Keilty's Travels


United States, East to West: Maryland

Horse on the beach, near children playing, at Assateague National Park

Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland: August 22-23, 2005 Click here to see photos

Where else can you see wild horses roaming free on the beach, escaping the summer sun with a swim in the ocean and snacking on dune grass? These "wild" horses originated from domesticated stock that grazed on the island as early as the 17th century by Eastern Shore planters. They brought them to the island in order to avoid mainland taxes and fencing requirements. As docile and friendly as the horses appeared, we both slept in our tent with one eye and both ears open, anticipating an evening stampede. As it turned out, the mosquitoes were far more threatening. Bring extra DEET if you visit.

Visitors since August 21, 2006: