The transition of an old dwelling, particularly an antebellum home, from the past into the present can often be a tricky affair.

If there is any degree of indifference on the part of the custodians, the building will glaringly reveal all of its blemishes and decay.

But if tender care has been continuously lavished on the structure, it will enter today’s world with its unique architecture and aura of refinement still intact, and even enhanced.

Such is the case with The Fairfax House, situated on East Main in Franklin. Constructed in 1852 by John B. Murphy, the mansion is now a bed and breakfast.

Originally called Shady Retreat, the name was changed to recognize Miss Fairfax Foster, one of the remaining members of that family to live there.

The original one-story home later received an additional floor and several important renovations. The large building now boasts six bedrooms, two on the ground floor and four upstairs. There’s even a single lane bowling alley. Gary Blum, the present owner, has wisely preserved the aged structure’s personality without sacrificing the latest up-to-date conveniences.

However, a dwelling like this will only be an attractive, but empty, ornament if it doesn’t have very special individuals to infuse it with warmth. In this respect, Fairfax House is indeed fortunate.

Cheryl Kemper, the inn’s manager, has been taking care of the place for almost five years.

“This is the kind of job where you either like it or not,” she admitted. “And I happen to love it because I truly enjoy meeting people.”

She has a strong background in the hospitality business. For several years she helped her late husband in managing Hanson House Bed and Breakfast, another Franklin landmark.

“My husband taught me to make sure that my guests were always comfortable,” Cheryl confessed.

She explained that most of the overnighters come from throughout the country, while foreign visitors are usually French or Canadian. But no matter where they’re from, their stay at Fairfax House likely will be a memorable one.

The mansion is blessed with high ceilings, lavish decor, and even original chandeliers. The elegance that hangs in the air is as palpable as the exquisite woodwork.

Accenting the house are four massive columns crowned by Corinthian capitals. And complementing this architectural ensemble is a vast lawn that leads to Main Street.

Cheryl stated that “… in spite of the age of the house, our guests like the coziness and the family atmosphere.”

Incidentally, whenever occupancy is high, the hostess gets extra help from her friend Lora Ladd. Also assisting her is Cheryl’s 10-year-old granddaughter Aidan Tyler.

The youngster remarked that she particularly likes meeting people that “… come from far away to stay with us.”

“Whenever Aidan’s here,” Cheryl said, “she works hard. She has perfect manners with our guests and is … a joy to be around.”

There’s no denying that Fairfax House retains her untarnished beauty. She continues to waltz into the future, still the belle of the bayou.

And all this is due, in very great part, to Gary, Cheryl, Lora and little Aidan.

O.J. GONZALEZ is a native and resident of Jeanerette. He graduated from USL in printmaking and photography and his photographs have appeared in publications in Louisiana, Alaska, Canada, New Zealand and England.