Shetland pony

History of the Shetland

The Shetland Pony originated from the Shetland Islands - North East of Scotland and the Orkney Islands. The ancient ponies' roots are unknown, though it is believed that they are related to the ancient Scandinavian ponies from when the islands were joined with Scandinavia (up until 8000BC). They were probably influenced by the Celtic Pony, taken by the Celts between 1000 and 2000 AD. The harsh climate and little food developed the ponies into extremely hardy animals.

Related Topics:
Shetland Islands - Scotland - Orkney Islands - Scandinavia

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They were first used for carrying peat and ploughing. Then, in the mid-19th century, when laws were passed prohibiting children from working in coal mines, thousands of Shetlands travelled to Mainland Britain to be 'pit ponies,' working underground their whole lives hauling coal. The United States mid-west coal mines also imported some of these animals.

Related Topics:
United States - Mid-west

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The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society was started in 1890 to maintain purity and encourage high-quality animals. In 1956, the Shetland Islands Premium Stallion Scheme was formed to subsidize high-quality registered stallions to improve the breeding stock.

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Today, Shetlands are used as children's ponies and are also featured in the Shetland Pony Grand National, galloping around the course with their young jockeys.

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