Just a few minutes away from The Inn at Vaucluse Spring, Belle Grove Plantation is a late 18th-century estate in the Shenandoah Valley. This authentic 1797 manor house was constructed by the sister of President James Madison and her husband, Major Isaac Hite. The surrounding land was once a 7,500-acre plantation, which Hite used to harvest wheat, raise cattle and sheep, and operate a large distillery and many mills. Now, you can tour Belle Grove Plantation and discover more about the property’s rich past!
Find out more about all of the historic attractions near The Inn at Vaucluse Spring when you download our free Vacation Guide. It offers some great recommendations for tours, restaurants, spas, and more in the area. Belle Grove Plantation is just one of many attractions!
Discover Belle Grove Plantation History
The history of Belle Grove Plantation goes back to 1797, when construction on the grand mansion was complete. Built with limestone quarried on the original property of 483 acres, the Belle Grove Plantation house was a statement of wealth and prosperity. Isaac and Nelly Hite lived in the estate and had three children together, with two living into adulthood. After Nelly died in 1802, Major Hite married again to Ann Tunstall Maury and had 10 more children. As the family grew, so did the land that was acquired around it. The Belle Grove Plantation was expanded to 7,500 acres! On this land was a general store, gristmill, sawmill, and distillery.
Hite died in 1836, and the mansion was sold out of the family. It was occupied several times during the Civil War and was in the center of the Battle of Cedar Creek. In 1907, the Brumback family bought what remained of the farm before Francis Welles Hunnewell purchased it in 1929. Preservation efforts were put in place at this time, leaving Belle Grove Plantation standing as one of the premier historic mansions of the Shenandoah Valley. Original architectural elements and details still survive to this day!
Touring Belle Grove Plantation
You will discover even more specifics about the history of the plantation and its owners when you arrive for a tour. As the region’s only authentic antebellum plantation, Belle Grove offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Guided tours of the Manor House last between 45 minutes and one hour and are led by knowledgeable docents. You can also embark on a self-guided tour of the grounds. And, don’t forget to visit the museum shop for some souvenirs and gifts. Discover more about pricing and hours by visiting the Belle Grove Plantation website. Then, plan your visit!
Stay Minutes Away at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring!
The Inn at Vaucluse Spring is conveniently located just down the road from the Belle Grove Plantation. Stay near this historic attraction by seeking accommodations at our charming bed and breakfast retreat. Our two-story Mill House Studio on a reflective pond is the perfect private romantic getaway, with its own cottage garden and a water’s edge patio. Meanwhile, The Gallery is an ideal two-story, one-bedroom escape overlooking the pool and rolling pastures beyond. Discover which of our accommodations suits your vacation needs best. See you soon in the Shenandoah Valley!