WEST POINT, VA — July 6, 2026 — The Mattaponi Indian Tribe proudly announces that two additional parcels of Tribally-owned land have been officially placed into state trust and incorporated into the Mattaponi Indian Reservation.
On July 2, 2026, Governor Abigail Spanberger signed and recorded the agreement placing approximately 28 acres of land located on Indian Town Road into trust for the benefit of the Mattaponi Indian Tribe. The parcels were acquired by the Tribe over a period of years and are part of the Tribe's historic homeland and original land base.
This action strengthens the protection of Tribal lands and further affirms the sovereign status of the Reservation under the longstanding relationship between the Mattaponi Indian Tribe and the Commonwealth of Virginia.
"This is an important milestone for the Mattaponi people," said Assistant Chief Brandon G. Thundercloud Custalow. "These lands are part of our ancestral homeland and have deep cultural, historical, and spiritual significance to our Tribe. Bringing them into state trust helps ensure they remain protected for future generations of Mattaponi citizens."
The newly added parcels are located along Indian Town Road and adjoin the historic Mattaponi Reservation community. Their inclusion within the Reservation helps preserve Tribal lands, protects important natural and cultural resources, and strengthens the Tribe's ability to govern and steward its homeland.
The Mattaponi Indian Tribe expressed its appreciation to Governor Spanberger and the Commonwealth of Virginia for their continued recognition of the Tribe's unique history and government-to-government relationship with the state.
"This action represents an investment in the future of our Tribe," Custalow said. "As we continue working to preserve our homeland and acquire additional lands when opportunities arise, we remain committed to protecting the cultural heritage, natural resources, and sovereignty of the Mattaponi people."
The Mattaponi Reservation, located on the banks of the Mattaponi River in King William County, is among the oldest continuously occupied Indian reservations in North America. The Tribe continues to pursue efforts to protect its historic land base and promote the welfare of its citizens through cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, housing, economic development, and self-governance.
Media Contact
Sara Jefferson
Assistant Tribal Administrator
Mattaponi Indian Tribe
1314 Mattaponi Reservation Circle
West Point, VA 23181