A beautiful plantation Steve and I toured several weeks ago was
Belle Grove Plantation. Nelly Conway Madison's family home which no longer stands is where she gave birth to our fourth President of the United States and Father of our Constitution , James Madison on March 16, 1751.The home built in 1790 and sits over a part of the old foundation of Nelly Conway's family home.
Today is a Bed and Breakfast, It's Innkeepers - Brett and Michelle Darnell.
I didn't take a picture full view of the carriage side of the home, wished I had .
You can take a look at the Belle Grove plantation website and blog where you can see a better shot of the carriage side entrance of the home. Much information to be had here.
http://virginiaplantation.wordpress.com/year-of-the-virginia-historic-homes/belle-grove-plantation-at-port-conway/
http://www.bellegroveplantation.com/belle-grove-blog
We were met by Innkeeper Michelle a very gracious lady and so much information she shared with us about James Madison, Belle Grove and of the owners through the years.
just inside the front entrance.
Very welcoming foyer
Had to get a picture of the ceiling
We were invited to have a seat in this bright and cheery room on sofas that were used in filming Lincoln movie. Decorated beautifully, gold, red and blue, so pretty.
withdrawing room teacups and saucers
drapes hung so as not to hide the woodwork we were told by Michelle.
dining room
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men's withdrawing room
The bare spot in the grass is where a fountain used to be.
Looking down after ascending the stairs for the tour upstairs
upper level
Conway Suite
balcony from room
Turner Suite
French chairs
Madison Suite
Hipkins - Bernard Junior Suite
A picture of Francis Hipkins, a bride at 14 years of age to William Bernard
The picture above the mantle in this room is reminescent of the Emanual Church seen coming into Belle Grove
curved door
3 buildings to be restored are Summer kitchen, Ice house and Smoke house
6 over 9 pane window
River view side over looking Rappahannock to a place we will get lunch - River Haven
view from restaurant
to a peek of Belle Grove beyond the trees
Steve's Bratwurst
Mine - seared Romaine lettude with topping of bacon, tomato, croutons and cheese with ranch dressing
Nice way to end a pleasant trip, now off for home with Steve driving and me napping.
Sharing with Paulas no rules weekend blog party
5 comments:
Hi Betsy. I have read about Belle Grove before. Probably in Victoria magazine. What a beautiful place. You have so many historic places close by to visit. Love that red room and would love to have that blue plaid gown! They certainly didn't skimp on the food they served. Looks like you had a wonderful time and saw some very beautiful sights..Happy Sunday..Judy
Hi Betsy,
Beautiful place, but what's a plantation home with out all the wonderful historic wallpaper? Sounds, and looks, like you had a great time. Thanks for taking us along with you.
Have a great week,
Gina
wow, so many gorgeous views. such a plantation home. i wish to see it in person. too lovely!! i really enjoyed this post, Betsy. have a great week. ( :
Thanks so much Betsy, I have never heard of Bell Grove before. Your photos are fantastic! Great post, it's on our bucket list now.
Wow, these are lovely shots! We have a Belle Grove out here in the Shenandoah Valley too, and it also has a connection to the Madison family. I suppose the family favored that name.
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