The Edison & Ford Winter Estates and Museum are well worth the $25 per person fee to have a guided tour! This Banyan tree, one of the largest in the U.S., was planted by Edison on the 20 acres where the Estates, Museum and gardens are located.
Thomas Edison purchased the property in 1885 because bamboo trees are plentiful and he used them in his light bulbs to extend their life. He built two homes on the property. Henry Ford was one of his good friends and bought the property next door. They’re located on the Caloosahatchee River. They both loved nature and planted a wide variety of flowers, trees and plants.
The views are gorgeous!
The entire place is camera friendly and although you’re prohibited from entering the homes, there are areas to view some of the rooms.
As you can see, they’ve decorated for the holidays.
The museum was impressive…not only with the knowledge it conveys, but also in its aesthetic nature.
An “electric pen” looks like fun!
There were lots of family photos and movies to watch. Edison was a workaholic, so it’s nice to see him enjoying time with his family.
My “artsy” shot…
Hope you enjoyed your “virtual” tour! Bye, bye!
Related articles
- Does This Test Tube Hold Thomas Edison’s Last Breath? (slate.com)
- Artist Stephen Hayford completes diorama of Edison Botanical Laboratory (examiner.com)
- 1878 Thomas Edison Audio Unveiled (abcnews.go.com)
- Researchers recover Edison audio from 1878 (metronews.ca)
Sherry Lachelle Travels 
Fabulous! Took my kids there last year on Spring Break! You are having a great time on your vacation.
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Yes…it’s been great so far and there’s still more to come! 🙂
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Hi, I wanted to let you know that I awarded you with the Blog of the year 2012 Award. Check out my post for more info: http://dutchgoesitalian.com/2012/11/28/blog-of-the-year-2012/. Ciao, Letizia
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Thank you so much Letizia! I’m honored!!
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I’ve been there several times and enjoyed it each time. Well worth visiting. You should mention it is in Fort Myers, Florida.
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Good point…thanks for pointing that out! 🙂
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Of course we did… you do it so well we think we’re with you… loved this post… always been a Ford man…
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That’s what I try to do…make it seem like you’re with me!
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I love the banyan trees.
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They are majestic…so cool!!
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I had no idea about the existence of Edison & Ford Winter Estates and Museum, so thanks for taking me along. I think I like the park the most. It does indeed look gorgeous. Your pictures capture the spirit of the place very nicely. My favourite is the one by the sea with the big tree and the maze of roots.
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I wasn’t aware of them either. That photo is also my favorite!
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