Assateague Island, Virginia, the site of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, is home to a famous herd of wild ponies, as well as thousands of snowy egrets and huge tortoises, all living within the island's dunes, and the extensive wetlands and marshes.
   Another popular attraction for the thousands of visitors who come to the island each year, is the 150 year old classic, the Assateague Lighthouse. Owned today by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the red-and-white striped lighthouse was built in 1867 and stands 154 feet tall. Still an active navigational aid, the Assateague Lighthouse beam can be seen nearly 20 miles out in the Atlantic Ocean.
   Just about a 1/4 mile from Chincoteague Island, lighthouse visitors may drive or take a bicycle and even walk the trail from Chincoteague over to Assateague Island. Like most other lighthouses, the sea air's corrosive winds challenge even the best built coastal structures. In 2009, the first phase of a restoration project began. Both interior components, including the spiral staircase, lantern room and exterior brick were restored. Receiving support from friends group funds, plus other donations and grants were received throughout the project. The exterior was finally completed in 2013 with the familiar red and white striped paint job. There were thoughts of leaving the the natural brick exposed, but the classic paint scheme won out. The lighthouse is open again to visitors each weekend from April through November from 9am to 3. While the admission is free, donations are gratefully accepted.

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