"In 1951, several nature writers were captivating readers with books that would endure for generations. Rachel Carson opened our eyes to the oceans’ wonders. Thor Heyerdahl thrilled us with his tale of South Seas bravery aboard a log raft. And Gilbert Klingel, a lesser known but no less knowledgeable author, took us where no one else had gone before and lived to tell of it: to the bottom of Chesapeake Bay..."

Model Deadrise Boat Raffle: Update

• 1963 Lightning, beautiful
• 1985 Oday 31, Universal Diesel,
• 2005 Seaward, Chilco, 18.5'

Renew your membership

We've added caps to our online inventory - choose between Peggy of New Pt and Mathews Maritime Foundation.

Can you help us identify boat builders of Mathews from the last century? We want to capture their stories before they are gone!

Our county, Mathews, VA, produced ships until the 1860’s and then smaller vessels. Although we have some records of the builders, your first-hand accounts would help fill in the gaps.

With 2800+ local artifacts and exhibits like The Steamboat Era in Mathews, our museum has a lot to offer.

Your support funds educational programs, restores historic boats, and preserves the maritime history of Mathews County.

Tax deductible donations can be made by cash, check, or PayPal. MMF also maintains a profile with the Community Foundation at connectVA.org.