Lifestyle: Smithfield is the county seat of Johnston County. New restaurants, businesses, industry, and economic growth are developing Smithfield into a Hub for new growth. All of the communities of Johnston County have a lot in common - southern hospitality and friendly people. Smithfield is the home of the Ham and Yam festival held annually on the first weekend in May. Food, entertainment and vendors fill the streets of downtown Smithfield. For more information, visit https://www.johnstoncountync.org/ham-and-yam-festival/.
History: Smithfield, NC, was the first town in Johnston County. It was founded near Smith's Ferry on the Neuse River, The Town of Smithfield's governing body is based on a form of government known as council-manager. The Smithfield Town Council consists of seven members and a mayor. The manager oversees the day to day operation of the policies set by the council. The population (approximately 13,000 people) continues to grow with the new job opportunities coming into the area and the new subdivisions being added to the Smithfield area. The Smithfield community is considered one of the fastest growing areas in NC. Smithfield, NC offers great connections to history, entertainment, dining, lodging, and outlet shopping, along with a generous helping of true southern hospitality. Located midway between New York and Florida on I-95 and at the cross-roads of I-95 and I-40, Johnston County connects the nation's North and South with East and West. Its location places it only a two-hour drive from Atlantic Coast Beaches and a four-hour drive from the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Fun Facts: Ava Gardner, the internationally known actress, was born and reared in eastern Johnston’s Brogden Community. She is buried in Smithfield. The Ava Gardner Museum is located on the main street of Smithfield. The inventor of Vick’s VapoRub, Lunsfored Richardson, grew up in northern Johnston and operated a drug store in Selma in the late 19th Century before relocating to Greensboro. Smithfield and Johnston County is located on the Wine and Shine Trail. See the link for more information: https://www.johnstoncountync.org/things-to-do/beer-wine-and-shine-trail/
Location: You will always find true southern hospitality in Smithfield. Dining, lodging and outlet shopping are just a few of the many amenities offered. Location of a town is important and Smithfield is located midway between New York and Florida on I-95. With the addition of the I-40 interchange a few years back, it is at the cross-roads of I-95 and I-40. Johnston County is connected to other parts of the nation: North and South with East and West. Only a short 2 hour ride to the Atlantic Ocean and a four hour drive to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
