Edison and Ford Winter Estates | Naples City

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates, located in Fort Myers, Florida, offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history and legacies of two of America's most prominent inventors: Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The 20-acre estate provides a fascinating look into their personal lives, as well as their contributions to technology, innovation, and industry.

History and Overview

Edison first purchased the property in 1885, building a winter home called Seminole Lodge where he spent much of his later years conducting experiments and relaxing with his family. In 1916, Edison’s close friend, Henry Ford, bought a neighboring property called The Mangoes, which he used as his own winter retreat. The two men, along with their families, often spent time together at the estates, and their influence is seen throughout the property today.

Key Features of the Estates

Historic Homes:

Seminole Lodge: Edison’s winter home, which he used as both a residence and a place for experimentation.

The Mangoes: Henry Ford’s home, which is located adjacent to Edison’s estate. Ford's home features many original furnishings and artifacts.

Guest House: Edison's guest accommodations, where prominent visitors such as inventor Harvey Firestone stayed.

Caretaker’s House: The living quarters for the estate’s staff.

Botanic Research Laboratory: A laboratory where Edison conducted his experiments, particularly in relation to rubber-producing plants. This was an important part of his work on alternative sources for rubber, which was vital for industrial purposes.

Museum:
The museum on the grounds contains exhibits that provide insights into Edison and Ford's lives, their inventions, and their connection to each other. It houses numerous artifacts, including one of Henry Ford’s Model T cars, a gift from Ford to Edison. Other exhibits highlight Edison’s invention of the light bulb, phonograph, and motion pictures, and Ford’s revolution of the automobile industry and the assembly line.

Gardens:
The estate boasts beautiful gardens, which cover more than 20 acres and feature more than 1,750 plant species. The gardens are designed in different sections, each representing various aspects of horticulture:

Banyan Tree: One of the highlights is a 400-foot banyan tree that was planted in the 1920s, which is one of the largest of its kind in the country.

Moonlight Garden: A garden designed by landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman, featuring plants that bloom in the moonlight.

Palm Garden: The estate features more than 100 species of palms, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts.

Botanic Research Laboratory:
This lab was a critical part of Edison’s experiments with rubber-producing plants, where he tried to find alternative sources of rubber. The lab showcases Edison’s continuous pursuit of innovative solutions and his impact on the American economy.

Tours and Experiences

Self-Guided Tours: Visitors can explore the estate at their own pace, with tickets providing access to the historic homes, gardens, and museum exhibits. Self-guided tours allow you to spend as much time as you like in each area.

Guided Tours: For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available, offering a 60-minute walk through the historic homes and estates, with knowledgeable guides providing detailed stories about Edison’s and Ford’s lives, their innovations, and the impact they had on the world. Specialty tours are also offered, such as the Inside-the-Homes and Inside-the-Lab tours, which provide deeper insights into specific areas of the estate.

Audio Tour: Visitors can also enhance their experience with a free audio tour, available through the Edison Ford app or via a special phone number at the estate. The audio tour is available in multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish, and French.

Visitor Information

Location: The Edison and Ford Winter Estates are located at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901.

Hours: The estate is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last ticket being sold at 4:30 PM. The estate is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $25

Teens (13-19): $20

Children (6-12): $15

Children (5 & under): Free

Guided Tour Fees: An additional fee applies for guided tours, with adults paying $30, teens $25, and children (6-12) $18.

Accessibility

The estate is wheelchair accessible, with the option of using beach and trail wheelchairs. Visitors can also take advantage of free parking, which includes accommodations for RVs and buses. For those who wish to plan ahead, tickets can be purchased in advance through the official website.

Special Attractions and Events

Throughout the year, the estate hosts various events and educational programs, including:

Holiday Nights: A festive celebration of the holiday season with thousands of lights decorating the historic homes and gardens.

Educational Programs: The estate offers classes, workshops, and lectures related to history, gardening, and innovation.

Gift Shop and Nursery

The estate features a Garden Shoppe, where visitors can purchase a range of items, from plants and garden tools to unique Edison and Ford-themed gifts. The estate’s nursery offers a selection of plants, including herbs, perennials, and specialty plants such as pineapple mint.

Conclusion

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates provide a fascinating look into the lives of two of the most influential figures in American history. With a combination of historic homes, extensive gardens, a museum filled with exhibits about their work and personal lives, and opportunities to learn through guided tours and educational programs, the estates offer a rich and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of gardening, or simply curious about the lives of Edison and Ford, this is a must-visit destination in Fort Myers.