The legacy of Nick and Mary Mathews is more than just a story of memorable dishes at their iconic restaurant, Nick’s Seafood Pavilion. That’s where their remarkable impact begins.
Opening in 1944, their business became a Virginia hotspot for its fine seafood, elaborate interior and unmatched hospitality. Soon, their establishment grew into a household name and drew luminaries and celebrities, such as Elizabeth Taylor and John Wayne.
On the eve of America’s 1976 Bicentennial, these beloved restaurateurs made a gift that would shape Yorktown for generations. They donated the land that became known as the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Their act of patriotism reflected a deep love for their adopted country.
Upon Mary’s passing, she bequeathed nearly their entire estate to the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation so that others could understand, in her own words, “…the blessings of freedom and democracy that commenced in my native Greece and later here in [Yorktown]…” Their generosity connected the past with the present and strengthened the ideals they cherished.
That’s why, on March 8, as part of the nation’s 250th commemoration, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown debuts an exhibit in their honor: “Patrons & Patriots: The Legacy of Nick and Mary Mathews.”
From serving up fresh catches to leaving behind an extraordinary heritage, Nick and Mary were visionaries who believed in giving back. The couple remain among the largest benefactors to JYF, as they dedicated their success to something greater than themselves. To this day, their kindness still touches lives across the world.
On display through July 27, 2025, this special collection will feature artifacts and images offering a glimpse into their personal and professional achievements. Through photographs and documents, visitors can discover how they lived but also how they gave — ensuring the story of freedom and democracy remains alive for future generations.
Come explore their remarkable journey. Celebrate the impact they made. Find inspiration by the legacy they left behind.
jyfmuseums.org/patrons-and-patriots
Photo Courtesy of Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation.
