Despite Saturday’s deluge, organizers of the Mathews Maritime Heritage Day said the event was a success, and attendance this year was double what was reported during last year’s festival.

"It gets better every year," said Dave Machen, member of the Mathews Maritime Foundation, the organization that hosts Heritage Day. "People seem to enjoy the new format."

This year, Heritage Day stops were located at various areas throughout Mathews County, with two of the main locations being Morningstar Marinas and the MMF’s Gwynn’s Island Boat Shop. At each stop, visitors were able to enjoy a wide range of activities, each bringing to life the rich maritime history of Mathews County.

Machen reported that Heritage Day saw twice the turnout as it did last year, averaging about 100 people. "Everyone that came out got a great show," he said.

Weather reports throughout last week were calling for fair weather Saturday. Organizers decided to put some of the vessels in the...