The Salamander Collection features a selection of four- and five-star level hotels and resorts owned or managed by Salamander Hospitality, the entrepreneurial company owned by noted businesswoman and philanthropist Sheila C. Johnson.
The origin for using the word “Salamander” as it relates to Johnson’s hospitality interests can be traced to Bruce Sundlun, a war hero, successful businessman and leading politician, who became a two-term Governor of Rhode Island. During World War II , Sundlun’s plane crashed over Nazi-occupied Belgium. For months he evaded capture, before a resistance group recruited Sundlun and gave him the code name “Salamander” after the amphibian that can mythically walk through fire.
Years later, Sundlun bought a 200-acre estate in Virginia and named it “Salamander.” The farm’s name was changed by a subsequent owner, but when Johnson purchased the estate, she inquired about renaming the property. In addition to finding Sundlun’s story inspiring, Johnson discovered that for centuries the salamander has symbolized strength, courage and fortitude – traits with which she has identified throughout her personal and business life.
Sundlun granted permission for the name “Salamander Farm” to be restored to the estate and Johnson continues to expand the use of “Salamander” in her businesses: Salamander Farm, Salamander Hospitality, Market Salamander, Salamander Touch and Salamander Resort & Spa, which will complete construction in spring 2011. Salamander Hospitality’s unwavering commitment is to provide guests with a highly personalized experience at each and every one of our properties.
