The centennial Chincoteague Pony Swim is taking place on July 30, but a whole week of events precedes the swim.

Before houses, shops and attractions lined Main Street on Chincoteague Island, there once stood an ice cream shop, a hotel, a post office and a factory. Just over 100 years ago, the island was filled with dirt roads and wood and brick buildings, according to assistant director of the Museum of Chincoteague Island Cindy Faith. “It looks sort of like any movie set that you would have seen out west depicting the turn of the century,” Faith said. 

Thousands of people attended the 100th Chincoteague Pony Swim.

This year’s Pony Swim will mark the 100th anniversary of ponies crossing the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island. 

Thousands gather at Assateague Channel for the historic event, drawing travelers from across the country to witness the beloved tradition organized by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company.

Before houses, shops and attractions lined Main Street on Chincoteague Island, there once stood an ice cream shop, a hotel, a post office and a factory. Just over 100 years ago, the island was filled with dirt roads and wood and brick buildings, according to assistant director of the Museum of Chincoteague Island Cindy Faith. “It looks sort of like any movie set that you would have seen out west depicting the turn of the century,” Faith said. 

With the town of Chincoteague’s annual Pony Swim fast approaching on July 30, this year’s event will mark the 100th anniversary of ponies crossing the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island.

The centennial Chincoteague Pony Swim is taking place on July 30, but a whole week of events precedes the swim.

The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, formed after devastating island fires in the 1920s, now plays a vital role in the annual Chincoteague Pony Swim, showcasing a century-long dedication to community service and tradition.