Last updated: 5/9/2011
101 Main Street
Smithfield, VA 23430
Monday - Saturday
10 AM - 4 PM
Monday - Saturday
10 AM - 4 PM
The museum is closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
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J.L. Williams
phone: 757-357-0115
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Tracey Neikirk
phone: 757-356-1014
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Interpreting local history, the museum’s exhibits include prehistoric fossils, Native American and Colonial artifacts, a country store and the museum’s most notable artifact - the world’s oldest, edible cured ham. The 1902 pork product exemplifies the patented Smithfield curing process.
The Isle of Wight County Division of Historic Resources’ mission is to develop and advance an understanding of the county’s heritage by conserving, interpreting and preserving its sociological, agricultural, archaeological, cultural, military and natural history.
The Isle of Wight County Museum was founded in 1976 by a group of volunteers dedicated to the preservation of county history. The museum opened its doors to the public on Nov. 21, 1976, in the Old Gambling House, between the Old Courthouse and the Smithfield Inn.
In 1978, the museum moved to its present location in the Bank of Smithfield. Just across the street, the building was constructed in 1913 of Marvilla marble and limestone, which contains identifiable marine fossils. In 1990, the adjacent Folk Building was purchased for expansion, and in 1998, the museum became a department under county government, and at that time, a foundation was established.
Collections include: local eastern woodland Native American pieces, local history and interest, Colonial era artifacts, Civil War artifacts from local sites, material related to the ham and peanut industries.
Ledgers related to the businesses of meat packing and peanut production.
Exhibits, lectures, special events, monthly curatorial programs, programs for young children. Fees for some programs.
Owned and operated by Isle of Wight County, Va.
Access: Students, Scholars, Staff Only, Members
Appointment required: True
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