The Shetland pony is a breed of pony originating in the Shetland Isles, a subarctic chain of islands off the northeast coast of mainland Scotland. It is believed that the pony has been on the island for over 2000 years, small horses having been brought over during the Bronze Age. It is then suggested that these ponies were later crossed with stock ponies and Celtic ponies imported by settlers. Due to the harsh climate of the islands, the ponies developed into extremely hardy animals. "No place in Shetland is further than four miles from the sea and it is legendary during the worst winters lack of grazing on the scathold would drive some ponies to forage for seaweed along the shores." http://www.shetlandponystudbooksociety.co.uk/about-the-breed The smallest ponies were able to survive the climate, and the breed ranges in size from 7 hands to 11 hands maximum. They are extremely strong, and are considered the strongest horse breed in comparison to their size. They were used for hauling coal, peet, carts, and for ploughing. During the industrial revolution the ponies were imported to England and even to the United States to haul coal from the mines after a la was enacted in 1847 to prohibit children from going into the mines. Their lives were very short in these conditions. The American Shetland pony was developed after being imported to the country. These ponies are noted for being taller and finer. Today the ponies are used for various types of activities, including races.
Ploughing on the Shetland Islands
Pit pony in Virginia
Shetland pony races
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