The White Dog Inn, historically known as the Lane Hotel, has been approved for listing on the Virginia Landmarks Register.

Located on Church Street in downtown Mathews, the 2½-story Greek Revival-style structure, owned by Court and Tammye Van Clief, was approved on Dec. 17 for its significance in the areas of architecture and commerce. It was operated as a hotel and tavern from its construction circa 1840 until 1918, when it became a private residence.

Under the Van Cliefs’ ownership, the building is once again serving its original purpose, as a bed and breakfast and restaurant. Tammye Van Clief said she’s very excited about the listing.

"I think it’s wonderful that we were able to achieve that," she said. "It’s a good thing for Mathews. The more historical designations a county can get, the more draw there is for people to come and enjoy it."

Van Clief said she and her husband had thought the building was significant, and th...