy Cartel

This riveting true crime drama exposes Mexico's Los Zetas cartel's expansive money laundering scheme and the Quarter Horse racing industry.