The Mathews County Historical Society, Inc. has announced the publication of the last in a series of five books on Historic Homes and Properties of Mathews County, Virginia. Historic Homes and Properties, Vol. 5 completes the inventory of 50 historically significant, pre-Civil War homes.

The series documents early properties that are noteworthy both architecturally and historically and adds 10 more houses to the body of knowledge that makes up the rich history of the county.

Bar Neck (James Thomas House), George P. Owens House, Goshen, Green Plains, Hesse, Holly Point Farm (Spirit Hall), John Forrest House, John Haynes Jarvis House, Keeble House and Providence (Hopemont) are highlighted in Vol. 5.

Historical accuracy is the main goal in Mathews County Historical Society publications. Thus, primary sources such as land records, account books, family Bibles and other factual resources are used as well as analysis by acclaimed architectural and research historians, a release stated.

An official book launch will take place on April 1 to coincide with the opening of Tompkins Cottage Museum for the season. At that time, the owners of the homes featured in Vol. 5 will be recognized and honored for graciously opening their homes.

Historic Homes and Properties, Vol. 5, as well as Vols. 1–4, will be available for sale at Mathews County Visitor and Information Center when it reopens in February, at Tompkins Cottage Museum in April and soon on Amazon.com. The book sells for $12, which includes tax. For more information, visit www.mathewscountyhistoricalsociety.org.