Weather Update: Due to lightning in the area, the grounds and gardens are now closed. The museum and lab are open, and the grounds will re-open as soon as lightning clears. Please check back for updates...
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Incredible Things Happen When You Give to Edison Ford! When you support Edison and Ford Winter Estates by making a charitable gift, you help us fulfill our mission of providing unique educational experiences based on the artifacts, legacy and lives ..
Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Volunteering plays a critical role in the day-to-day operations at Edison Ford and supports many departments and staff. There are many benefits to becoming a v..
A sponsorship is a direct way to support our mission to educate the public and inspire an inventive spirit while building recognition for your organization among over 200,000 visitors per year and over 25,000 individual members. Sponsorships enable u..
Thank you for your interest in employment with the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. If you would like to apply for a position, click here or download the employment application and email the completed application, a cover letter and your resume to emp..
The mission of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is: To educate the public and inspire an inventive spirit by interpreting and preserving the innovations, legacies, artifacts, gardens, homes, laboratory, and other structures of Thomas Edison and ..
The mission of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is: To educate the public and inspire an inventive spirit by interpreting and preserving the innovations, legacies, artifacts, gardens, homes, laboratory, and other structures of Thomas Edison and ..
Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary to participate in these fun and fast-moving S.T.E.A.M. (science technology, engineering, art, and math) camps. For students currently in grades K-5, ..
Join us and explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Our Wild Wizards will challenge your mind and foster collaboration in this homeschool science and engineering series. Classes take place in an outdoor classroom en..
Children will play, learn, and gain social skills as they explore science, technology, engineering and more in the museum. For children ages 1 through 5. The new "Future Makers" program is free for Edison Ford members and included with admission f..
In addition to monthly classes for preschoolers and homeschoolers, Edison Ford offers a variety of special interest programs for children in grades K–8. Become a family member of Edison Ford and receive discounted registration...
Plan your next field trip to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates and give your students the chance to see how ideas can change the world and to understand what Edison meant when he said, "all progress, all success, springs from thinking.” Our sch..
Did you know that the Edison and Ford Winter Estates hosts four LEGO robotics teams? Here are the latest updates from the 2024 season: The Edison Ford Engineers (est. 2023) • K-3 grade • First LEGO League Explore: Demonstrate..
Whether your interest is in art, gardening, wellness or history, Edison Ford classes and workshops offer adults the opportunity to innovate, create and discover their passion. Virtual presentations are also offered...
You light up my life! The Edison and Ford Winter Estates date from 1885, when Thomas Edison first visited Southwest Florida and purchased the property to build a vacation home. ViSIT..
Being a member is the best way to experience Edison and Ford Winter Estates with free, unlimited general admission throughout the year. Supporting a national treasure will also give you great discounts, exclusive perks, and the satisfaction of kno..
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates will provide photography to journalists and projects that are appropriate and consistent our mission and objectives. Our policies and procedures require that we have a full understanding of all aspects of a project be..
Edison Ford has a large collection of contemporary and historical photos in our archives. To request a photo not included in this collection, fill out the Photo Inquiry Form and describe your need in the Additional Image section of the inquiry form...
All journalists, members of the media, or social media influencers should submit the inquiry form below to schedule a tour and interviews with the Marketing and Public Relations Department. Requests for commercial filming other than by journalist..
The Thomas Edison & Henry Ford Winter Estates, Inc. is a cultural, educational and historical not for profit corporation, that preserves, protects, and interprets the history of the Edison and Ford families and their winter homes. Requests for com..
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is a one-of-a-kind venue offering beautiful and unique spaces for outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions. With historic homes, romantic gardens, and spectacular river views, there is something to offer every coup..
Edison Ford Photography Sessions offer the opportunity for graduating seniors, families, engaged couples, or couples getting married elsewhere to have photographs taken throughout the beautiful Edison and Ford Winter Estates gardens. Advance regis..
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers guests an unconventional alternative to the typical banquet hall. Edison Ford provides a unique venue with the historic atmosphere that your guests will be talking about for years. Host your event in th..
Visitors to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will enjoy more than 20 acres of historical buildings and gardens including the 1928 Edison Botanical Research Laboratory. Open to the public since 1947, Edison Ford is a National Register Historic Si..
Stroll back in time through twenty acres of gardens and experience what the Edisons created during their many winters in Southwest Florida. Towering ficus trees planted by Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone stand tall in the former resear..
In 2014, the American Chemical Society designated the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory as a National Historic Chemical Landmark. The lab is the only site in the state of Florida to receive this title and is a true national treasure!..
The recently renovated Edison Ford Museum features 15,000 square feet of air conditioned exhibits, thousands of artifacts, and a wealth of opportunities for visitors to learn about the..
welcome! open daily 9am-5:30pm Visitors to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers will enjoy 20 acres of historical buildings, historic gardens, the Edison Botanical Research Lab and the Edison Ford Museum...
The historic winter homes, acres of botanic gardens, museum, laboratory, Garden Shoppe (Garden Center) and Museum Store are open from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily. The last ticket is sold at 4:30p.m. There is no charge for parking a..
Private Guided Tours Small groups wishing to have a private guided historian tour should complete our tour inquiry form or call 239-334-7419 for details. Private tours start at a flat rate of $450 for up to 15 people and are subject to availability...
Plan your next group trip to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates and discover the genius of two American innovators, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. There are many different options to explore, with nine historic buildings, acres of lush gardens, Edi..
The designated area near the corner of McGregor Boulevard and Larchmont Avenue (just Northeast of the Edison Ford Museum adjacent to the red pergola). - OR - The area of the main parking lot off of McGregor Boulevard closest to the Edison Ford M..
Contact Us 239.334.7419 • Open Daily 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (last admission sold at 4:30)...
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is committed to making its facilities and programs accessible to all visitors. The site is available to pedestrian visitors and is also ADA accessible. Wheelchairs (non-motorized) are available for loan (at no charg..
Private Guided Tours Small groups wishing to have a private guided historian tour should complete our group inquiry form or call 239-334-7419 for availability and details. Please allow at least 48 hours advance notice. Private tour rate is $345 f..
School Group Inquiry Form [contact-form-7 id="5045" title="School Group Inquiry Form"]..
Without the support of sponsors, it would not be possible to offer educational programs that are cutting edge, while remaining accessible to members of our community. This year, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates education staff committed to operatin..
By Karen M. Maxwell, Horticulture Programs Coordinator and Horticultural Specialist Most people who visit Edison and Ford Winter Estates are familiar with the story of our iconic Banyan tree, but perhaps not so many are aware that there is anothe..
By Karen M. Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist & Horticulture Programs Coordinator The Hong Kong Orchid tree is among many people’s favorite winter blooming trees here in Southwest Florida, and it has become the generic name attributed to several..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 25, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers school break camps for students in kindergarten through fifth Students learn about science, technology, ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist Did you know that Thomas Edison kept a “Best in My Index” list of plants during his rubber research? In January of 1929, he noted: Rudbeckia laciniata “Very stiff viscous rubber, good plant.” Ind..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Marjory Stoneman Douglas was an activist and pioneer woman who worked tirelessly to protect natural resources in Florida and improve communities around her. Douglas was born in ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist For most of her life, Mina Miller Edison may have enjoyed her July 6 birthdays on the shores of Lake Chautauqua in western New York, in one of the first of the gingerbread- style cottages that collectivel..
By Matt Andres, Curatorial Registrar “Thomas Edison invented cement?,” quipped a bemused visitor standing amongst his brethren of fellow tourists. “Wow, is there anything this guy didn’t invent?” After chuckling, I calmy resumed my collo..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist In June, nature opens her jewel box in Southwest Florida. Among the extraordinary collection of flowering shrubs, orchids and perennials, the flowering trees are the showstoppers. Space does not permit me..
By Timothy Snyder, Lead Historian Thomas and Mina Edison gave the City of Fort Myers an identity that shaped the socio-economic culture of future generations. The Edisons’ presence in Fort Myers inspired the city to improve and grow in a way tha..
Many people know Florida for its beautiful blue skies, warm sunshine and pristine beaches, but this area is so much more than that. This state contains a plethora of rich history and is home to many unique cultural venues that make trips to this area..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator On October 19, 1841, a major hurricane hit Fort Harvie and Fort Dulaney on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River. General David E. Twigs sent Major Ridgely to investigate a new site..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist Old-time television aficionados may remember the tagline “Goodnight Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are.” To this day, I really don’t know to whom Jimmy Durante was speaking, but I’m reminded of it ev..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator April 11 was Clara Ford’s birthday and this year marks the 156th anniversary of her birth. Clara, Henry Ford’s wife, was a pioneer woman and philanthropist who spent countless ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist A popular component of holiday décor, the sight of an amaryllis bulb in full bloom is always glorious to behold. The bulb, actually a food storage compartment, holds everything the plant needs to set th..
By Horticultural Specialist, Karen Maxwell Early in February, a world-renowned cycad specialist generously devoted an entire day toward the restoration of our cycad collection, which was in need of a professional make-over. Situated on the riversi..
Did you know that Edison Ford hosts not one, but two award-winning FIRST LEGO league robotics teams? First LEGO League is a robotics competition for students aged 9-14 years old. Teams compete on a robotics field attempting to accomplish as many ro..
