Hassinger/Waters House

When one talks of trail magic they might tell you of a story that would blow your mind. Maybe they will tell you of a moment when something wonderful happened or that in a much needed obstacle a little package of encouragement popped out of the path. They might even tell you of a time when a needed shelter peeked through the brushes after a long day of working. On this same path there is nothing like a place to lay your head after a long walk through the mountains. Nestled in the quiet mountain town of Konnarock, Va is a 1910 farmhouse built by the Hassingers of Hassinger Lumber Company. The house was built in 1910 as a personal residence for the Hassinger family. In 1906, the Hassingers built one of the largest sawmill operations on the east coast in Konnarock VA. At its peak, the mill employed more than 400 people and supplied the community with electricity, running water and a school. Legend has it that the decking boards from the Titanic came from this mill. The Hassingers were also instrumental in completing the railway from Jefferson, NC to Damascus, VA which is now known as part of the "Virginia Creeper Trail."

Check out this amazing site on Damascus, VA and the Hassinger legacy

The house on the hill was made with virgin timbers from the mill (the joists and framing are native hemlock) and was acquired by T. L. Waters in the 1950's. Mr. Waters, grandfather of the current owner Bruce Waters, worked for the Hassingers from 1916-1928, at which time he bought the general store/post office/railway office from the Hassingers. He served as postmaster in Konnarock from 1928-1960. The general store building, which is just down the hill from the home, is still in the Waters family and serves as a retreat and music venue for the Waters family and their friends.

Check out the website for this house here

The 2800+ sq. feet historic home is now for sale. It’s 4 BR, 2-1/2 baths and looks out to 360 degrees of rolling mountains including Mt. Rogers and Whitetop. It is right around the corner from the famous Green Cove rail depot O. Winston Link photographed. For more info on the house and the history please contact Bruce Waters at bwaters@npr.org.