In the heart of the historic town of Smithfield, Virginia, stands the Smithfield Inn, a building rich in colonial history and local lore. Established in 1752, the Smithfield Inn has served as a tavern, a residence, and a hotel over its long history, hosting guests from all walks of life. Known for its connection to the region’s early settlers and the famous Smithfield ham industry, the inn has long been a gathering place for travelers. However, not all of those who checked in seem to have ever truly left.

The Smithfield Inn’s reputation as a haunted site has grown over the years, fueled by stories from guests and staff who claim to have experienced paranormal activity within its historic walls. With its centuries-old architecture and ties to the colonial past, it’s no surprise that some believe the inn is home to more than just living guests.

A History of the Smithfield Inn

Originally built as a tavern, the Smithfield Inn was one of the first establishments of its kind in the small but bustling town of Smithfield. Over the years, the inn has undergone many changes, both in ownership and in structure, yet it retains much of its original colonial charm. The inn has hosted notable figures in Virginia’s history, including soldiers, politicians, and merchants who were drawn to the area’s thriving industry and strategic location along the Pagan River.

The inn’s long history of providing food, drink, and lodging to travelers has created a rich tapestry of personal stories, some of which may explain the reported hauntings. While there are no specific records of violent deaths or tragedies within the inn itself, the building has seen countless guests come and go, many with their own struggles and personal sorrows. Some believe the residual energy of these guests remains in the inn, giving rise to the ghostly encounters reported by visitors today.

The Phantom Guests of Room 5

One of the most commonly reported hauntings at the Smithfield Inn takes place in Room 5, a guest room located on the second floor of the historic building. Guests staying in this room have reported a range of paranormal phenomena, from the sound of footsteps in the hallway to objects moving on their own. The most unnerving reports come from those who claim to have seen a shadowy figure standing at the foot of the bed late at night, only for it to disappear when they switch on the light.

Some visitors describe the figure as a man dressed in old-fashioned clothing, possibly dating back to the 18th century, though his identity remains a mystery. Staff at the inn have reported similar sightings, and some refuse to enter Room 5 alone after dark. Whether the apparition is the spirit of a former guest or perhaps an innkeeper from the past, his presence has made a lasting impression on those who have encountered him.

In addition to these visual sightings, there are frequent reports of unexplained cold spots in Room 5, as well as the sensation of being watched. Some guests have even reported hearing the faint sound of a man’s voice, as though he is speaking quietly from a nearby room, though no other guests are around.

The Woman in the Dining Room

Another well-known haunting at the Smithfield Inn involves the dining room, where a spectral woman is said to appear. Dressed in clothing typical of the late 19th century, this apparition has been spotted by both guests and staff, often seated at one of the tables near the windows. She is described as having a calm, almost sad demeanor, and though she does not interact with the living, her presence is often unsettling.

One particular incident occurred during a quiet afternoon when a guest saw the woman sitting at a table alone. The guest assumed she was simply another diner, until the woman vanished before their eyes. Similar sightings have been reported over the years, with witnesses describing the same details: an elegantly dressed woman, sitting in silence, who disappears when approached.

It’s unclear who this woman might be, but some speculate she could be the spirit of a long-departed guest or possibly a former employee of the inn. Her connection to the building remains a mystery, but her repeated appearances have solidified her place in the inn’s ghostly history.

The Unseen Trickster

Aside from the apparitions, the Smithfield Inn is known for its playful and sometimes mischievous hauntings. Staff and guests alike have reported small but strange occurrences that seem to suggest the presence of an unseen trickster. Objects are often moved without explanation, particularly in the kitchen and dining areas. Silverware has been found rearranged, chairs are sometimes shifted around, and glasses or plates have been known to fall off tables without anyone near them.

One story involves a former innkeeper who claimed that the lights in the kitchen would turn on by themselves late at night, often accompanied by the sound of laughter or faint music, as though an invisible party were taking place. Guests who have stayed overnight have also reported hearing doors opening and closing in the hallways, even when no other guests were present.

Though these occurrences are generally harmless, they have contributed to the inn’s reputation as a haunted establishment. Paranormal investigators who have visited the Smithfield Inn have recorded unusual electromagnetic readings and captured EVP (electronic voice phenomena) recordings of unexplained voices, though nothing definitively malevolent has ever been documented.

A Historic Haunting

Despite its ghostly reputation, the Smithfield Inn remains a popular destination for those seeking both a taste of history and, perhaps, an encounter with the supernatural. Its blend of colonial architecture, rich history, and well-known hauntings have made it a focal point for local ghost tours, drawing both skeptics and believers alike.

The inn has embraced its haunted past, with many visitors returning year after year in the hopes of catching a glimpse of one of its famous spirits. Whether it’s the shadowy figure in Room 5, the woman in the dining room, or the unseen trickster who seems to enjoy moving objects, the Smithfield Inn’s ghostly residents continue to captivate those who pass through its doors.

Conclusion

The Smithfield Inn, with its centuries of history and generations of guests, remains one of the most haunted locations in Smithfield. The spirits said to inhabit the inn offer a glimpse into the past, where the line between the living and the dead seems to blur. Whether these hauntings are the result of unresolved emotions, lingering energy, or simply the power of local folklore, the Smithfield Inn’s reputation as a haunted landmark is well-deserved.