By Matt Andres, Curatorial Registrar “I have this day abrogated your contract. Since you have been so underhanded, I shall demand refunding of all money paid you, and I do not desire you to exhibit the phonograph in Europe.” Thus signaled the ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist Upon introduction to the New World, oranges became an important symbol of Christmas greetings and the tradition of citrus for the holidays is still largely advertised here in South Florida. Back in Mina E..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Journalist, social activist, and college president, Dr. Hamilton Holt was a close acquaintance of the Edison Family who made lasting impacts on the education system that can still ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist My grandparents were gardeners of necessity. This occurs to me as I have spent nearly every day of the last few weeks putting the final touches on the wedding garden I have created for my daughter’s imm..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Charles and Emma Stribley were close acquaintances of the Edison family, and they made a lasting impact in many cities through their charitable work. Mr. Stribley was born near For..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist Did you know that cabbage palms (Sabal palmetto) grow in the South Pacific? Until about 10 years ago, neither did I. Then one lazy afternoon, I was watching the 1948 musical “On an Island With You,” f..
By Matt Andres, Collections Registrar As Thomas Edison raced from upriver toward his son Charles, shouts of, “We got a tarpon! We got a tarpon!” pierced the air. America’s favorite inventor was all smiles and began laughing wildly as he reve..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Helen Hendry (Johnson) was a prominent landscape architect who left a lasting legacy in Southwest Florida through her beautification projects a n d co m m e rc i a l developments, w..
The Bluebird of Happiness Most people know about Henry Ford’s work within the automobile industry. Even today, many ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist If I say, “Ixora,” what are you picturing? Today, we’ll explore how much more there is to this genus of a garden workhorse. Rarely found outside of South Florida in the continental United States ..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator On July 6, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will remember Thomas Edison’s second wife, Mina Miller, a remarkable pioneer woman who dedicated numerous hours to improving communities ..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist On a recent evening, just after sunset, as the crepuscular creatures were venturing out, I walked into the Moonlight Garden to turn off lights that had been left on for a special event. Strolling around, ..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator June 19 is the date that we celebrate Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, marking the end of slavery in the United States in 1865 (two and half years after the Emancipation..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Affectiona..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist The month of May heralds the approach of summer gardens in Southwest Florida, with unrelenting heat and humidity that can tucker the most zealous of our lot; however, there is just one more thing to plant..
For more than a decade, students from local schools have participated in the annual Art in the Gardens exhibit! This year, classes from nearly 30 schools have created art pieces using wooden star shape. The students may paint or decora..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist The Florida Everglades is home to more native orchids than anywhere else in the continental United States. Of the original 39 species, four are now extinct and the rest are endangered. Plants, however, d..
By Chet Wallace, Site Historian Punta Gorda is a city of about 20,000 inhabitants, and geographically located about 40 minutes north of Fort Myers. The..
Born April 11, 1866, Clara Bryant was the third of 10 children and grew up on a farm in rural Michigan. She attended school until the age of 17 and shared similar childh..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist Working in the gardens at Edison and Ford Winter Estates is truly a unique experience and fielding questions from guests about our extraordinary plant life is always a pleasure. Without a doubt, the most..
Congratulations to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates Robotics Team, "Assembly Required!" The FIRST LEGO league division competed against 31 other teams in the Regional Championship for the Southwest Florida region. "Assembly Required" registered the..
Thank you to all the artists and floral designers from the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council for participating in Art in Bloom on March 6! We received 365 votes during the show. The People's choice winners are as follows: 1st Place: Anita Si..
By Marketing Coordinator, Alexandria Edwards March is Women’s History Month in the United States, which encourages the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history. An extraordinary example is Dr. Ella Mae Pi..
The team recently participated in this season’s qualifying tournament and received the Innovative Project Award and a bid to the Regional Championship, which will be held on March 5. The current team has won an award in every category in the past t..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist You know the plant … those mostly reddish foliage plants with skinny legs that are so often used in landscapes as a color break from predominantly green palettes. Botanically, Cordyline fruticosa or its..
By Alexandria Edwards, Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Berne Davis (Barfield) was an influential philanthropist with deep roots in the City of Fort Myers who developed a very close friendship with Mina Edison throughout her time in Sout..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist In the array of tropical plants we grow, a most fascinating group is the family Clerodendrum and though it still hasn’t found its way into many southern gardens, Clerodendrum thomsoniae* has been at the..
Robert C. Halgrim was an influential figure who worked very closely with Thomas Edison and made lasting impacts on important organizations throughout Fort Myers. He was born on September 9, 1905, in Humboldt, Iowa, and moved to the City of Palms – ..
By Matt Andres, Curatorial Registrar Season’s Greetings everyone! The 2021 Christmas season is upon us, which means an annual tradition known as Holiday Nights has officially begun at the Estates. Featuring thousands of lights, Victorian style d..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist In two years’ time, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will have the single largest collection of bromeliads anywhere in South Florida … that is if Tom Cowell, orchid and bromeliad specialist at the Esta..
By Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator, Alexandria Edwards Tootie McGregor Terry was an influential woman who left a major mark on Lee County, making Fort Myers a top tourist destination in Florida and the United States. She was born in 184..
By Curatorial Registrar, Matt Andres On November 11, America will celebrate Veterans Day. It's a day we salute our military veterans whose service to our country has helped protect and preserve our many cherished freedoms and constitutional rights..
By Karen Maxwell, Horticultural Specialist The McGregor Boulevard landscape that borders the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is well known for its historic rows of royal palms. In the late 1920s, that landscape was far more colorful as it included..
Each summer, campers aged 6 to 12 explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates while our Wild Wizards teach topics in STEAM (science technology, engineering, art, and math), history and the natural world. And each summer,..
The 13th annual Art in the Gardens exhibit is now open! Each year, students from local schools use creative, often recycled materials, do decorate an outdoor area of our site. This year, the exhibit is located on and around the museum porch. This ..
On the morning of September 10, 2017, Hurricane Irma, a Category 4 hurricane with 130 mph winds struck the state of Florida. The hurricanes eyewall passed directly over Cudjoe Key before making landfall in Marco Island that afternoon as a Category 3 ..
When you think about your wedding day, what do you envision? Perhaps your dream wedding includes a spectacular view of a beautiful garden or waterfront? Or maybe you have your heart set on a certain color scheme? What about a ceremony at a historic h..
If you're considering a micro wedding, here are a few things to think about. You might have some unhappy friends or family members when they find out you’re going small and they will be excluded from the guest list. Stay confident and explain your ..
There is a lot of value in a handwritten thank you note. When someone does something nice for you or gives you a gift, traditionally a note of thanks should be sent to the giver to express gratitude. You may be thinking, “this is 2020 and time..
As the end of summer approaches, we've been reflecting on how fortunate we are to have the support of so many incredible local businesses and organizations. A returning sponsor of summer camp at Edison Ford, as well as a business partner we've wor..
We are excited to recognize TriCircle pavers as a sponsor for our inventor's summer camp! Summer camp sponsors have made it possible for us to invest in cutting edge technologies, improve camp materials, and provide sponsorship for students who might..
We are fortunate to have an incredible group of local businesses, organizations, and philanthropists supporting the 2020 summer camp season at Edison Ford! Through their efforts, we are able to provide scholarships for students in need, improve camp ..
Bill and Kayleigh recently shared their love story with us. Where did you and your fiancé meet? We met at a junior hockey game at the Fort Myers Skatium. We were introduced by a mutual friend who, rightly so, thought we would hit it off! ..
On July 1, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will open the 15,000-square-foot air-conditioned Museum and historic Botanic Research Laboratory. The botanical gardens and riverside of the property previously opened. The site is o..
Each week marks a different session of summer camp at Edison Ford. "Creative Coders" explores multiple platforms as campers take on daily computer challenges. Entech is a Fort Myers-based custom IT services provider, and a longtime partner of Edis..
Ryan and Gabriella recently shared their story with us. Where did you and your fiancé meet? We met on the first day of orientation for law school at the University of Alabama. But the first time that we saw each other was the previous evenin..
Believe it or not, summer camp season has arrived at Edison Ford. This year, we are fortunate to be working with many local organizations who have sponsored sessions of camp. Their generous support makes it possible to invest in new and cutting e..
Have you ever wondered what's in bloom right now across our 20-acre site? Each month, we produce a document showcasing exactly that. Click below to learn more: This monthly guide makes an excellent companion for visitors exploring our newl..
Meaghan Schroeder and Brandon Muscato were married on March 23, 2019. They recently shared some of their love story with us. Where did you and your fiancé meet? We met in Jacksonville, Florida, while opening a new BJ's Brewhouse restaurant...
Where did you meet? Kristie and Stephen lived in the same neighborhood for many years; although, they never knew it. (They slyly admit that the Internet helped them figure it out!) With overlapping social and professional circles, it was just a ma..
Austin and Lauren recently married at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. They shared a little about their romance with us. Where did you and your fiancé meet? We met on the dating website, Bumble. Who popped the question? Where? Austin propos..
In this time of uncertainty, we are thinking of our members, volunteers, sponsors, staff, visitors and vendor partners. From all of us at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, we would like to extend our best wishes for good health to you and your..
Postponing your wedding isn't ideal, but it's sometimes necessary. Selecting a wedding date is one of the very first steps in the planning process, but that doesn’t mean it’s entirely set in stone. In fact, sometimes postponing the date is nec..
