The Fairfax Cottage

The Fairfax Cottage, initially called the Waddle House, served as a hotel, general’s headquarters, and residence for the Waddle family during the 1800’s. After proprietor Captain William Sale purchased the land, including the cottage itself, he had the building enlarged and added a third floor. During Sale’s era as proprietor, the former Waddle House was known as the Nelson Cottage and later, the Hygeia House, after the Greek goddess of health due to its proximity to the Capon Spring. (This is where the name for the brand new Hygeia Bath House and Spa comes from.)

In the early 1930’s, George Zimmerman, the engineer hired by Lou Austin to survey the property he had just purchased, thought that the eastern part of the building was too dilapidated to save, as the foundation had settled. Lou Austin instead decided to fix up the house for guest use, knowing that his maintenance crews would be able to work their magic once again. In the early 1970’s second generation Austin managers decided that the Fairfax needed a large-scale makeover.

From 1970-1973, Capon crews worked on the Fairfax. They jacked up the building and installed a concrete block foundation. A fire tower with stair access to each floor was built, moving the main entrance to the rear of the building. Workers altered room partitions, allowing for the addition of two rooms, bringing the total to seventeen. Modern bathrooms and baseboard heat were added. The old linoleum floor coverings gave way to carpet, and louvered doors allowed more light into the building. The seventeen rooms, each with private bath, vary in size and layout and can accommodate two to five people each.

The expansive front porches on all three floors make great social gathering spots while watching a spirited volleyball game or kids playing in the creek.

Guest Reviews

“The Fairfax was the go-to cottage when I grew up coming to Capon with my family. It’s one of the largest buildings and sits beautifully tucked up against the mountainside, providing some seclusion, as well as spacious rooms. There are also some joined suits here, again good for family travelers. The creek runs right in front of the building and provides further peace and relaxation.” – Steve G., Washington, DC

“For many, many years my parents, then after my Father died, my mother stayed in Room #3 of the Fairfax. I always stayed in Room #4. After my Mother died in 2002, my husband and I “moved up” to Room #3, which is a large room with space for a cot if needed. The porch is a great place for before dinner drinks and even parties. I have been going to Capon for 66 years and no other place is quite like it.” – Penny S., New Bern, NC