The Museum of Chincoteague Island, which recently purchased the longtime home of “Misty of Chincoteague” and her descendants, is preparing to transition the Beebe Ranch to museum status and is looking for exhibit ideas.

While the central theme is the pony who inspired the classic Marguerite Henry novels, potential exhibits might also touch on Misty’s Virginia barrier island family and the author who made her famous.

The museum posted the following update Sept. 20 on its Facebook page.

Committee formed

“So much has happened since June 30th when the Museum of Chincoteague was able to purchase the Beebe Ranch thanks to the support of thousands of people from around the country. We are still amazed at everyone’s generosity,” the post begins.

“Let’s get up to date. 

“The Beebe Ranch Committee was formed. This group is a collection of museum volunteers, board members, staff and pony and history enthusiasts eager to preserve the Misty story and the Beebe Ranch property. They have had several meetings planning for what’s to come.

Museum seeks input

“Work is beginning next month to complete a few repairs on the house and then add an entrance (including a ramp) that will accommodate a wheelchair. Then the fun begins!” the post continues.

“We have a few ideas of what the exhibits could include, but we would love to hear your thoughts. What do you think needs to be included? History of the Beebe family? How about a story of Marguerite Henry’s life? The events that lead to the writing of ”Stormy, Misty’s Foal”? 

“We will be looking at your ideas and spending this winter and next spring creating a space that we hope you will be excited to see! 

Grounds improvement

“In addition, work is being started on the pasture to clear away overgrowth and nurture the pastures back to health,” museum officials relate.

“This work has mostly been done by volunteers including Billy Beebe. Billy and his team have been hard at work over the last few months preparing the property for more difficult projects over the winter. Thank you, Billy, Pat and Mike!

“During the winter months, heavy foliage and fallen trees will be remove to clear the way for new grass growth. (We intend to keep all the standing trees intact.) We have a professional crew coming in for that. 

“If all goes as planned, we will be ready to open next summer. We hope that you are all looking forward to visiting (or revisiting) the Beebe Ranch. We cannot wait to share it with you.”

About the museum

The mission of the Museum of Chincoteague is to collect and preserve the material culture that reflects the historical progression of the life on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. For more information or to submit ideas for exhibits, call (757) 336-6117 or email [email protected]. (You can also offer your thoughts through this post on the museum’s Facebook page.)

Landing page image from the Museum of Chincoteague Island’s social media post