About the Couple & the Location Ryan and Shelah live in northern New York, and have decided to have their 2020 wedding here in Southwest Florida. With Ryan in the military and Shelah a youth educator, time is precious for these lovebirds – but the..
Please note: This information has been updated. Read the most recent information here. Your well-being is our top priority. We are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., seven days a week, and are following guidance from the U.S Centers for Disease Control (CD..
We are excited to offer a slate of spring and summer camp offerings that bring back returning favorites-- like film making and robotics-- as well as introducing all-new camps, like "designed by girls!" From cartography to paleontology, conservation t..
If you’ve ever been to a wedding reception, you’ve probably noticed the table centerpieces. These decorative arrangements help set the ambiance and tone for even the smallest reception. There are many different kinds of centerpieces and some can ..
Every year, a series of antique car shows brings hundreds of incredible vintage vehicles and thousands of automobile enthusiasts to Edison Ford! This year is no different-- if you are planning a trip, review the dates of upcoming car shows here: ..
Where did you and your fiancé meet? We actually went to the same high school together but didn’t know each other. We spent the next few years metaphorically only a step away from each other – living about five minutes away from one another at o..
We're kicking off the new year with a variety of new types of adult education programming! From history to horticulture, art to wellness, there's something for everyone to enjoy. View our slate of adult education programming, or check the events c..
This year, nearly 60 local schools participated in the annual Children's Tree Trail, a community art exhibit that runs during Holiday Nights! Each school created largely recycled art displays building on the central theme of "River Reflections." A..
Launching Holiday Nights each year is a process that involves dozens of staff and hundreds of community volunteers! These groups work with the Curatorial Department to make each location in the Edison and Ford homes unique. We would like to say a big..
The first car show of the season is quickly approaching, and staff are preparing for a busy season for antique vehicle lovers! The largest of all Edison Ford car shows, this one will feature dozens of antique cars from local car clubs and classic ca..
Orange and black are the traditional colors associated with Halloween. While black flowers are hard to come by, the gardens at Edison Ford have a few orange flowers in bloom to mark the season. If you walk the grounds, you'll come across orange in t..
Curatorial staff are hard at work installing the new exhibit, Edison, Tesla, Westinghouse, and the Race to Electrify America, in the Edison Caretaker's House. This electrifying new exhibit sheds light on the War of the Currents, which decided the el..
Join us for two days of free classes on orchid care and shop several vendor booths selling orchids and supplies. And come hungry, because we'll have Tag's Whiskey Bent BBQ and Belgian Yummies on hand for you to enjoy between seminars. The inaugura..
Getting engaged is one of the happiest days in a couple’s relationship – besides their wedding day. Here are some helpful tips to make it a memorable day. Hire a Photographer Hiring a photographer is a MUST! Photographers will go out of thei..
For a little more than a year, we've been selling live edge slabs of wood from trees from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Now, we are down to just two slabs of the very rare shaving brush tree and six slabs of mango. Both trees were removed from ..
When planning a wedding, there are many details that go into it. One of the most important details to think of is how to end the night. What is your grand wedding sendoff? A wedding sendoff is becoming more and more popular and it gives you the chanc..
Did you know that there is a bromeliad for nearly every spot in your Southwest Florida yard? They will grow in sun, shade, and even in trees! They come in assorted colors and sizes, and many feature vibrant blooms. Did you know that there are many..
The winter estate of the Ford family, known as "The Mangoes," featured a grove of mangoes, as well as an allée of the stately tree leading right to the home's front door. The Edison estate featured innumerable orchids in the mango trees on a nearby ..
From the Abraham Darby rose to the Zululand Cycad, our plant database is a myriad of plant names and numbers. Twice a year our Plant Curator inventories the plants on our 20 acre site, recording and mapping new plantings and noting plants that were r..
It’s the week leading up to your wedding and you just want the day to be perfect. All of the planning is finally going to pay off. You shouldn’t have to worry about anything except being with your friends and family who have traveled near and far..
Have you ever spotted a sawfish in the Edison cove? Staff report each sighting to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), who carefully monitor and study these rare and spectacular animals. After a recent series of sightings, FWC staff cam..
With a forecast calling for thunderstorms, 37 intrepid butterfly counters headed out on June 10, 2019 to four locations in Lee County to volunteer for Edison Ford's third North American Butterfly Association's July 4th Butterfly Count. The July 4th C..
June is one of the best months for enjoying flowering trees in Southwest Florida. The royal poincianas and jacarandas are in bloom and several trees with yellow flowers are also showing off. In the last post, we talked about the golden shower tree an..
If you've driven through a Fort Myers neighborhood recently, you've probably spotted trees with bright yellow flowers. This time of year, it could be the golden shower tree, Cassia fistula, or the yellow flame tree, Peltophorum dubium that you've see..
The summer of 2019 is here and many of you may be just months away from matrimony. Couples are usually amazed by how quickly time flies by and excited to start the next chapter of life with love. You’ve probably started developing your registry..
Have you noticed the bright orange-red flowers adorning many trees in Southwest Florida lately? That's probably the royal poinciana, Delonix regia, that you're seeing. Did you know that these trees might have lined our beloved McGregor Boulevard ins..
June is the month when many of the flowering trees start to show their colors- they thrive with longer daylight hours, afternoon downpours and warmer temperatures. This class will include a walk around the property as we identify different species an..
From now until October 1, 2019, a special garden display created by Edison Ford staff will be on view at the United States Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C.! The display tells the story of how and why Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Fir..
Congratulations to Olivia Sutton and Osman Ulug, who were married at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates on April 13, 2019! Where did you & your fiancé meet? We met during Freshman Year at Washington University, both studying biomed engineer..
Want a tree that is sure to make the neighbors stop and stare? Then consider the jackfruit, a tree that produces one of the oddest and largest fruits of any plant. We first wrote about this tree in 2011. But since that time, jackfruit has become more..
We are less than ten days away from traveling to our nation's capitol to set up replicas of the Edison Botanic Research Corporation's (EBRC) lab and rubber research gardens! Edison Ford is honored to be part of the Gardens Across America exhibit at t..
Next time you're walking through our gardens, take a look at our new educational signs on plant diseases and pests and learn how you can help control their spread. In June 2018, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates joined the Sentinel Plant Network (..
April 11 marks the birthday of Clara Ford, nicknamed "The Believer." As the wife of Henry Ford and mother of Edsel Ford, she certainly lived up to that title, offering support at critical junctures and in trying times. But Clara's individual passions..
Join one of our butterfly spotting teams for Edison Ford's third annual butterfly count as part of the North American Butterfly Associations's (NABA) 4th of July Count. Beginning at 10 am on June 10, 2019, our teams will look for and record all butte..
Right on schedule, the first of many black swallowtail butterflies, Papilio polyxenes, emerged from their chrysalises on March 20, 2019 near the Caretaker's House. We removed the "cages" from the fennel so that the adults could fly off when their win..
You may know that both Mina Edison and Clara Ford grew rose..
On January 5, 1921,Dr. Marshall Terry, along with his wife Tootie McGregor-Terry, donated several acres of privately owned land that had in its earliest days been a cow pasture and later the site of the Lee County Fair. ..
Public gardens play an important role in plant conservation, and the gardens at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates are no exception. As habitat loss, climate change, illegal harvesting and other issues continue to threaten the world’s floral biodiv..
As of March 11, 2019, we can see at least three black swallowtail, Papilio polyxenes, pupas (or chrysalises) in our ‘butterfly cages’ in the herb garden next to the Edison Caretaker’s House. They are on schedule to emerge as butterflies sta..
Phonograph historian and author, Tim Fabrizio, made a special visit to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates during Thomas Edison’s birthday celebration, February 11th. Mr. Fabrizio has been researching and writing about ..
Visitors to Edison Ford during the month of March may notice unusual ‘cages’ in our herb garden alongside the Edison Caretaker’s House! During the last week of February, a large number of caterpillars were spotted on certain plant..
You may have heard about our exciting new project to recreate the historic Henry Ford Citrus Grove, but many visitors are unaware of the historic connections both Henry Ford and Thomas Edison had with citrus and fruit trees. Did you know: When..
When people consider moving to Florida, they often dream of growing a juicy orange tree in their backyard. But there's more to backyard citrus than just O.J.! Have you heard of calamondin, the bite-size citrus snack you can pop in your mouth, skin an..
If you've passed by the Estates in the past few months, you may have wondered about the small trees covered in white cloth on the Ford property. Those are young citrus trees, part of new living exhibit set to open soon on the Ford property! The exhib..
Do you know how to grow one of the world's most popular flowers, the rose? Did you think it was impossible to grow them in the heat and humidity of Southwest Florida? If your answer to either question is "no", join our Horticulture team on April 13th..
On Monday, February 11th ,the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will celebrate an American icon's 172nd birthday. A ceremony honoring Thomas Edison, including his achievements and contributions to Fort Myers and beyond, will take place at 10:00AM compl..
Don't miss Southwest Florida's biggest plant sale: the Edison Garden Festival on February 9 and 10, 2019 at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Hundreds of plants will be available from more than 20 plant vendors and as always, there will be some one..
Where did you and your fiancé meet? Scott and I met in Boston. We were sitting across from each other at a local restaurant in the city and made eye contact several times but never talked to each other that night. Three nights later we ran in to ea..
During a cold day in January of 1896, inspiration struck Thomas Edison. The prolific inventor had recently read reports about Wilhelm Rontgen’s incredible discovery of X-rays just weeks before. Rontgen, a German me..
