[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 72 (Thursday, April 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                 RECOGNIZING MATHEWS MUSEUM'S MAY FAIRE

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                         HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 23, 2026

  Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Mathews 
Museum in Mathews County, Virginia, as it proudly sponsors the County's 
annual spring festival, May Faire, to be held May 2, 2026, and May 3, 
2026. Now in its seventh year under the Museum's stewardship, this 
year's celebration is especially significant as it honors our Nation's 
250th Anniversary.
  Founded nearly 14 years ago, the Mathews Museum has grown steadily in 
both size and stature, becoming an integral part of the County's 
cultural and economic vitality. Guided by a dedicated Board of local 
residents, the Museum is committed to preserving, exploring, and 
sharing the rich history of Mathews County, ensuring that its stories 
remain vibrant for future generations.
  Through the collection and preservation of books, documents, 
artifacts, and cultural objects, the Museum brings the County's past to 
life. Its exhibits and educational programs offer residents and 
visitors alike a deeper understanding of Mathews County and highlight 
the important role the Commonwealth of Virginia has played in our 
Nation's history. Each year, May Faire invites attendees to explore a 
different aspect of the County's heritage. This year's focus highlights 
the area's rural way of life, its people, traditions, and enduring 
stories
  Festivities on the historic Court Green will include traditional May 
Pole dances, musical entertainment, an archaeological dig led by the 
Fairfield Foundation, and a children's area featuring live animals, 
games, and hands-on activities. Inside the Museum, new exhibits will 
further engage and inspire. Among them are the Hunley General Store and 
a developing diorama of the Battle of Cricket Hill. Guests can also 
explore the history of the Indigenous peoples who lived in the Mathews 
area through original artifacts, a hands-on touch table, and a hand-
carved dugout canoe.
  I commend the citizens of Mathews County for their dedication to 
preserving their history and sharing it with the public. Their efforts 
enrich not only their community but also the Commonwealth of Virginia 
and our Nation as a whole.

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