Smithfield, County seat in Johnston County, North Carolina.
Smithfield is the county seat of Johnston County in North Carolina, located along the Neuse River. The town contains commercial districts, residential neighborhoods, and administrative buildings, with the Carolina Premium Outlets serving as a major retail destination nearby.
The town grew around Smith's ferry and became the county seat in 1777, replacing the earlier administrative center of Hinton's Quarter. This change marked a shift in where Johnston County's government operated and conducted its affairs.
The Rudy Theatre hosts performances throughout the year, bringing the community together for music and entertainment events. These shows reflect the local interest in the arts and public gathering spaces.
Interstate highways 95 and 40 provide easy access to the town by car from surrounding regions. The Carolina Premium Outlets is straightforward to reach and offers a full day of shopping for visitors.
The North Carolina state legislature met here for official sessions during 1779 and 1780, a period when the nation was establishing itself. This placed the town at the center of state governance during a formative moment in American history.
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