Spend the afternoon in our historic gardens learning the basics of botanical drawing from one of Southwest Florida’s best artists, Megan Kissinger. Megan will discuss the geometry and structure of flowers and leaves, demonstrate her techniques, and..
A non-weekend wedding? Is that really a thing? Have you ever considered getting married on any other day, except the weekend? How about Monday, or Tuesday or Thursday? Is it “normal” to get married on any other day of the week? YES! It’s a ..
During this year's Holiday Nights event, Edison Ford staff partnered with volunteers from the Cape Coral organization, Holiday 4 Heroes, to collect needed items and mail holiday postcards to soldiers stationed overseas. Visitors generously don..
On December 7, 1877, Thomas Edison entered the New York offices of the Scientific American, a popular scientific magazine that happened to be one of the emerging inventor’s favorite periodicals. Unlike earlier occasions, this visit was not about ..
While you're out (or online) doing your holiday shopping, visit our Garden Shoppe for some unique and eco-friendly gifts for your friends and families. Our Garden Shoppe is open until 9 pm during Holiday Nights! If you're looking for something sm..
Growing up, did you learn that Thomas Edison invented the light bulb? As you probably know now, the truth is that he continued the long process of innovation that many inventors before him began, refining and improving the light bulb and systems of e..
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We may not get blizzards in Southwest Florida, but you can tell your northern friends you have "snow" in your yard after you've planted some Asian snow, Wrightia antidysenterica. Asian snow blooms with small white flowers all year long. This well-..
A few weeks ago we shared a post on how to be the best, Best Man. Since we’ve been talking about bachelorette parties and bridesmaids over the last few weeks, it was the perfect time to reflect on what makes a magnificent maid of honor too. Being a..
If you've been to an Edison Garden Festival, you know to expect plant sellers like Rege Malone, Tropiflora, and Peacock Cottage, all who have been coming to the event since it first started more than 10 years ago. Through the years, we've added food ..
Try one of our free, self-guided garden tours the next time you're at Edison Ford. There are three available tours: one directing you to more than 60 different species of palms, one that takes you to living examples of several items you probably have..
Most people know that Thomas Edison was one of the world’s most prolific inventors. His incandescent light bulb has become the universal symbol for a bright idea, and his early work in sound recording and motion pictures helped create the foundatio..
Every year around this time the floss silk trees in the Ft. Myers and Naples area start blooming, showing off a brilliant display of color from blush to bubblegum to hot pink. And after the trees lose their fall color, they will produce "snow", which..
On October 25, the Florida Humanities Council Speaker Series kicked off with a fascinating le..
Southwest Florida, an area ranging from Bonita Springs to Marco Island, is well known for its’ beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical flora, but it recently served as the background for a very educational gathering. This year’s ..
Walking through Southwest Florida’s neighborhoods, you probably come across a lot of flowering and fruiting trees. Unlike the trees in the Edison Ford gardens, most of your neighbors’ trees aren’t labeled, so how do you identify them? The U..
Was Henry Ford a quilter? Well, no, not quite, but he and his wife Clara did assemble a vast and diverse collection of items to celebrate “the genius of the American people.” And that sentiment is especially exemplified in the quilt. Throughout t..
"Greed, betrayal, and the world's most beautiful orchid," reads the tagline of author Craig Pittman's book, The Scent of Scandal. As part of the Florida Humanities Council Speaker Series, the award-winning author and journalist will present a lectu..
The Edison Garden Festival returns November 17 and 18, 2018, and will include more of everything: more vendors, more food and more music! While the main attraction is always the plants from dozens of growers from throughout Florida, there are also gr..
Where did you and Kaleb meet? We first met at church, but then we happened to be working out next to each other at the gym and that’s when we really started talking. Between church and the gym, we really got to know each other. How did he pop t..
Did you know that every year, thousands of Christmas lights and hundreds of historic holiday decorations fill the grounds of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates? Dozens of staff and hundreds of volunteers spend countless hours preparing the site for..
Summer is a great time of year to snip flowers from the garden and bring inside to enjoy all day long! They can add both a lovely fragrance and cheerful colors to your home, and if you’re feeling patriotic, a vase full of red, white and blue blooms..
In 1914 popular writer and naturalist John Burroughs arrived with his friend Henry Ford to visit Thomas Edison for the first time at his estate..
Perhaps you’ve seen some butterflies in your garden and wondered how you could attract more of them. Debbie Hughes, senior horticulturist at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, will talk about butterflies that can be found here in Southwest Florida a..
Although Thomas Edison's research of rubber plants ended long ago, the plants on his estate still assist others around the world with their botanical research. Our plants are inventoried regularly by the Plant Curator and then included in the Bota..
Have you noticed the bright orange-red flowers adorning many trees in Southwest Florida lately? That's probably the royal poinciana, Delonix regia, that you're seeing. Did you know that these trees might have lined our beloved McGregor Boulevard ins..
Come meet some of the newest members of our garden: Princess Maria Tia, Maui Beauty, and Nebel's Rainbow are three of 20 unique cultivars of plumeria, also known as frangipani, to join our landscape. They were planted at ..
Need to entertain the kids for a bit during the holidays? Send them outside on a treasure hunt to make this simple but cute ..
One of the most beautiful flowering shrubs you can plant in Southwe..
What plant is related to po..
Many visitors of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates have noticed our trees with what appear to be salmon-colored flowers. In fact, these are the seed pods that followed yellow flowers of the golden rain tree, Koelreuteria paniculata, which started ..
Who says Florida doesn't enjoy fall colors? Our colors are just a bit different than those in the no..
Following up on our recent Garden Talk on vines, we have some new additions for sale in our Garden Shoppe.
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If you are looking for an unusual gift for yourself or others, then the old fashioned heritage craft known as a boondoggle will fit the bill. Boondoggle are woven from sabal palm and legend has it that they ward off lightning strikes and bri..
Have you ever wanted a Royal Poinciana Tree, but in a much smaller size? Consider the Dwarf Poinciana for your next garden addition. The Dwarf Poinciana (Caesalpinina pulcherrima) is an evergreen shrub that can be trained and pruned into a sm..
Something is always blooming at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Take a virtual walk through our gardens to see some of the amazing plants putting on a show in mid-September. Now is your chance to see the Devil Tree, in the first parking lot by th..
Finding flowering plants for shady yards in Florida can be tricky. One of our Garden Shoppe’s newest arrivals, the pagoda plant, Clerodendrum paniculatum, will light up your Florida garden with brilliant red-orange flowers against dark green, roun..
If it’s summer in southwest Florida, you’ll hear a lot of residents ask, “When will this heat end?”, “When will it stop raining?” and “What do I do with all these mangoes?” While many of us year-round Floridians are enduring the he..
By now everyone knows that Henry and Clara Ford owned a Florida estate named “The Mangoes,” for the allée of mango trees that lined their property and the Edison Estate along McGregor Boulevard. The Edison family added innumerable orchids in ..
A Museum celebrating Thomas Edison’s life, work and interests was a dream of Mina Edison even before she donated the Edison Estate to the City of Fort Myers on February 19, 1947. In fact, she had created the museum plan to include inventions, e..
With the help of the Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau (VCB) and Visit Florida, more Chinese travelers (individuals and groups) are visiting Edison Ford. The VCB is also facilitating visits from traveling journalists.
For the past year, Edison Ford staff has been building a replica of the original Ford Quadricycle. The Quadricycle’s current phase has primarily consisted of heavy machining. Edison Ford Automotive Curator, James Moss has been purch..
A large collection of historic newspaper scans was recently donated to Edison Ford. Mrs. Koelber allowed the Edison Ford staff to scan a collection of historic newspaper articles (including Fort Myers News-Press and others) relating to Thomas Ediso..
Thanks to the creative oversight of Automotive Curator Jim Moss, Registrar Matt Andres and a very talented group of volunteers, the pieces and parts of the replica Henry Ford 1904 Quadricycle are being produced and will be ready for a..
Under the direction of Edison Ford Automotive Curator, James Moss, a team of staff and highly skilled volunteers are creating a working model of Henry Ford’s first automobile - the quadricycle. In fact, the project has moved along so well, that..
Ironically, when completed in 1931, the Edison Bridge had no electric lights. City officials were further embarrassed in 1935, when a nationwide Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” cartoon lampooned the bridge. With the help of Florida Power & L..
On Thomas Edison’s final birthday, February 11, 1931, a ceremony was held to celebrate the opening of a newly constructed bridge named in his honor. Spanning the Caloosahatchee River, the structure acknowledged the famed inventor’s place in F..
For many years, Fort Myers was somewhat isolated from its neighbors. In the 19th century, travel by boat was quite common. The train did not connect to the city until 1904, and it was not until 1924 that a wooden bridge first crossed the Caloosahat..
As our gardens expand, so does the variety of visitors we see here. Our Blue Pea Vine has caught the attention of the Long-tailed Skipper (Urbanus proteus) as evidenced by the eggs and larva we have found on the leaves. Shown below, the newly-ha..
Edison Ford received an award for work to promote The Henry Ford Legacy and preserve the Fort Myers Ford Estate. Chief Curator Mike Cosden, Assistant Curator Brent Newman, and Automotive Curator James Moss traveled to Henry and Clara Ford’s Hist..
This is a female Eastern Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes astarius), newly emerged from the chrysalis. She was one of a large number of caterpillars feeding on our dill and parsley in the Edison Ford gardens back in late June and early Jul..
