Chincoteague Island – “Beautiful land across the water”, the land of the Gingo’teague Indian tribe, was first visited around 1524 by the French explorer, Giovanni da Verranzano. Giovanni da Verranzano was Italian but exploring for the French crown. Later came the English explorer, Captain John Smith. It was Capt’ Smith, who established trade with the Indians and possibly began the first English settlement on Chincoteague Island. Several island families trace their heritage back to these early settlers.

The Watson Family is first noted on the island around 1740. They were experienced farmers, herders and fishermen. The family grew in prominence and wealth and by the 1850’s had large acreage, many horses, livestock and were becoming wealthy by island standards. Around this time, Robert Watson rounded up his horses and some of the wild ponies of Chincoteague and drove them into ‘town’ for the first of many ‘Chincoteague Island Pony Penning’ auctions. The local and surrounding farmers and land owners enjoyed the event so much that it continues today.  In late July, the wild ponies of Chincoteague are rounded up for a yearly swim across Assateague Channel to be auctioned to anyone willing to sponsor and care for the pony. It has become a way to manage herd size and care for the wild ponies.

Come to Chincoteague Island and stay in the house that Robert Watson and his son, David Robert Watson built in 1898. The Watson House is a beautiful, Victorian Bed and Breakfast with four rooms, all with private baths, completely furnished with antiques of the era.

Experience what Robert Watson left us as the preeminent B&B on Chincoteague Island.