Historical Markers in
Mathews County, Virginia

Battle of Cricket Hill By Duty Done Is Honor Won By Land And By Sea Captain Sally L. Tompkins, C.S.A. Captain Sally L. Tompkins, C.S.A. Monument Civil War In Mathews County Civil War In Mathews County Civil War In Mathews County Civil War In Mathews County Field Fortifications Fitchett's Wharf Fort Cricket Hill Fort Nonsense Gloucester County / Mathews County John Clayton, Botanist Kingston Parish Kingston Parish Glebe Mathews County Mathews County / Gloucester County Mathews County Confederate Monument Mathews County Courthouse Square New Point Comfort Lighthouse Thomas Hunter (Rosenwald) School Tompkins Cottage Museum Veterans Memorial
Jamestown, Virginia, was the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. It was founded in 1607 and served as the capital of Virginia until 1699.
Virginia random facts
Mathews County, located in the state of Virginia, has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Powhatan Confederacy, before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 17th century, English colonists led by Captain John Smith explored and established a presence in the region.

Mathews County was officially established in 1791, named after Thomas Mathews, a prominent figure in the Revolutionary War. During the 19th century, the county thrived due to its agricultural and maritime industries. Farms produced tobacco, corn, and wheat, while the Chesapeake Bay provided a bustling hub for fishing and oystering. The county also became known for its shipbuilding industry, with many vessels constructed along the waterfront.

The Civil War greatly impacted Mathews County, as it fell under Union control early on in the conflict. The county's location along the Chesapeake Bay made it strategically significant, and Union forces used it as a base for their operations. However, the local residents, many of whom were sympathetic to the Confederate cause, faced various challenges and tensions during this time.

In the 20th century, Mathews County witnessed a shift from agriculture to tourism and residential development. Its scenic beauty, with numerous rivers and wetlands, attracted visitors seeking to explore the outdoors. Today, Mathews County continues to be a charming coastal community with a deep appreciation for its history and natural surroundings.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Mathews County, Virginia.

  • Created in 1791 from Gloucester County
  • Named after Thomas Mathews, a judge and Revolutionary War officer
  • Originally an agricultural community, primarily focused on tobacco and fishing industries
  • During the Civil War, the county was occupied by Union forces and suffered significant damage
  • In the late 19th century, tourism became an important industry for the county
  • The county's first public high school was established in 1911
  • In the 20th century, the county experienced modernization and infrastructure development
  • Today, Mathews County is known for its scenic beauty, friendly community, and rich maritime history