The beautiful estates of Edison and Ford, the Museum’s new West Porch and the gardens have become very popular spots for gatherings of families, groups and businesses. It is a great way to add an interesting twist, some history and a lot of beaut..
Through the work of staff at Edison Ford, Henry Ford will be inducted into the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame which is located at the University of South Florida. This is an honor for the inventor himself, and for Henry and Clara’s Winter Estate wh..
Henry Ford’s birthday is July 30, 1863 so he will be 152 years old this year. At Edison Ford we celebrate the day with activities to inclu..
When planning a wedding, arches and wedding decor are often a great way to add personal and beautiful touches to your ceremony site. Luckily, at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, you don't need to add much due to our beautiful gardens. However, a..
It is spring here in Southwest Florida and our gardens are abuzz. Our garden shoppe is growing and many items in our garden shoppe and adjacent butterfly garden attract quite a crowd. Here are a couple of youngsters we found in the garden today. Can..
We decorated our Christmas Tree this year for Holiday Nights with 2 types of Neoreglias called 'Tres Colores' and 'Roots and Roots'. It was great fun to see them used in a way we don't usually use them. We have been planting them in our garde..
After nearly 100 years, the fish collection of the Edison family is being conserved by taxidermists. The first three tarpon in the series are on display in the museum with replicas in fiberglass to be located on the porches as in the Edison era..
We recently accepted a donation of 500 plus orchids from a grower in Homestead, Florida called Pine Ridge Orchids to add to our existing growing collection of orchids in the trees throughout the estates. This brings our total to slightly more tha..
Emilie and Ryan decided to celebrate their wedding day with us at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. It was a beautiful, classic spring wedding with bright colors and a vintage twist. They chose to get married in front of the Mysore Fig surrounde..
Brides are looking to dazzle their guests with more than just taste, they want their cakes to reflect their wedding theme or to represent a piece of themselves. Some brides even skip the cake altogether and choose to have cupcakes or petit fours inst..
Edison and Ford Winter Estates has been chosen by many couples as their wedding ceremony location. In addition to wedding ceremonies, Edison and Ford Winter Estates can also provide an outdoor cocktail hour in our tropical Coconut Grove with the ..
Flowers are essential to any wedding. Who doesn’t love seeing the bride’s bouquet when she’s walking down the aisle? While bouquets are a fun way to get creative, they can also be very expensive. The best way to save money on bouquets is to pic..
Erica and John were a fun-loving couple that couldn't wait to get married and celebrate their special day with family and friends at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Erica and John got married in front of the Caloosahatchee River. They couldn't ..
Kelly and Eric recently got married in March at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, choosing to have their destination wedding here in beautiful Fort Myers, Florida. The couple had an elegant southern style wedding in our Royal Palm Allee, with eve..
Venue: Edison and Ford Winter Estates / 239-334-7419 / https://www.edisonfordwinterestates.org/ Joelle and Dylan recently had their engagement photo-shoot here at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The photo-shoot was youthful and vibrant..
The work of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone in rubber research has been acknowledged by the American Chemical Society (ACS) for its importance in chemical research. In May, the ACS recognized the Edison Botanical Research Labor..
Back in March, Danielle and Thomas got married at Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, FL. Inspired by the botanical gardens Edison Ford has to offer, they decided to have a romantic garden wedding. Creating their own unique ceremony, Dani..
Cheryl and Eric got married at Edison and Ford Winter Estates during the month February. Deciding to get married the day after Valentine's day, Cheryl and Eric celebrated their love all weekend long. These two had such a fun-filled chemistry with o..
In the past, when it comes to picking out bridesmaid dresses, bridesmaid dresses have always been the same to match perfectly from one bridesmaid to another. Now, we see that the dresses can all be different as long as they are coordinated to the col..
Pam and Tom got married at Edison and Ford Winter Estates back in December. In honor of celebrating their new marriage, they donated and planted a Ylang-Ylang Tree at Edison Ford. After the ceremony, wedding guests gathered around to watch Pam and ..
Kelsey and Steven got married in December at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates right before Christmas. A wedding ceremony full of red roses, Christmas lights and a beautiful lace wedding dress, made for the perfect wedding in December. There's no ..
By Debbie Hughes, Horticulturist January is a great time to plant tomatoes in raised beds or large pots in Florida. Tomatoes have difficulty growing in the poor sandy soil laden with nematodes (microscopic worms that eat the roots of plants), it ..
Two Tampa, FL locals, Elizabeth and Terence came to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to get married last November. With extravagant floral arrangements and flower pedals everywhere, this ceremony was filled with beauty and luxury. Check out Teren..
Planning on getting married and love to travel? Southwest Florida is the perfect getaway for a destination wedding. In May, Stacy and Steven decided to have their wedding at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, FL. This destination w..
This past April, Meghan, a local paramedic and Ron, a local sheriff's deputy from Labelle, FL got married at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. You might remember seeing a wedding video of these two local heroes. Check out some pictures from..
Who says you can't find love later in life? In May, Linda and Glenn showed us what true love really looks like during their wedding ceremony at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, FL. Their wedding was filled with beautiful, bright c..
With the completion of the restoration of the Edison Research Laboratory building, staff and consultants are continuing research and development to understand and replicate the exciting work that Edison was conducting for this project almost a hundr..
Here's a wedding ceremony idea that is sure to wet your guests' eyes: Sealing the wine box with love letters or vows.
Before the wedding, the bride and groom should take time to write a letter to themselves explai.."Two hearts and two souls grow together to become one." Nicole and Alex had their engagement photoshoot in May at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, FL and had their tree planting celebration captured during their photoshoot. Donatin..
Carrie and Brad's May botanical garden wedding at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, FL was one to remember for its simplicity and elegance. With spring flowers in full bloom, a botanical wedding uses the natural gardens at Edison F..
Weston Heintz will begin Veterinary School at the University of Florida this fall, but for the summer of 2013, he was an integral part of the teaching team for Edison Ford Summer Inventor’s Camp, working with our teachers and about 60 students a we..
Looking for a waterfront wedding venue in Florida but not interested in a beach wedding? Take a page from the Book of Meghan & Ron. These Florida natives had their outdoor wedding on the Caloosahatchee River at the Edison & Ford Winter Es..
Clara Bryant Ford, the wife of Henry Ford for 59 years, had a passion and love for roses. Fair Lane, the 1,300 acre Michi..
Katie & Matt's October wedding at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida is overflowing with beautiful vintage details. We are absolutely in love with their vintage style wedding video from Fidelis Films & these knock-o..
Henry Ford is most noted as the father of the automobile. He was one of the greatest innovators and inventors of our time holding 161 US patents. He was also a filmmaker, who was the largest producer and distributor of films; an early pioneer in sust..
This video slideshow of Nicole & Philip's wedding at the Mysore Fig Tree at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is so full of joy! The talented Impressions Photography never ceases to amaze us with the way they capture the beauty of our proper..
Did you know Henry Ford was the founder of what is know today as Kingsford Charcoal Henry Ford experimented with soy beans not only as a food source but created a suit and a car out of soy beans The Fordson Tractor was created by Henry Ford an..
Few things are as classic as a white wedding. With moderate touches of plum in the bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen ties, Trish & Rory's January Florida wedding at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, was the perfect balance of e..
At the annual Florida Federation of Garden Clubs Conference Thomas Edison was honored with their top award recognizing his leadership in the development of horticulture and agriculture in Florida. Edison created the headquarters for the Edison Bo..
Laura and Tyler got hitched last April in the Coconut Grove at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, overlooking the Caloosahatchee River and held their reception in Laura's parents' backyard. We just love their DIY style! Edison Ford Pre..
Cortney & Ron planned their Fort Myers, Florida destination wedding from Ohio. In February, who wouldn't want to leave the midwest and soak up some sun for a Florida wedding? Enjoy these beautiful images of their wedding at the Mysore Fig Tre..
The Lee County Viva Florida 500 Time Capsule will be on display in the Edison Caretaker’s House throughout the month of May along with Discovering Southwest Florida with Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, an exhibit featuring historic photographs and ar..
Clara Bryant Ford, the wife of Henry Ford for 59 years, loved roses. Fair Lane, the Ford’s Michigan estate, had more than 350 varieties of roses and 10,000 rose plants in their five acre garden. In honor of Clara’s birthday and Henry’s 150th..
We know that you are looking for unique wedding ceremony ideas to make your wedding ceremony memorable. The Tea Ceremony, common in Chinese weddings, has become popular in the U.S.
During the wedding ceremony, te..When a flight attendant marries an Air Force man, an aviation themed wedding is inevitable. Lindsay and Ray hired Courtney Shaw of Fabulously Chic Events to plan their February destination wedding at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Mye..
Here's another fabulous wedding shot by Fort Myers wedding photographer, Photography by Jerri Lynn! Jenyfer and Dan chose purple to color their April wedding at the Edison Ford. The happy couple pledged their commitment to one another in the Roya..
by Dani Taverna, Duality Artistry With the allure of warm weather and beautiful, sandy beaches, brides all over the world dream of a Florida destination wedding. It’s no secret that Florida can be hot and humid all year long; so, I’ll share w..
Two very stylish hipsters, Carmen & Alex, had the good taste to choose the Edison and Ford Winter Estates for their intimate summer wedding. Braving the warm August weather, Alex sported a khaki linen suit and Carmen flaunted a gorg..
