Midnight the Pony’s Impact at Drumlin Farm

We are saddened to announce the passing of Midnight the pony, a beloved fixture at Drumlin Farm for decades. Midnight passed after battling several conditions related to his old age. His medical condition was closely monitored by staff over the years, and he was given the best care possible. 

About Midnight 

Aptly named after his dark black coat, Midnight was a friendly face at Drumlin Farm for 24 years, arriving all the way from Vermont in 2001. When Drumlin Farm’s Livestock Manager Caroline Malone first met him, veterinarians estimated that he was about 24 years old. That means he lived to be 45 years old (give or take a few years), which is the average lifespan for a Welsh Pony.

Midnight’s Legacy 

Midnight, a staple in Drumlin Farm’s educational programs over the last two decades, worked with children during camp, preschool, and school programs. In his heyday, Midnight pulled a cart that kids filled with hay and rocks removed from the crops field while they learned about historical farming practices and how to take care of the farm. After cart-pulling retirement about 10 years ago, farm education programs shifted their focus with Midnight to grooming, stall cleaning, and equine care.  

“He was a frisky pony but was always calm around the kids. Whenever you approached him, he would knicker to greet you—our preschoolers always mention that,” says Caroline. 

Over the years, thousands of campers and visitors came to know Midnight and his particularities. From his friendship with Lavender the milk cow to his escape-artist tendencies, everyone has a story to tell about the mischievous pony. He brightened the day of all who came to see him at his home in the Red Barn. 

A Model Ambassador 

As a working farm, Drumlin Farm showcases how agriculture can be performed in a sustainable way that coexists with people and wildlife. Animals like Midnight help us educate the public about this process and serve as ambassadors for their species, giving children hands-on experience with animal handling and care. 

Midnight was beloved by all who met him. We will miss him and are grateful for the many years he brought joy to campers, visitors, and staff alike.