What is the ham capital of the world?

The neighboring town of Smithfield, Virginia, known as the “ham capital of the world” and “Hamtown,” is one of the biggest hubs for ham production. Smithfield is also home to Smithfield Foods, a world-famous name in the food industry.

Where is Smithfield ham from?

The Virginia General Assembly revised the definition of Genuine Smithfield Ham to be processed, treated, smoked, aged and cured for a minimum period of six months within the corporate limits of the town of Smithfield, Virginia.

What is Smithfield, Virginia famous for?

Smithfield is renowned for its mouthwatering hams, which have become a signature culinary delight. The town's long-standing tradition of curing and smoking ham has garnered worldwide acclaim.

Are there any famous people from Smithfield, VA?

Is Smithfield, VA a good place to retire?

Retiring in Smithfield

Small town charm, rich in history, beautiful architecture, waterfront living, and the best smoked ham this side of the Atlantic – these are just a few of the reasons to love Smithfield, VA!

China and the 'Ham Capital of the World'

Is Smithfield, VA growing or shrinking?

Between 2022 and 2023 the population of Smithfield, VA grew from 8,625 to 8,729, a 1.21% increase and its median household income grew from $101,081 to $110,182, a 9% increase.

How far is Smithfield, VA from the ocean?

Distance between Virginia Beach to Smithfield, Virginia is 45 miles if you take the fastest route via I-264 W. It takes about 53 minutes (approximately) drive to reach your destination.

Is Smithfield, VA worth visiting?

Long known for its hams, the town also boasts a rich history, picturesque Main Street, and a vibrant arts scene. Savor a visit to Genuine Smithfield where you'll feel as if you've come home.

Why is Smithfield called Smithfield?

The Town of Smithfield was named after John Smith, “The Miller,” who was granted land by Roger Williams. Smith was one of the original party of six men headed by Roger Williams that formed the first settlement in Rhode Island.

What is one famous person from Virginia?

Take a deep dive with me into the histories of some famous Virginians. The founding fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison all grew up in Virginia — Washington near Fredericksburg, Jefferson along the Rivanna River and Madison in Orange County.

Who owns Smithfield in Virginia?

But in 2013, WH Group, formerly known as Shuanghui International Holding Limited, one of China's largest meat producers, purchased Smithfield outright for $4.7 billion. It was the largest-ever Chinese acquisition of an American company, and was highly controversial in America.

What is it like to live in Smithfield, VA?

Smithfield is in Isle of Wight County. Living in Smithfield offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Many families live in Smithfield and residents tend to have moderate political views. The public schools in Smithfield are above average.

What is the oldest ham in the world?

In fact, Virginia is home to the world's oldest ham, on display in the Isle of Wight Museum in Smithfield. If you're curious to see it for yourself, the 119-year-old ham can be viewed on a live stream, appropriately named the “ham cam.”

Why is pork called ham?

The modern word ham is derived from the Old English ham or hom meaning the hollow or bend of the knee, from a Germanic base where it meant 'crooked'. It began to refer to the cut of pork derived from the hind leg of a pig around the 15th century.

What happened to Smithfield Ham?

Production of Genuine Smithfield ham was discontinued in early 2024, due to reduced demand.

Is Cook's ham made by Smithfield?

Cooks is owned by Smithfield. Aldis has the best .

What body of water is Smithfield, VA on?

Smithfield and surrounding Isle of Wight County are as old as Virginia itself, having been first colonized in 1634. Located on the banks of the Pagan River, and lying on the opposite shore of the James River, across from Jamestown, the area was soon discovered by Captain John Smith and other early settlers.

How much is the Jamestown ferry?

The ferry is free.

What ocean is the closest to Virginia?

The Virginia Eastern Shore region, situated between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, is a geographically small but ecologically and economically significant part of the Virginia coastline.

What is the cost of living in Smithfield, Virginia?

Smithfield's 2025 cost of living is $2538 per month for singles and $5588 per month for families of four.

What's the fastest growing county in the nation?

Harris County in Texas was the fastest growing county, growing by nearly 106,000 people from 2023 to 2024. Seven of the top 25 fastest growing counties were in Texas. Populations are generally growing the fastest in southern Sun Belt states that experience more sun and warmer temperatures.

What is considered the best ham in the world?

Why is ham never sold raw?

Usually the process that turns pork into ham cooks it in the process. All ham, from stores is fully cooked. There's no such thing as raw ham.

What is the oldest meat ever eaten?

Arctic Bison

The best verifiable anecdote I could find about the oldest thing ever eaten, permafrost⁠ meat, only takes you back like 0.05 million years; that was the 50,000_ya bison “Blue Babe”⁠ (WP⁠), eaten in 1984-04-06 in Alaska by paleontologist Dale Guthrie & guests (see Guthrie1990⁠):