Belle Boyd Cottage - Front Royal

The Belle Boyd Cottage is located on Chester Street in Front Royal, Virginia.  Although named after the notorious southern spy, the home was actually the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Stewart, Boyd's uncle and aunt.  The home was originally located behind the Fishback Hotel, which once stood on East Main Street, and was run by the Stewarts.  Boyd was sent there early in the Civil War and shortly after the Union Army moved in and occupied the town.  They used the hotel as their headquarters and Boyd learned the fine art of spying as she was able to eavesdrop on the soldiers during the course of her normal functions in the hotel.  Her most significant contribution to the war effort at this point was in personally delivering a message to Stonewall Jackson, in May of 1862, regarding troop movements in the area.  Jackson was able to alter his plans and thus secure a victory in what might have turned out a disatrous loss.  The Union Army soon had their eyes on Boyd and she was arrested six times during the war for her acts of spying, however she was able to secure a release each time and avoid the hangman's noose.  She survived the war and went on to wed three times and have several children.  Her war efforts earned her the nickname Cleopatra of the Secession.  The cottage was moved from its original location in 1982 and now stands behind Ivy Lodge.

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