1917 Map of Mathews

About this map

Fort Nonsense (Ruins) stands as a notable landmark in this Tidewater landscape, overlooking the complex network of inlets and peninsulas that define the Mathews region. The shoreline economy of the early twentieth century is clearly visible through numerous waterfront facilities such as Callis Wharf, Williams Wharf, and Roanes Wharf, which served as vital connection points before the modern road system dominated transport. The map reveals a dense distribution of social centers, including Trinity Church and the Lee-Jackson School, illustrating the localized nature of rural Virginia life in this era.