Chincoteague, VA
Chincoteague is a town located in Accomack County, Virginia, encompassing all of Chincoteague Island and adjacent waters. As of the 2020 census, the town’s population was 3,344. It serves as a popular tourist destination and gateway to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on nearby Assateague Island, known for its scenic beach and the Virginia herd of Chincoteague Ponies. The annual Pony Swim, celebrated in Marguerite Henry’s 1947 children’s book Misty of Chincoteague, is a major event, with the story later adapted into a 1961 film.
History
Once a barrier island, Chincoteague became shielded from the ocean in the mid-1800s as Assateague Island shifted southward. The first land grant on Chincoteague Island was issued in 1650, and by 1671, settlers had arrived. By 1838, the island was home to 36 houses. During the Civil War, Chincoteague remained loyal to the Union, voting overwhelmingly against secession. It also saw minor skirmishes, including the Battle of Cockle Creek in 1861.
The island’s name is derived from the Native American term Gingoteague, and the town’s name was officially recognized by the United States Board on Geographic Names in 1943. The Ash Wednesday Storm of 1962 caused widespread flooding and devastation, leading to the preservation of much of Assateague Island as a national seashore in 1965. Notable historic sites on the island include the Assateague Lighthouse and Captain Timothy Hill House, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2020, Chincoteague received $53.9 million in flood protection funding.
Chincoteague Ponies
The Chincoteague Ponies are believed to be descendants of horses brought by early Eastern Shore farmers in the 17th century, though a local legend suggests they descended from survivors of a Spanish shipwreck in 1750. Each year, the Pony Penning event, held since 1925, sees wild ponies swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island, where they are herded and auctioned. This event takes place on the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, with the swim occurring on Wednesday and the auction on Thursday. The ponies are then returned to Assateague on Friday.
Tourism
Chincoteague is a popular spot for tourists, offering a variety of accommodations, including small hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and campgrounds. The island also features numerous restaurants, ice cream parlors, and recreational activities such as miniature golf. Two local museums, Beebe Ranch and the Museum of Chincoteague Island, attract visitors interested in the area’s history. The nearby Wallops Flight Facility, used for launching Antares rockets, also draws tourists for rocket launches.
Interior Painting in Chincoteague, VA
Your home’s interior reflects your unique style, and the colors on your walls, floors, and ceilings have a profound impact on your mood and well-being. At Matthew Freeze Painting, we understand the importance of this space and strive to make the painting process smooth and enjoyable. From selecting the right colors to executing the perfect finish, our expert team ensures a quality result while maintaining cleanliness and respecting your needs. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or transforming your entire home, we’ll guide you every step of the way with a free consultation and professional, tailored service.
Exterior Painting in Chincoteague, VA
Living by the ocean in Chincoteague means your home faces unique challenges from the elements. Whether it’s the sun, wind, or rain, it’s essential to choose a painting company that understands how to protect and enhance your exterior. Our experienced exterior painters use premium paints and coatings to ensure your home stands up to the harsh Eastern Virginia weather while maintaining its beauty. With our meticulous preparation and high-quality finishes, we preserve the integrity of your home for years to come, safeguarding it from the elements.
Window Glazing Services in Chincoteague, VA
Restoring and preserving the delicate antique windows in historic homes is a specialty of ours. Proper window glazing ensures your home is both energy-efficient and secure, while maintaining the integrity of original glass. Whether you own a historic property or simply want to enhance the efficiency of your windows, our expert team is trained to provide high-quality window glazing that prevents air and water leaks, reduces energy costs, and ensures long-lasting durability. Trust us to protect your windows and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Commercial Painting in Chincoteague, VA
Chincoteague businesses need a reliable painting partner to create inviting, professional spaces. Whether you manage a storefront, a hotel, a hospital, or an industrial facility, Matthew Freeze Painting delivers top-quality results tailored to your commercial needs. We work with high-quality materials and innovative techniques to create spaces that not only look great but stand up to wear and tear. Our team is committed to transforming your commercial property into a space that leaves a lasting impression on customers and employees alike.
Historical Renovation Painting in Chincoteague, VA
We are passionate about preserving the charm and history of Chincoteague’s historic homes and buildings. Our skilled team combines painting and carpentry to restore delicate trim and blend new work seamlessly with original designs. Using premium materials tailored for historic surfaces, we ensure vibrant, long-lasting results while protecting these treasured properties. Whether restoring faded woodwork or refreshing classic trim, we ensure that your historic home retains its unique character for generations to come.
Cabinet Refinishing in Chincoteague, VA
Revitalize your kitchen or bathroom without the cost of replacing your cabinets. At Matthew Freeze Painting, we specialize in cabinet refinishing and painting, transforming worn-out cabinets into stunning focal points of your home. Our team uses the highest-quality materials and techniques to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish, whether you prefer a timeless white, a bold accent color, or a natural wood look. Enhance the beauty and functionality of your cabinets with our expert refinishing services and give your space a fresh, modern upgrade.