Smithfield Historic District

Smithfield Historic District is a preserved area in Virginia containing around 289 buildings spread along the Pagan River and Little Creek. The structures display different building styles from various periods, ranging from residences to shops and farm outbuildings.

The area took shape during the 1700s, with the oldest surviving structures dating back to the mid-18th century. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, marking official recognition of its historical importance.

The district reflects how residents organized their daily lives through the placement of homes, shops, and gathering spaces along the river. These buildings show the social relationships and economic activities that held the community together.

The area is best explored on foot, with buildings located closely enough to walk between them easily. Visitors should take time to notice both the main houses and smaller outbuildings, since they all contribute to understanding the place.

The district preserves a notable collection of outbuildings such as corncribs, smokehouses, and barns that visitors often overlook. These smaller structures are equally important as the main houses because they show how people actually lived and worked in this rural setting.