Mathews Maritime Foundation
Museum & Boat Shop
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Boatbuilding Saturdays at the Boat Shop
The new build continues - every Sat., 10AM

Four weeks into this build and all is going well. Although it may look like we haven't made much progress, one must realize that the first steps in any boat construction are critical to its success. These first steps must not be hurried. Do you have an interest in how a boat comes together from the ground up? Then make plans to join us. All skill levels are welcome!


UPDATE on Gilbert Klingel’s “Freya”

"I recently returned from a trip to Maine, in part to visit with Mark Jackson on Green Island. Mark was the Maritime Technical Instructor at Vinalhaven High School and he was seeking a boat that needed restoration and would fulfill the need of his project; to provide a sailing experience and a challenge for the students..."

Continue reading the post →

Gwynn’s Island boat builder, Gilbert Klingel, featured April 2021 issue Chesapeake Bay Magazine

"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..."

Click here to read the full story →



Donor Boats for Sale

  • Endeavor 32, beautiful boat
  • 1972 wooden skiff, 35 hp
  • 1977 Arrowglass, Tarpon,





Boatbuilding Then & Now

Brown, Colvin, Deagle, Diggs, Hudgins, Klingel, and Schlenk - boatbuilders of Mathews County, VA. Can you help us identify others and tell their stories?



DVDs, Books & More

Support the foundation by shopping online.



Museum Artifacts & More

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


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

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


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Volunteers Wanted

  • Stop in Saturdays at 10AM, Gwynn's Island Boat Shop. Help or just observe boat repair and restoration projects. All skill levels welcome. More info here...

  • Our deck boat Peggy of New Point is in need of a steady crew to maintain and transport her to various maritime events around the Bay.

  • Gil Klingel’s Green Heron and Freya - volunteers needed to give both boats extensive restoration.

    Contact John Bonner to participate. Check out the latest Freya update here.

  • Help us set up displays at the museum.

  • Consider being a docent - don't worry, we will train.

  • We are currently looking for a suitable site for a new museum. At some point will need individuals who can assist with site planning, fund raising and grant writing.

Contact us to volunteer and for more information.
Purchase DVD

Klingel Film Wins Platinum Remi

The documentary “Gilbert Klingel: Man of Steel” is still winning awards. This year it went out west to Texas, to the Houston International Worldfest Film Festival. Read more...

Klingel History - His life and accomplishments

Purchase the DVD online

Mathews Maritime Museum
482 Main St.
Mathews, VA 23109


Open MAY-NOVEMBER,
Fridays & Saturdays, 10am-2pm

Google Maps
(804) 725-4444

Email

Mailing address:

Mathews Maritime Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 1201
Mathews, VA 23109-1201

Gwynn's Island Boat Shop
Boat slips available.

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