The 100th anniversary of the Great fire on Wharf Hill changed the town from a peanut industry to hams. At the time, Smithfield had no fire department, but thanks to the fire departments of Suffok and Newport News, the fire was kept from spreading downtown and destroying more buildings. To learn more about this important event in the town's history mark your calendar for the following events:

Christ Episcopal Church, 111 S. Church Street - The church will sound the "alarm" and ring the bell at 10 am, 11 am and 12 noon. After you visit the Farmer's Market, stroll over to Christ Episcopal for a free 11 am presentation on the preservation of Christ Episcopal by Bill Egan, Engineer.  At 1 pm enjoy a free presentation on the 1921 Fire by Albert Burckard followed by a short walking tour. End your afternoon with free, live music at the church from 2 to 4 pm featuring music of 1921.                                                                    

Smithfield Fire Department will be at the Farmer's Market, in front of BSV Bank, 115 Main Street. Bring the kids downtown to visit a firetruck, meet firemen and learn about fire safety from 9 am to 12 noon                                  

Isle of Wight Museum, 103 Main Street - Free admission this day (Aug 21) open 10 am to 4 pm. View photos from the Great Fire exhibit and see the world's oldest peanut (and ham).

1750 Courthouse, 130 Main Street - Visit with period-dressed interpreters sharing the history of the time (1920's) and view photos of the courthouse, which was a residence at the time, as well as see an automobile from 1921 on display.

Admission
Free