Mansion
About The Mansion & History
History Mansion in Nashville
225 Years of History
Belle Air is significant because of its architecture. A representative of the great houses of the well-to-do Southern landowners in the first half of the nineteenth century, it remains as an example of these houses which once were abundant but have now mostly disappeared from the scene.
It was important that Belle Air be preserved for the benefit of those who might not otherwise be able to come in contact with such an example of the architecture of the Old South. Many families prominent in the social and economic development of Nashville have either lived in or been entertained in Belle Air.
After a challenging but rewarding restoration process, we’re excited to announce that Belle Air is open to the public! The mansion has always been a private residence, but now it’s been transformed into a bed and breakfast for visitors to enjoy.
In The Beginning
1784: The Beginning
In 1790, James Mulherin built his home on a parcel of land granted to him in 1784. Belle Air began as a four-room structure made of hand-made brick with lime and horsehair mortar.
1832: Belle Air Comes to Life
The main building was built c. 1832 by Joseph Clay and Elizabeth Harding, on land given to them by her father, John Harding of Belle Meade.
1838: Expansion
The mansion was sold in 1838 to banker William Nichol and his wife Julia Lytle, who expanded the Federal-style house with one story wings and added Greek Revival ornamentation.
Mansion Restoration
Saving Belle Air, a Historic Nashville Property
1971: Protected from Progress
Following the Briley Parkway construction of the 1960s, Belle Air was put on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
2014: An Endangered Treasure
In 2014, Belle Air was listed on “Historic Nashville” as one of Nashville’s 9 most endangered properties. The property was listed for sale, drawing interest from developers who wanted to tear it down.
2016: Restoration
We (Lewis and Connie James) purchased the property in August of 2016, embarking on a long but rewarding journey to restore the mansion to its former glory.
2019: Open to the Public
The restoration project is complete. Belle Air Mansion is open for the world to experience.
Belle Air Mansion Today
Our restoration of the property has been handled with the utmost care and the deepest respect for Belle Air’s history. From its stunning chandeliers to the original rosewood doors, visiting the mansion is sure to take you on a journey back in time.
Conveniently located 5 miles from downtown Nashville and just 10 minutes from Nashville International Airport, Belle Air offers easy access to the city’s top restaurants, music venues, and attractions — while providing a peaceful retreat away from the bustle.
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Belle Air Mansion is not to be missed, a beautiful, relaxing place, one of the best B&Bs ever!
It was clear there was very thoughtful attention to considering the needs of the group. Then, the mansion and grounds were simply amazing. The best of a well-appointed bed and breakfast (combined with a time-travel machine) that takes you back to the best of an 1880s Greek Revival antebellum mansion. Would love to have the opportunity to visit again!