THE MUSEUM OF CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND

In 1965 a group of women from Chincoteague Island banded together to discuss the possibility of creating a museum to celebrate the rich history of the seafood industry on the Island. It was decided that a museum called the Oyster Museum would be the best to represent this story. Plans were made; land was donated to this group of women by Wyle Maddox and research began. Fundraisers continued for several years as they acquired artifacts and interesting items to include in their museum. In 1972 the doors opened to the Oyster Museum. Over the years additions have been made, the Fresnel lens from the Assateague Island lighthouse acquired, and the exhibits changed to encompass a more thorough story of life on Chincoteague Island. Because of all these changes, the Museum name was changed again, this time the Museum of Chincoteague Island. The museum is a premier historical destination for visiting the Island and the Eastern Shore.

BEEBE RANCH

On June 30, 2023, a remarkable piece of Chincoteague history was preserved forever. Thanks to the efforts of countless supporters and the dream of a dedicated family, the Beebe Ranch is now officially part of the Museum of Chincoteague Island! The Beebe Ranch is more than just a local landmark—it’s a national treasure. Made famous as the home of Misty from Misty of Chincoteague, Marguerite Henry’s classic children’s book which was later adapted to film, this property has captured the hearts of readers and visitors from around the world. Generations have come to Chincoteague hoping to glimpse the place where fiction and real-life ponies met, and now, thanks to your support, this iconic site is preserved for all to experience.