Have you ever witnessed the awe-inspiring sight of a horse running freely? It’s a rare and magnificent experience. Fortunately, there are a few locations where you can still observe the pure majesty of a wild horse—strong, independent, and glorious—as it gallops through the landscape. While they are commonly known as “wild,” the free-roaming horses in the United States are technically feral, originating from once-domesticated livestock. Most of them are descendants of animals that broke free from Spanish explorers, the United States Calvary, Indigenous People, or ranchers and managed to survive and reproduce. These horses can be found in plains, mountains, and beaches throughout the country, albeit in smaller numbers than before.
Horses are powerful and remarkable creatures. Although the areas where they roam freely are limited, there are several places in the Southern United States where visitors can observe them from a distance.
Georgia
Cumberland Island National Seashore stands as one of the largest islands off the Georgia coast and is home to a herd of approximately 150-200 feral horses. These horses are descendants of various modern breeds such as Tennessee Walkers, American Quarter Horses, Arabians, and Paso Finos. Access to the island is only possible by ferry from St. Mary’s, offering visitors a chance to experience its natural beauty.
Recently, the Cumberland Island horse herd has faced challenges, as they are not managed by any organization or park service, leading to a lack of necessary resources like food, water, and veterinary care. Advocacy groups are striving to provide more support for this feral herd, as their lifespan is shorter than that of typical domesticated horses.
These horses can often be spotted grazing along Cumberland’s shores, feeding on sea oats or vegetation on the island’s untouched 18-mile beach. It’s advised not to approach them closely, as horses, though seemingly friendly, can be unpredictable. The best way to view them is from a safe distance.
The historic Greyfield Inn is the sole commercial establishment on the island, operated by the Carnegie family. Originally constructed in 1900 as a retreat, the inn has a rich history, including hosting John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s wedding reception in 1996. Guests can choose from 15 rooms, partake in nature education programs, dine on farm-to-table cuisine sourced from the hotel’s garden, and embark on hikes through the island’s ancient forests.
For those looking to stay nearby, Amelia Island offers accommodations with a convenient boat ride across to Cumberland for an unforgettable day trip.
North Carolina
Corolla, located on the Outer Banks, is home to a remarkable population of wild horses with a fascinating origin story. Known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to its treacherous sandbars and historic shipwrecks, Corolla became the haven for Spanish Mustangs that survived shipwrecks centuries ago and swam ashore to establish herds of
There is a variety of horse breeds found in different parts of the Outer Banks. For example, on Shackleford Banks, the southernmost island of the Outer Banks, there is a collection of wild horses. Located about three miles from the main beach, the only way to get close enough to see these horses is by boat. Similarly, a small herd of horses can be found on Ocracoke Island within a 180-acre preserve.
In Virginia, there is the famous Chinconteague and Assateague Wild Pony Swim. This event is reminiscent of the beloved book “Misty of Chinconteague” by Marguerite Henry, which won the Newberry Award in 1948 and was later adapted into a movie. The real-life annual wild horse roundup and Pony Swim from Chinconteague to Assateague, two barrier islands along Virginia and Maryland’s shoreline, is a genuine tradition.
The horses on these islands are separated by a fence along the Virginia and Maryland state borders. The horses owned by the Chinconteague Volunteer Fire Company in Virginia are maintained through a yearly pony auction, where Saltwater Cowboys guide the horses from Assateague to Chinconteague for the auction. On the Maryland side of Assateague, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service cares for around 150 horses, with some closer to the road for visitors to observe.
The Pony Swim is a popular event that attracts tourists and locals alike. The festivities include a parade and carnival, with skilled horse riders guiding the herd across the channel. The first pony to reach the shore is honored as King or Queen Neptune and raffled during the celebration. The proceeds from the auction go towards providing veterinary care for the horses and supporting the volunteer firefighters, as well as benefiting local charities.
In South Carolina, the Marsh Tacky is celebrated as the state’s heritage horse. Descended from the horses of 16th-century Spanish explorers, the Marsh Tacky is known for its sturdiness and sure-footedness. These horses played a vital role in the Revolutionary War, with soldiers under Brigadier General Francis Marion riding them to victory.
Although the Marsh Tacky horses no longer run wild on Daufuskie Island, efforts are being made to restore the herd in its native habitat. Visitors to the island can witness these conservation efforts at the Daufuskie Island Marsh Tacky Association.
Born on a remote island in 40 years, Estelita came into the world in 2018 as a direct consequence of the horses being brought together in a safer pasture during the onslaught of Hurricane Matthew. This foal marked the beginning of a series of new births on the island, with one such arrival being Estelita’s sibling, Mateo, who also entered the world during the tumultuous time of the hurricane. This remarkable event serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature in the face of adversity.
The island, nestled in the midst of the vast ocean, witnessed the miracle of new life emerging amidst the chaos and destruction brought on by the powerful hurricane. The bond between the horses, forged out of necessity for survival, resulted in the birth of Estelita and Mateo, two beautiful beings whose presence brought hope and joy to the island’s inhabitants.
As the first offspring to be born during Hurricane Matthew, Estelita holds a special place in the hearts of those who witnessed her arrival. Her delicate features and playful demeanor captured the essence of renewal and rebirth in the aftermath of the storm. Alongside her brother Mateo, they represented a beacon of light in a time of darkness, symbolizing the enduring spirit of life even in the face of nature’s fury.
The island, known for its serene beauty and tranquil surroundings, became a sanctuary for the horses and their newborn offspring. The lush pastures provided a safe haven for the animals to thrive and grow, despite the challenges posed by the raging storm. The birth of Estelita and Mateo marked a turning point for the island, signifying a new beginning and a sense of hope for the future.
In the wake of Hurricane Matthew, the island’s residents banded together to rebuild and restore their home to its former glory. The presence of the new foals served as a reminder of the resilience of nature and the power of unity in times of crisis. Estelita and Mateo became symbols of strength and perseverance, embodying the spirit of survival that defined the community in the face of adversity.
The story of Estelita and Mateo’s birth during Hurricane Matthew is a testament to the indomitable spirit of life and the profound bond between humans and animals. Their arrival brought a sense of renewal and optimism to the island, inspiring all who witnessed their journey. As they frolicked and played in the sun-drenched pastures, the foals embodied the beauty and grace of nature’s enduring cycle of life.
As time passed and the memories of Hurricane Matthew faded, Estelita and Mateo grew into strong and majestic horses, embodying the legacy of resilience and hope that defined their early days. Their bond remained unbreakable, a testament to the enduring power of love and companionship in the face of adversity. Amidst the tranquil beauty of the island, the spirits of Estelita and Mateo continued to roam free, a living reminder of the strength and resilience that.
