Edison and Ford Winter Estates, House museum and botanical garden in Fort Myers, United States
Edison and Ford Winter Estates is a dual property along the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers that includes two residences, a botanical garden with tropical plants, and historic research buildings. The grounds stretch along the riverfront and contain pathways through beds of palms, orchids, and crops from different climate zones.
The inventor purchased the land in 1885 and built his home, where he spent every winter until his death in 1931. His neighbor bought the adjacent property in 1916, and both worked there on experimental projects during the warm months.
The first winter home is a wood structure prefabricated in Maine and shipped to Florida by schooner. The second reveals details from the automobile era and how both men spent their leisure time away from factories.
The museum sits in downtown Fort Myers and is reachable on foot from several neighborhoods. Visitors should bring light clothing, water, and a hat because of the humidity and sun.
A giant rubber tree with aerial roots forming a natural pavilion stands at the center of the garden. The tree was planted as a gift by a tire manufacturer and has spread across several property lines.
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