The River to Bay Artisan Trail, an initiative of The Artisans Center of Virginia, announced its official opening on Tuesday, July 31, at St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock. 

With just over 100 people attending, the inauguration included 37 showcase displays by trail members and the unveiling of the trail’s brochure and map. The counties of Gloucester, Essex, Middlesex and Mathews were all represented.

Among those attending was Mathews supervisor Amy Dubois, who said that the Artisan Trail “highlights Mathews’ incredible history, inviting water activities, talented artists, and welcoming community, and attracts visitors to intentionally come play and experience Mathews, spend some money, increase our revenue and spread the word.”

Pam Doss, leader of the team that brought the River to Bay Artisan Trail to fruition, said that the trail “will create connections and build pathways within our region that will strengthen all our communities.&rdqu...