Chincoteague Chronicles

Chincoteague Chronicles (Doggerel Days on the Eastern Shore) by John J.,McDonough, Jr.

July is the month when the world descends on Chincoteague Island for the annual Pony Swim. The population of the Island can swell to 50,000 and vacation memories are made – especially for those who go home with a new pony! Visitors who return to Chincoteague more than once – whether during pony week or at any other time of the year – often comment that it is a special place and holds many memories for them.

Author John McDonough notes in his preface to Chincoteague Chronicles that he has been visiting Chincoteague with his extended family for more than twenty-five years. He says “It has always been interesting to me when in conversation with people to see their reactions to the subject of Chincoteague. Faces would light up right away and smiles would break out.” McDonough has set many of his best memories to verse, accompanied by wonderful illustrations from Island artist Claire Lott, proprietor of Lotts’ Arts and Things on Main Street.

McDonough’s lighthearted poems reflects his love of the Island and its people. We particularly like Passing By the Chincoteague Island Library On an Autumn Night, The Chincoteague Panther and The Mosquito – although The Sea Gull Motel has been a favorite of other long time visitors. There is even an ode to the now-closed Dream roller rink on Rt. 175 that was a landmark for Island visitors. Chincoteague Chronicles is a unique tribute to a special Island. For more information, click here.