Belle Grove is located in the northern Shenandoah Valley near Middletown, Virginia. It was the home Major Isaac Hite and his wife Nelly Madison Hite, sister of President James Madison. Major Hite, grandson of Shenandoah Valley Pioneer Jost Hite, used enslaved labor to expand his original 483 acres to a prosperous 7500 acre plantation, growing wheat, raising livestock, and operating a large distillery and several mills. The Manor House, completed in 1797, was the centerpiece of the property and is open for touring today. MORE
CalendarFull Calendar
October 1, 2025 – Belle Grove remains open during government shutdown
Belle Grove operates as usual during the federal government shutdown. However, the National Park… more
Belle Grove operates as usual during the federal government shutdown. However, the National Park… more
Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19 – Battle of Cedar Creek Anniversary
The Battle of Cedar Creek (October 19, 1864) will be commemorated at Belle Grove with interpretation… more
The Battle of Cedar Creek (October 19, 1864) will be commemorated at Belle Grove with interpretation… more
Sunday, October 19, 3:30-4:00 – Kneading in Silence: A Glimpse into the Life of the Enslaved Cook Judah
A free 30-minute presentation discusses the life of Judah, an enslaved cook of Belle Grove. more
A free 30-minute presentation discusses the life of Judah, an enslaved cook of Belle Grove. more