For second marriages or when there are children from a previous relationship, joining the entire family during the wedding ceremony is important. Here are some wedding ceremony ideas that involve children. The couple may take vows regarding the ch..
If you are looking for wedding ceremony ideas to make your wedding ceremony special, consider including a wine ceremony. In a wine ceremony the couple gives each other a drink of wine from the same glass after the rings are exchanged. It serves as..
Fort Myers natives, Casey & Tate, knew they wanted to get married in their hometown. The Edison Ford was the perfect fit for the estate wedding they dreamed of. Casey's older sister was married at the Fort Myers wedding venue years prior in t..
Many of the flowers we are drawn to because of their bright cheery flowers and ground cover growth are actually in the Composite family (asters, daisies and chrysanthemums). Several of these great flowers grow well in Florida. Zinnias and Sunf..
When the wedding planner from the Naples Zoo says she wants to get married in your venue, you know you must have one of the best wedding venues in Southwest Florida. We could not have been more flattered to have Courtney and Nick choose the Edison ..
How to Address Your Wedding Invitations
by DM Paper Designs
You have designed your beautiful invitation and you are now ready to collect everyone’s addresses and start forming your guest list. Did ..On Thomas Edison’s 166th birthday (February 11, 2013) the Edison & Ford Winter Estates will open a special exhibit in the historic Edison Caretaker’s House, “Discovering Southwest Florida with Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.” The exhi..
FIRST Lego League is an international competition that includes robotic challenges, a presentation project, a technical challenge and a core value competition for students. Four homeschool students, who called themselves the Edis..
In 1878, Thomas Edison began the difficult process of perfecting the electric light bulb. Just two years later, during the Christmas season of 1880, Edison displayed a strand of electric lights outside his lab in Menlo Park, New Jersey. Passersby on ..
While the Edison family spent many winters in Fort Myers, only one Christmas was spent here, as the Edisons would typically venture to Florida after the holiday season was complete. However, in 1929, the Edisons chose to celebrate Christmas at their..
Henry Ford enjoyed celebrating the Christmas season in many ways. He was known to give extravagant gifts to those close to him—he gave a brand new Ford automobile to Theodore Edison in 1915! But Ford was quite generous in other ways, as well. In 1..
This Christmas consider trying some organically inspired decorating options for the garden lover in you. They can offer some cost saving choices and bring a natural feel to your holiday tree. Tillandsias, also known as air plants, are a type of br..
The new hands-on Smart Cart in the Edison Ford Museum provides all ages with a chance to learn more about the science and history of artifacts from the Museum’s large education collection, and it is already a hit with visitors, curators an..
Mr. Russell Mabry, the original owner and caretaker of this 1917 Ford Model TT Truck, visited the Edison Ford Estates on August 9th. He was joined by his grandson Scott Holmes (far right) and his two great-grandsons. Mr. Mabry fondly recalled drivin..
In honor of Mina Edison's 147th birthday, here are some fun facts! Born July 6, 1865 in Akron, Ohio, Mina Miller was the seventh of eleven children. Her father, Lewis Miller, was an inventor, manufacturer and co-founder of the Chautauqua Institu..
Less than two months ago, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates began a 'Trials Garden' to gauge how well different varieties of Coleus and Caladium would fair in the Florida summer sunshine (read that post here: Come See the New Addition To Our Garde..
July 30th marks the 149th birthday of Henry Ford and the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is celebrating the day with antique car programs, lectures, and Museum demonstrations throughout the day. As an industrialist, Ford is most noted as the father..
We were trimming yesterday on the Edison & Ford properties for stormscaping.
This is the Palmyra palm from Africa. How do you like the size of that frond? It is well over 10 feet tall.
The palm was encroaching..In the past few years, the automotive department of South Fort Myers High School has successfully completed a very unique new restoration program to several of the antique car collection of Edison Ford. In the upcoming months, they will undertake r..
One of the historical features of both the Edison and Ford estates throughout their history has always been the flourishing mango trees. In fact, in Edison’s day, they dubbed the line of mangoes along the fence line as “Orchid Lane” because t..
Just as Thomas Edison created experimental botanical gardens related to his rubber research, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates has created an experimental botanical ‘Trials’ Garden to determine the sun tolerance and growth patterns for eight v..
Todd Roy, Edison Ford Horticulturist & Garden Shoppe Manager
As I strolled through the garden Saturday I came across the first ripe Mango of the season. The Southern Blush variety is..
Stories of the Past, an oral history of Edison Ford began in April with the premier of the exhibit ..
Into the Wild: Edison, Ford & Friends has been selected for national distribution to more than 350 public television stations across the nation. The half-hour documentary produced by WGCU-TV brings to life the annual camping excursions of three..
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is growing many varieties of heirloom tomatoes in the organic vegetable garden. Stop by and check it out for yourself and ask our horticulturists about their secrets to growing beautiful and tasty tomatoes...
Are you interested in learning more about Hydroponics? The Edison and Ford Winter Estates has added a new display using hydroponic gardening techniques. What exactly is hydroponics? Hydroponics is a method of gardening and growing plants in a ..
Did you know that some of the plants represented in the movie Avatar are also grown on the Edison and Ford Winter Estates? I found it interesting to learn that some of the plants that inspired those used in the movie Avatar were based on plants li..
Old Fashioned Recipe for Ginger Snaps 2 cups brown sugar 2 cups molasses 1 cup shortening 4 cups flour 1 ½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon soda 1 teaspoon ginger 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon cloves Heat and bring to boiling point sugar, molasses, shor..
Old Fashioned Recipe for Corn Flake Cookies Whites of 2 eggs beaten stiff 1 cup of pecans and a few black walnuts cut in pieces ½ cup sugar 2 cups toasted corn flakes Beat egg whites stiff, adding sugar gradually. Fold in nuts and carefully fold..
The untimely death of beloved Apple founder & CEO Steve Jobs earlier this month spurred a slew of articles comparing him to Thomas Edison, not to mention Henry Ford and Walt Disney. Jobs himself listed these men amongst those who inspired his w..
Old Fashioned Recipe for Hickory Nut Cake Thomas Edison’s favorite, according to a letter from John Randolph, dated April 2, 1903. 1 ½ cups of sugar 1 cup of butter scaint 1 cup of milk 3 cups of flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 8 egg whites 1 ..
Do sausages grow on trees? The Sausage Trees at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates have some growing now.
The sausages growing on our trees really aren’t sausages after all. They are actually just the fruit or seed pod forme..Our horticulturists recently went to Naples to pick up a donated stag horn fern. The plant was donated by the family of Kenneth and Ruth Ann Bruce and had been in their yard for well over thirty years. They are relocating and wanted the stag horn fer..
Have you ever wanted a Royal Poinciana Tree, but in a much smaller size? Consider our October plant of the month the Dwarf Poinciana for your next garden addition. The Dwarf Poinciana (Caesalpinina pulcherrima) is an evergreen shrub that can be tr..
In the spirit of Thomas Edison and his botanic research at his winter retreat in Fort Myers, Florida, Edison Ford horticulturists and volunteer Master Gardener Bob Soter are experimenting with sunflowers in the Edison Ford Organic Heritage Garden. ..
The Edison Ford Organic Heritage Garden, located in the Edison Research Gardens, is officially one year old in October! Throughout the year, the garden has produced a wide variety of organic fruits and vegetables similar to ones grown over 100 years..
Old Fashioned Recipe for Mina’s Deviled Crab 1/3 cup butter 1 teaspoon dried mustard 1 tablespoon flour 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 eggs ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup cream 2 full cups crab meat ½ cup celery and little red peppers if desired C..
In the late 1920’s, the Edison Botanic Research Corporation (EBRC) was on a mission. Botanical specimen collectors scoured the countryside searching for trees, vines, bushes, and botanical specimens of all types so that the EBRC lab could test th..
Old Fashioned Recipe for Chocolate Caramels 1 cup of milk 1 cup of molasses 1 small cup of butter (size of an egg) 2 cups of sugar ½ pound of chocolate 1 teaspoon of flour 2 teaspoons of vanilla Combine milk, molasses and butter and let boil until..
Did you know that Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, and Thomas Edison collaborated on a major research initiative? Beginning in 1927, and with a research lab being built the following year, the Edison Botanic Research Corporation (EBRC) was created to f..
Old Fashioned Recipe for Egg Croquettes 11 hard boiled eggs, chopped fine ½ pint boiled milk 1 tablespoon melted butter 1 tablespoon flour Cook flour in butter, add ½ pint hot milk, stirring until smooth, then add other ingredients. Make into c..
Most people love to buy flowers for their gardens. What if you could get foliage as colorful as flowers that also hold up great in heat and humidity? One of our favorites is the intricate heart and strap shaped leaves of Caladiums. These leaves ..
Do you want to plant and grow your own Papaya? Here are some tips that can help.
The Papaya tree (Carica papaya) is a tropical fruit that originated in Mexico and South America. It is now grown th..Here's our favorite recipe for Papaya Smoothies: Papaya Smoothie Recipe 2 cups chopped peeled & seeded Papaya 1 cup chilled pineapple juice 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt 1 banana 4 ice cubes 1 tablespoon honey Juice of 1 lime Combine all ingr..
