OLD-FREDERICK-CO-VA-L Archives

From: <>
Subject: Bull Skin/Smithfield/Middleway/Wizard Clip
Date: Tue, 2 Feb 1999 01:30:12 EST

I am trying to find information on the area variously known as Bull Skin,
Smithfield, Middleway and Wizard Clip VA/WV. I understand it is in present
day Jefferson County near the Berkeley County and Virginia line. The Board of
Geographic Names told me the area was originally called Bull Skin, after the
creek by the same name, but was later changed to Smithfield or Smithfield
Estates. Its name was later changed to Middleway because it was halfway
between Winchester and Harpers Ferry and because there was already a
Smithfield somewhere else in Virginia and the mail was getting lost.

Supposedly, in the late 1700s or early 1800s there was a famous haunting there
by a demon who cut up things with a pair of scissors, after which the
residents began calling the place "Wizards Clip" or "Clip" and began calling
themselves "Clippers."

My fourth g grandfather, Samuel FRENCH resided there from before 1792 until at
least 1820 and My third g grandfather, Walter W. FRENCH" and his sisters were
born there. I would appreciate any leads on finding any history of the area.
I have seen reference to a "Middleway Historical Society" but I haven't had
any luck at finding an address or a website.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jay French

This thread:

• Bull Skin/Smithfield/Middleway/Wizard Clip by <>