Preserving and Protecting Mathews County’s priceless natural resources is the mission of the Mathews Land Conservancy. We are dedicated to making the area’s waterways and natural lands accessible to the entire community and its visitors, so that all can enjoy the very qualities that make Mathews County a natural resource.
Every MLC initiative is driven by preservation, education, and conservation
The MLC needs YOUR help to accomplish our goals of protecting and preserving Mathews’ natural lands and resources. Your tax deductible contribution will allow us to obtain, manage and protect crucial lands for the benefit of Mathews County residents and visitors.
Located along the shore of the East River contiguous with historic Williams Wharf Landing, is the B. Williams and Co. Store, a local landmark since its construction in 1869. It served as a general merchandise store, ships chandlery, specialty ladies hat shop and post office during the late nineteenth century and into the twentieth.
Owned by the Williams-Murray family since the last eighteenth century, this site and family served as a major focal point of much of the activity that took place at this busy port and crossroads for nearly 200 years.
Recently, the MLC was awarded a Virginia Land Conservation Foundation grant for $345,000 over a period of two years, which will cover ½ of the purchase price set at $690,000. Other grants and donations are being sought to finalize closing of this valuable piece of property.
Once purchased, the 1 acre site will be combined with the 4 acres comprising Williams Wharf Landing and will be owned, operated and maintained by the Mathews Land Conservancy for the general public. Specifically, the Store will be a secure site for housing and displaying the artifacts and memorabilia associated with the history and activities that have transpired at the Wharf over the centuries.
EXCITING NEWS! In March 2009, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources placed the B. Williams and Company Store in the Virginia Landmarks Register and recommended this property for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.
