The Brightside: Chincoteague’s Wild Ponies Keep Island Tradition AliveCHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND, Va. — The Chincoteague wild ponies are a major attraction, but for locals, they’re also a key part of the island’s history. On Chincoteague, the wild ponies are much more than a tourist attraction. Faith said that 60 years ago, the Beebe family often had run-ins with people eager to see the ponies. I’ve got to post signs in the yard that say, “No tents,”‘” Faith said. The excitement surrounding the wild ponies is enough to bring people to Chincoteague, but when visitors arrive, it’s also a chance to experience the island’s history.