MATHEWS MUSEUM READIES FOR MAY FAIRE, MAY 2 & 3
“Celebrating Virginia’s 250^th”

As the nation approaches its 250th birthday, the Mathews Museum invites residents and visitors to enjoy a hands-on weekend of history, heritage, and hometown fun during May Faire, Saturday and Sunday, May 2nd & 3rd.

This two-day celebration—held the first weekend in May—kicks off a season of revolutionary festivities in Mathews leading up to the county’s July 4th events.

May Faire 2026 will feature beloved traditions alongside exciting new additions, including a historical archaeology dig hosted by the Fairfield Foundation and a closing performance on Sunday, by the Yorktown Fife and Drum Corps. “Get out your mother’s pound cake recipe,” says May Faire co-chair Melody Barnes. “The Pound Cake Contest is always a highlight—and afterward, the cakes will be available for sale at the Museum. There will be three categories—and a junior category. All information for the contest will be available on Facebook and at www.mathewsmuseum.org.” Barnes adds, “We’re planning a family-friendly event filled with history demonstrations, children’s activities, coastal storytelling, baby chicks hatching and, of course, Maypole dancing.”

NEW EXHIBITS INSIDE THE MUSEUM

*Battle of Cricket Hill Diorama. And don’t miss a truly one-of-a-kind attraction: a remarkable 6-foot by 6-foot diorama of the Battle of Cricket Hill, now being created by local model enthusiast and Museum volunteer Don Goode. This detailed display will depict Gwynn’s Island, the mainland, Fort Hammond, the Ethiopian Regiment, and nearly 100 small boats from Lord Dunmore’s fleet gathered in Hills Bay—a stunning visual glimpse into a dramatic chapter of local history.

*Indigenous Peoples Exhibit
Explore the rich history of the region’s earliest inhabitants through original artifacts, a hands-on touch table, and a huge hand-carved dugout canoe.  Indigenous peoples lived in the Mathews area for thousands of years, until the Kiskiack Tribe was driven out in the 1670s. 

OUTSIDE ON THE COURT GREEN & COURT STREET

*Farm animals, baby chicks hatching  *weaving and quilting demonstrations

*Food and craft vendors *Live music on stage *Family-friendly activities

Admission is free. For more information, visit www.mathewsmuseum.org. The Mathews Museum has also launched a new website, expanding access to local history and inviting the community to take an active role in preserving and sharing the county’s stories.