MATHEWS

Mathews is the second smallest county in Virginia, with 252 square miles, and has a population of approximately 9000. In 1791, Mathews County was formed from a part of Gloucester and named for Revolutionary War General Thomas Mathews. Well-known for its waterways, Mathews boasts 214 miles of waterfront, with much of that frontage on the Chesapeake Bay, Piankatank River, North and East Rivers, and Mobjack Bay. All this water makes Mathews a haven for boaters, kayakers, fishermen, and nature lovers.

Points of interest include New Point Comfort Lighthouse, Haven Beach, Bethel Beach Natural Area Preserve, and the Mathews Maritime Museum. Gwynn’s Island is a popular boating and fishing spot, with a public boat ramp, museum, and campground. The historic Mathews Courthouse area offers unique gift shops, antique and consignment shops, and several restaurants. Rich in history, Mathews has numerous historic sites including Christ Episcopal Church, Civil War earthworks of Fort Nonsense, and Tompkins Cottage – once owned by the family of Capt. Sally Tompkins, the only woman officially commissioned in the Confederate Army. The old mill at Poplar Grove ground grain for George Washington’ troops during the Revolution.

Mathews hosts the annual Tour de Chesapeake, a bicycling event which benefits the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Each September, the Mathews Market Days festival features arts and crafts exhibits, a variety of foods, and live music. Whether you’re looking for waterfront enjoyment, history, or just peace and quiet, Mathews County offers something for everyone.

Areas in Mathews: Mathews, Hudgins, Cobbs Creek, North, Gwynn, Foster, Moon, Bohannon, Port Haywood, Bavon, Susan.

Bodies of Water: Chesapeake Bay, Piankatank River, North River, East River, Mobjack Bay, Hills Bay, Milford Haven, Cobbs Creek, Queens Creek, Stutts Creek, Horn Harbor, Winter Harbor.

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