Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

From Mattamuskeet Goose Club

Fairfield, NC – One of North Carolina’s most cherished hunting landmarks, the Mattamuskeet Goose Club, is set to make a monumental return to its original home on the shores of Lake Mattamuskeet in Hyde County.

Founded in 1932 by 22 hunters from North and South Carolina, this iconic lodge will be relocated across the lake by Elite Structural Movers of Washington, NC, traveling 14 miles along US-264 and NC-94 to a new home at the corner of Highway 94 and North Lake Road in Fairfield.

The relocation marks more than just a physical move – it is a symbolic return to the club’s historic and cultural roots, with a new mission focused on conservation, hunting and fishing, safety, and honoring the traditions of outdoor life in Eastern North Carolina.

Spearheading the project is Michael Sumner of Gastonia, grandson of club founder E.D. “Pet” Sumner. The move has been in the works for over six years, involving collaboration with NCDOT, the Army Corps of Engineers, and dedicated community partners across Hyde County.

Michael will be joined by his son, Pet Sumner, and grandsons, Grayson Storm, & Sullivan Barkley during the relocation, reinforcing a multigenerational legacy of stewardship and tradition.

“The Mattamuskeet Goose Club is a true legacy and an important part of NC hunting history,” said Michael Sumner. “This return is about preserving heritage and sharing the outdoors with future generations.”

Once relocated, the lodge will serve as a non-profit headquarters focused on education, conservation, and community gathering. It will welcome school groups, offer a rest stop for hunters and fishers, and host events celebrating local traditions.

The story of this club – once home to governors, businessmen, and lifelong sportsmen – is being brought back to life with original bylaws, vintage photographs, and family stories. The lodge has also launched a heritage line of club-branded clothing and gear to help support the 501-C nonprofit organization. The Mattamuskeet Goose Club invites the public to witness this historic move and support its renewed mission.

Visit mattamuskeetgooseclub.com to learn more.

The relocation team will be on site (Highway 264, 4 miles west of Engelhard, NC) on Wednesday, May 28th at 8:00 AM to begin the long trip across this iconic lake to the Club’s new home at 104 North Lake Road, Fairfield.

PUNGO_mattamuskeet goose club_fact sheet