Historic Bellevue Mansion: A Greek Revival Gem
Experience Southern history and architectural grandeur at Bellevue Mansion, a beautifully preserved Greek Revival landmark in LaGrange, Georgia.
Bellevue, a stately antebellum home located in the heart of LaGrange, Georgia, stands as a testament to the elegance of the Old South [3, 5]. Constructed between 1852 and 1855 for Benjamin Harvey Hill, a prominent lawyer and U.S. Senator, the mansion is a superb example of Greek Revival architecture [3, 7, 8]. Its design, attributed to an architect known only as Taylor, features six fluted Ionic columns, a grand two-story portico, and intricate interior details such as carved wood cornices and Italian marble mantles [4, 5]. Originally the centerpiece of a 1,200-acre plantation, Bellevue witnessed the comings and goings of dignitaries, including Confederate President Jefferson Davis [3, 4]. The estate's gates, once located on Broad Street, were removed in 1905 and now reside at LaGrange College; interestingly, they are identical to those at the White House, having been ordered from the same catalog [3]. In 1942, the Fuller E. Callaway Foundation gifted Bellevue to the LaGrange Woman's Club, which continues to maintain the property [3, 5]. Today, Bellevue operates as a historic house museum, furnished in the style of the 1850s [4, 5]. Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved rooms, including the upstairs with its half-tester bed and collection of period pieces [5]. The surrounding grounds, with their traditional Southern dogwoods and magnolias, add to the ambiance of this historic landmark [6]. Bellevue is also a contributing structure in the Broad Street Historic District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places [4, 5].
Local tips
- Call ahead to check the tour schedule, as hours may vary [3].
- Allow at least 1.5 hours for a comprehensive tour of the mansion and grounds [6].
- Take time to admire the architectural details, both inside and outside the mansion [5].
- Consider visiting other nearby historic sites, such as Hills & Dales Estate, to enrich your experience [7, 8].
A brief summary to Historic Bellevue Mansion
- 204 Ben Hill St, LaGrange, Georgia, 30240, US
- +1706-884-1832
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
- Thursday 10 am-1 pm
- Friday 10 am-1 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
Getting There
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Walking
Bellevue is located on Ben Hill Street in downtown LaGrange, a short walk from LaGrange College and other downtown attractions [3, 18, 19]. From Lafayette Square, walk south on Bull Street, then turn left onto Ben Hill Street. The mansion will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Troup Transit provides public transportation in LaGrange [15]. Check the Troup Transit website or call for schedules and routes. From the LaGrange Bus Station [12, 16], you can take a local bus to a stop near Lafayette Square and then walk to Bellevue. A single ride fare is approximately $2 [15]. Troup Connects is also available to elderly adults and those with disabilities [15].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in LaGrange [13, 14]. From a central location like Lafayette Square, a short taxi or ride-share trip to Bellevue will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and distance [13].
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Driving
Bellevue is located at 204 Ben Hill Street, LaGrange, GA 30240. Free parking is available behind the home [3]. From Interstate 85, take Exit 18 toward LaGrange and follow the signs to downtown. Once in downtown, follow Broad Street to Ben Hill Street. Turn onto Ben Hill Street; Bellevue will be on the left.
