The Atlas Obscura Podcast Our Favorite Things: World’s Oldest Edible Ham (Classic)
Aug 28, 2025
Join Sam O’Brien, Atlas Obscura’s resident food and death reporter, as he explores the fascinating world of a 120-year-old ham in Smithfield, Virginia. Discover the quirky preservation methods and the community’s endearing traditions surrounding this culinary curiosity. From playful anecdotes about its peculiar marketing to the ham's significance in local culture, the discussion is filled with humor and charm. Dive into what makes this ancient delicacy a beloved icon as it approaches its 120th birthday celebration!
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Ham As A Roadside Star
- The world's oldest ham sits in a Smithfield, Virginia museum and draws tourists as a roadside attraction.
- Jennifer England says the ham is displayed in a climate-controlled glass case with two other hams for comparison.
Ham's Grotesque Appearance
- The ham looks like a dried corpse or a leather handbag and is described as a
Curing Explains Longevity
- The ham's survival hinges on traditional curing: heavy salting, blood removal, and drying.
- Its longevity reveals the effectiveness of old preservation techniques when conditions align.