In modern times, the former site is located off the Colonial Parkway next to the York River and abuts Naval Weapons Station Yorktown.

[2] In 1630, the Virginia Colony made the decision to plant a settlement on the York River: "... for the securing & taking in of a tract of Land called ye fforest bordering uppon the cheife residence of ye Pamunkey King the most dangerous head of the Indian enemy ..."[3]John West (governor) received a land grant for this purpose, 600 acres "on the east side of Felgates".

In 1640, West was ordered to England, along with neighbor John Utie, Samuel Matthews (captain), and William Peirce (burgess) to answer charges in the Star Chamber.

Plantation at this time, and using slave labor, grew in fame for producing luxury tobacco.

[11] The Plantation was known as "Bellfield" by 1811, when it was advertised for sale as "Belfield, 1.000 acres in York Co., the only estate where the famous E.D.