Yum! Our recipe for Papaya Salsa will have you running to the store (or garden) for ingredients! Papaya Salsa 1 Papaya peeled, seeded and chopped. 1 cup tomato chopped ½ cup cucumber chopped ¼ cup onion chopped 3 tablespoons fresh lime jui..
Are all Mangoes created equal? Try some of the many varieties and experience the variations in flavor, sweetness and texture.
With over a thousand varieties of mangoes in the world, not all them taste the same or o..Here's our favorite recipe for Mango Smoothies: 1 large mango 1 banana (optional) ½ cup yogurt 1 cup orange juice 6 ice cubes Blend until smooth. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates sells fresh mangoes in season every Thursday at the downtow..
Below is our favorite Mango Salsa recipe: 1 mango peeled and diced ¼ cup red pepper chopped ¼ cup sweet onion chopped Cilantro chopped to taste Juice of 1 lime 1 tsp diced jalapeno Salt and pepper to taste Mix all ingredients in bowl, chil..
The Carambola, also called Star Fruit, is a small to medium sized tree that produces a juicy tropical fruit. The flavor combines those of the apple, grape and citrus and is crisp in texture. The fruit can be eaten fresh and is often used in salads an..
The season is upon us for harvesting the fruit of the Lychee tree. Despite the fruits addictive flavor, it remains one of China’s best kept secrets. Lychees have a rough outer skin that separates easily leaving you with a flesh that is sweet to sub..
The Avocado is not your typical fruit because it eats like a vegetable. In Florida, it is often called the Alligator Pear because of the fruit’s shape and rough textured skin. All Avocados are self pollinating with the male and f..
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is dotted with so many mango trees, that Henry Ford named his estate “The Mangoes.” In the rainforests, they’ve been known to grow up to 120 feet high. Not only do they provide excellent shade but some o..
Looking for some great recipes to make use of your seasonal Florida fruit? Here are some of our favorites: Mango Salsa Mango Smoothies Papaya Salsa Papaya Smoothies Old Fashioned Recipes from Edison's Family & Friends Recipes Egg Croquett..
The Edison Ford Winter Estates is the perfect starting place to learn about some of the many varieties of tropical fruit trees that will grow well in your SW Florida garden. Our Garden Shoppe has a great selection of treesfor you to enjoy. Mang..
Next time you buy a Pineapple, plant the top and grow a new one for FREE! Every time you purchase a pineapple and throw away the top you are passing up on an opportunity to grow a new one! The next time you buy a pineapple, follow these ste..
Bulbine (Bulbine frutescens, Burn Jelly Plant). We have a great new plant available at the gardens and it is a relative newcomer to the gardening industry in the last few years. It is the perfect choice for the homeowner who wants..
If you are interested in adding a striking new specimen to your garden, then perhaps you might consider planting one of the Dombeya varieties. The Pink Ball, better known as Tropical Hydrangea, is a large shrub or small tree..
Thomas Alva Edison, posthumously received the 2011 Great Floridian Award from Governor Rick Scott and Secretary of State Kurt S. Browning at the Florida Heritage Awards Ceremony in Tallahassee. Edison and his family wintered in Fort Myers from 18..
New Ground Photography was recently at the Estates for a very long day of shooting. The breathtaking images they took of the property are shared below. Click on the photo to view larger. Photography: New Ground Photography / 239..
What can reach three feet in length, weigh up to 60 lbs and smell like decaying onion? A jackfruit, the largest tree-borne fruit in the world.
Sometimes ca..
The first person to correctly name this plant wins a free purple firespike plant, which was featured last week. Contest ends Feb 15 - we'll add a few more clues over the next few days if no one guesses correctly. If you sign up for the email aler..
On February 11, 1929, Thomas and Mina Edison, Henry and Clara Ford, Harvey and Idabelle Firestone, and President-Elect Herbert Hoover and his wife Lou and son Herbert Jr., rode through the streets of Fort Myers in honor of the world-famous inventor..
If you're looking for a tall, winter-time butterfly plant, purple firespike, Odontonema callistachyum, is a good choice for southern Florida. Growing up to six feet tall, it starts blooming in autumn and the blooms may last through winter in Zone 10...
Know what this plant is? Good! Please tell us! It sprouted on its own in one of our raised beds in our Heritage Garden and we don't know what it is. I..
Win this hanging basket of gazania by being the first to correctly identify eight of the plants featured in yesterday's What's Blooming post. Number and write your answers as a comment to this blog post below. Include th..
We finally have a winner to our garden puzzler: This fruit’s name was once used as a verb describing a specific way to preserve food. In the 1700's, the word mango was used as a verb meaning to pickle. For a time, anything pickled was called..
I'm bringing back a puzzle that had everyone stumped when it first appeared a few months ago... This fruit’s name was once used as a verb describing a specific way to preserve food.
Do you know the names of the frui..
Remember what our organic garden looked like
the weekend before Thanksgiving?
[caption id="attachment_856" align="aligncenter" width="328" caption="Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticu..Yesterday we gave you two jumbled words to unscramble and the first lucky puzzle solver to respond received a free plant! The answers are: 1) cetuslcun = succulent: plants adapted for arid conditions, usually thick- leaved with superior water-rete..
Our "Name That plant, Win That Plant" game is popular, but for those of you who aren't good at identifying plants from photos, maybe this new contest will help you add some plants to your collection. Unscramble the two words describing the type of p..
In his search for a source of latex rubber, Thomas Edison experimented with hundreds of species of plants at his Fort Myers estate, including the poinsettia, Euphorbia pulcherrima. Our records indicate that 150 poinsettias were planted in the resea..
Now that cold temperatures have arrived at the Estates, our garden staff has to keep a close eye on the weather and take action to protect some of the plants we have in the gardens. We use a high-quality frost cloth to cover the tropical and sub-tr..
Take a look at some of our recent blooms and visitors... ..
A sampling of the blooms and fruits you can see at the Estates today... ..
Just two of the beautiful plants flowering today at the Estates. [caption id="attachment_758" align="alignle..
As promised yesterday, here are more photos of plants currently blooming and fruiting at the Estates. Please tell us what you think of the blog and help us make it more useful. Fill out a quick five question survey by clicking here. [gallery lin..
Here's a peek at some of the plants currently blooming and fruiting at the Estates. Check back tomorrow for more photos of additional flowers! Please tell us what you think of the blog and help us make it more useful. Fill out a quick five ques..
Roselle, Hibiscus sabdariffa Who wants tea? Not only is the roselle a pretty plant with cranberry red stems and fall season blooms, but the dried flower can be used to make tea. Also, at the base of each flower is the calyx, which is harvested abo..
Following my report on the zombie palm, here's another plant at the Estates with a creepy name: DEVIL TREE, Alstonia scholaris. Like most common names, it's hard to pinpoint how the name came about. Some say it's because the seedpods, which hang dow..
Be the first to identify this plant and win that plant or a peace lily! The correct answer will be announced Wednesday, October 27. We've made this one challenging and if no ones guesses correctly in the next few days, we'll reveal a little ..
Your opinion is valued! Please take our short 5 question survey to help us make this blog better. And don't forget the special discount for Garden Blog readers on all Garden Shoppe items this month! ..
Desert Rose, Adenium obesum Don’t let this plant’s common name fool you. It is not a “rose” and although native to sub-Saharan Africa and the deserts of the southwestern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, this interesting plant grows well in So..
This fruit's name was once used as a verb describing a specific way to preserve food. Do you know the names of the fruit and the preservation method? This is just for fun - no prizes, just bragging rights! UPDATE: The fruit and preservation method..
During October, I'll be blogging about plants with creepy names or features to get us in the spirit of Halloween. The first spooky entry: ZOMBIE PALM! The “zombie” term is probably derived from the plant’s scientific name, Zombia antillaru..
Be the first to identify this plant and win that plant or a peace lily! The correct answer will be announced Wednesday, October 6. Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first..
Tamarind, Tamarindus indica Did you know you can grow one of the ingredients in Worcestershire sauce right in your backyard? The fruits of the tamarind tree are used throughout the world in chutneys, drinks, candy and sauces. In the US, t..
You probably haven't, but you've eaten one if you've eaten a fig! The fruits of most ficus trees (like the Estates banyan) are called figs. The fig is made up of stem tissue and the flowers of the tree are inside the fig. All figs are pollinated ..
Be the first to identify this plant and win it! The correct answer will be announced Wednesday, September 15. Here's a hint: It's a tree.
Contest Rules: Leave a comm..
Congratulations to Deborah Aldridge for correctly guessing this week’s Name That Plant! Cherries Jubilee Allamanda, Allamanda cathartica 'Cherries Jubilee' Need a summertime bloomer for your garden? The allam..
Last night after the heavy rain I rode my bike along McGregor Blvd and as soon as I got near the Estates, the air was thick with the scent of the Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) tree's flowers. The Ylang Ylang is near McGr..
Be the first to identify this plant and win it! The correct answer will be announced Wednesday, September 8. This one might be a little tough so we'll give you some clues in the next few days if no one guesses correctly. Contest Rules: Lea..
Lady of the Night, Brunfelsia americana You’ll want to find the perfect spot for this plant so you can enjoy its wonderfully fragrant nighttime blooms. The fragrance has been compared to jasmine but with a hint of cloves and cinnamon. Nativ..
Due to high demand, we sold out of our queen's wreath, Petrea volubilis, a few months ago. Ever since, Garden Shoppe visitors have asked when it will be back in stock. We now have one gallon containers available for $10. Stop by our Garden..
