Salamander Hospitality is the newest venture of Sheila C. Johnson, successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, who formed the company in April 2005 with longtime luxury hotel and resort executive Prem Devadas.

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 month 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 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 open in spring 2012.  Salamander Hospitality’s unwavering commitment is to provide guests with a highly personalized experience at each and every one of these properties, along with the others it owns and manages.