Porto Bello (Williamsburg, Virginia) facts for kids
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Porto Bello
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Porto Bello, photograph taken approximately 1900
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | Camp Peary, York County, Virginia, United States of America |
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| Area | 15 acres (6.1 ha) |
| Built | 1773 |
| NRHP reference No. | 73002068 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | April 13, 1973 |
Porto Bello was a special hunting lodge in Virginia. It belonged to John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore. He was the very last Royal Governor of the British Colony of Virginia. A Royal Governor was like a leader chosen by the King of Great Britain.
The name "Porto Bello" reminds us of an important event. It was named after the Battle of Porto Bello. This was a big naval victory for the British in 1739, fought in Panama.
Porto Bello: A Historic Escape
Porto Bello became famous during the start of the American Revolution. This was a time when the American colonies began fighting for their freedom from British rule.
Lord Dunmore's Retreat
Lord Dunmore had to leave Williamsburg, Virginia, which was the capital at the time. He went to Porto Bello to get away from the early fighting. Later, he left Porto Bello and got on a British ship. This ship was waiting for him in the York River.
Location and Access
Today, Porto Bello is still in York County, Virginia. It is located on the land of Camp Peary. This is a special government area.
Because of its location, Porto Bello is not open to visitors. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is an important historical site in the United States.
