Belle Grove, Inc. Information

Belle Grove, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Non-profit organization who's mission is to preserve Belle Grove Plantation and Bowman's Fort. Museum Shop We carry books about the Shenandoah Valley and its history and continually receive new and exciting things. We invite you stop in and enjoy a truly unique shopping experience! History of Belle Grove Belle Grove, an authentic 1797 Manor House, was built by Major Isaac Hite and his wife Nelly Madison Hite, sister of President James Madison. Major Hite, grandson of Shenandoah Valley pioneer Jost Hite, expanded his original 483 acres to a prosperous 7500 acre plantation, growing wheat, raising cattle and Merino sheep, and operating a large distillery and several mills. Based on design principles of Thomas Jefferson, this elegant Federal era Manor House features intricate, hand carved woodwork and a restored interior. The house was constructed of native limestone quarried on the property. Currently restored to Belle Grove’s early 19th century elegance, the house is remarkably unscathed despite more than two centuries years of turmoil and triumph. Belle Grove was used as a headquarters by Union General Phillip Sheridan during the Civil War Valley Campaign of 1864 and was at the very center of the pivotal Battle of Cedar Creek. After a surprise attack by Confederate General Jubal Early in the early hours of October 19, 1864, General Sheridan quickly regained the territory, securing the Valley for the Union and boosting President Abraham Lincoln’s chances for re-election. Today, Belle Grove is a National Trust for Historic Preservation site and the centerpiece of the new Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park. Situated on 283 of the original 483 acres, Belle Grove showcases the Shenandoah Valley’s breathtaking mountain views.