Marsh Tacky

Daufuskie Island, Marsh Tacky
Marsh Tacky

Have you ever heard of a Marsh Tacky?

It is a critically endangered breed of horse. Small in size, it is well-adapted for use in the lowland swamps of South Carolina. Spanish explorers developed them from Spanish horses brought to the South Carolina coast as early as the 16th century. The colonists used the Marsh Tacky horse during the American Revolution and by settlers for farm work, herding cattle, and hunting.

The Marsh Tacky breed is only found in South Carolina and is a resident of Daufuskie Island.

They once roamed free in the Lowcountry’s Sea Islands but are now less than 400.

The Daufuskie Marsh Tacky Society (a 501(c)3) is committed to saving the critically endangered South Carolina State Heritage Horse on Daufuskie Island through equine-oriented programs that benefit the public.

Published On: December 29, 2023Categories: Coastal History, Daufuskie Island