Here's a sneak peek at some of the blooms that will be listed in September's "What's Blooming" at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates... ..
Be the first to identify this plant and win it! The correct answer will be announced Wednesday, September 1. Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct answer may choose..
Congratulations to Colin Brenner for correctly identifying this week's mystery plant! Lipstick Tree, Bixa orellana If you’ve eaten cheddar cheese, you’ve eaten the product of this plant. The seeds of the lipstick tree, or achiote tree, are us..
Be the first to identify this plant and win it! The correct answer will be announced next Wednesday. Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct answer may choose to recei..
Dwarf allamanda, Allamanda schottii 'Compacta' This cultivar is made to withstand our tough Florida summers and look great doing it! The dwarf alamanda should produce bright yellow blooms all summer and into the fall. You may be familiar wit..
Here's another chance to win a plant from the Edison and Ford Winter Estates Garden Shoppe. Identify this plant, and it could be yours! We'll share the answer next Wednesday. Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with..
Last week we tested your plant knowledge and asked you to identify this plant: Congratulations to Barbra Goodrich Justice for correctly identifying it. As this week's winner, Barbra will be awarded her own golden dewdrop plant! Golden dewdrop..
Can you identify this plant? Here's a close up of one of the petals. Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct answer may choose to receive the mystery plant (if available..
Congratulations to Megan Kissinger for guessing correctly, a mere 5 minutes after the contest began! Angel’s Trumpet, Brugmansia spp. The large pendulous flowers of this large shrub will surely attract attention in your Florida yard. Growin..
The ylang ylang tree at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates has finally started blooming! The oils of this flower are used to make perfumes such as Chanel No. 5, so you can imagine how fragrant it is. The tree is close to the fence along McGrego..
The first person to correctly identify this plant will WIN IT! We will announce the winner and the correct answer next Wednesday! Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct..
Congratulations to Patricia Travis for winning this week's Name That Plant! Shell ginger, Alpinia zerumbet A tall landscape plant, shell ginger (or one of the many other gingers available), provide striking background foliage in the landscape...
Strange things are afoot at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates this week! Our azalea is blooming! Normally azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) bloom a few weeks after temperatures drop below 50°F and then warm up. The Estates' azalea has a of couple b..
Last week we asked you to identify this plant. Not a single one guessed correctly. The answer is Copperleaf. Copperleaf, Acalypha wilkesiana The multi-colored leaves of this tall accent plant are quite distinct and add a year-round splash o..
The first to correctly identify this plant will win the plant. We will announce the correct answer and the winner next Wednesday! Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct..
Last week, we asked our readers to identify the plant below. The person who correctly identified it first would win the mystery plant. This week, Sally Skabar came the closest by identifying the genus as Jatropha. Congratulations, Sally! Cor..
The game continues! Can you identify this plant? We will post the answer next Tuesday! Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct answer may choose to receive the mys..
With all the flowering plants in the Estates Garden Shoppe, herb garden and butterfly garden, now is a good time to be a nectar-seeking insect at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates! We are seeing quite a few species of butterflies and moths on th..
Can you identify this plant? We will post the answer next Tuesday! Contest Rules: Leave a comment on Facebook or the Garden Blog with your answer. The person with the first correct answer may choose to receive the mystery plant (if available) ..
by Britta Soderqvist, Plant Curator Last week we asked you to identify this plant: Today, we have the answer for you - Strawberry Tree or Jamaica Cherry, Muntingia calabura This is a perfect tree for a lazy gardener! Do you enjoy sweet, hom..
by Britta Soderqvist, Estates Plant Curator Fringed Hibiscus, Hibiscus schizopetalus The fringed hibiscus is a fast-growing shrub native to Africa. Like other hibiscus, it has five petals and a long stigma, but the petals of this plant are di..
by Britta Soderqvist, Estates Plant Curator Dwarf Poinciana, Caesalpinia pulcherrima This is a fast-growing shrub or small tree, growing up to 12 feet in height and sometimes 12 feet in width. It blooms best in full sun and tolerates drought we..
There is always something blooming at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Take a look at what's in bloom right now: ..
by Britta Soderqvist, Estates Plant Curator There is a tree at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates whose small white flowers smell like buttered popcorn! It just started blooming in late May. ..
On Monday we asked you to identify this plant: The correct answer is Bromeliad. There are over 3,000 species of bromeliad including the pineapple. This particular variety can be seen to the left of the entrance gate to the Homes & Garden..
Here's a new one for you. Can you identify this plant? We will share the answer on Friday...
On Friday, we asked our fans if they could identify this plant: The plant is the fruit of the pin cushion tree (Sarcocephalus latifolius), sometimes called African peach. The tree is in the public gardens near the ticket office at the Estates. ..
Can you identify what this plant is? We will give the correct answer on Monday! ..
Here's just a taste of what is in bloom currently at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates: ..
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates boasts a collection of over 350 orchids. Take a peak at some that are blooming this month: ..
by Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist The recent frost and continued cold weather in Southwest Florida gave some insight into what the rest of the country has been experiencing all winter. Some of the foliage at the Estates, such as the sours..
In the September Estates blog post, You Say Tomato, I Say..., I discussed how to start tomato plants. Already, the tomatoes are sprouting and are big enough to leave the greenhouse flats. They are now in 4” pots and available for purchase. M..
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates received the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) 2009 Phoenix Award at a reception at the Royal Palm Yacht Club, in Fort Myers, Florida on November 18, 2009. The SATW Phoenix Awards recognize organizations..
Gardener’s soap has been popular with gardeners and folks who use their hands in their work for many years. There are many and various ingredients used in Gardener’s Soaps and here’s a glossary to help you choose the right one for you. Exfolia..
by Rebecca Jones, Estates Collections Information Specialist Southwest Florida is home to the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Best known for his work with electricity and the light bulb, Edison also..
By Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist The calamondin is thought to be a cross between a mandarin (tangerine), and a kumquat thus the botanical name, x citrusfortunella microcarpa. Calamondins are quite small however when ..
By Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist While most of the country is winding down their harvest season, in Southwest Florida we are getting prepared for our fall and winter season of growing vegetables. Since the days are getting shorter ..
By Dick Dutton, Estates Plant Curator Ackee, Blighia sapida, Sapindaceae The Ackee (or Akee) is a native to West Africa but found a new home in Jamaica in the 18th Century. The scientific name, Blighia sapida, is named for Captain William Bli..
by Dick Dutton, Plant Curator Ylang Ylang Tree, Cananga odorata, Annonaceae The Ylang Ylang is an evergreen tree around 30 to 45 feet tall with gracefully drooping branches. It is often grown in the gardens of Southeast Asia and has yellow-gree..
by Dick Dutton, Plant Curator The Dwarf Poinciana is a large shrub/small tree that has flowers resembling a Royal Poinciana tree with the advantage of a smaller size. The Royal Poinciana, considered by some the most beautiful flowering tree in the..
by Dick Dutton, Estates Plant Curator
Candlenut Tree, Aleurites moluccana, Euphorbiaceae, Old and New World Tropics The Candlenut tree is the state tree of Hawaii. It is one of the few trees that has a motto: ..
by Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist Take a walk around the neighborhood and open your eyes and your nose. Many of our great wonders can’t be found while driving in a car. Get out of the house in the summertime – I find the cooler night ..
by Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist
I was fortunate enough last weekend to visit the strange Ghost orchid at the Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary near Naples, FL. The term “visit” usually describe..by Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist It’s summer in Florida and rain doesn’t seem to be on the menu for the month of July. One way the Edison and Ford Winter Estates is coping with the dry weather is by using rain barrels. With the help ..
by Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist The Estates has many edible plants this time of year, such as curcuma (turmeric), shampoo ginger, galangal, lemongrass, allspice, okra, eggplant, roselle, and pepper seedlings. When the season cools down, t..
by Debbie Hughes, Estates Horticulturist Everyone needs a tree in their yard to provide some shade, and our summer rainy season is a perfect time for planting. I am going to tell you a little secret to help you decide on what tree to choose. The m..
On February 10 at 11:00 AM, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will be installing a statue of Mina Edison created by artist D.J. Wilkins and donated by Orvall McCleary. The statue is cast in composite aluminum. She is “heroic size” (25% la..
Join lead historian Tim and hear the story of how Fort Myers was jolted into modernity by Albertus A. Gardner. This free virtual presentation will take place on Zoom. Advance registration is required. Or click here to see our archives...
On June 18 at 10:30 a.m. join Museum Manager Holly Shaffer for a virtual presentation about the Lincoln assassination. Learn about the events leading up to the assassination, and what happened after. Join Program Manager Holly Shaffer for this fr..
Join us for a unique opportunity to: Meet robotics teams & coaches Learn about First LEGO League Explore hands-on activities Note that this free event does not include admission to the museum, laboratory, or riverside. Space is limi..
Step away from all the 21st century gadgets and focus on the moment. All skill levels welcome. The class is taught by Bonnie D’Angelo, a certified yoga instructor. Bring a yoga mat, water, and towel. Tickets are available online or at the ticket..
Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary to participate in these fun and fast-moving S.T.E.A.M. (science technology, engineering, art, and math) camps. For students currently in grades K-5, ..
Join Program Manager Ryan Boyer as he discusses Thomas Edison's efforts to electrify the United States. Learn how this period led to the formation of one of the U.S.'s first industrial conglomerates, the Edison General Electric Company, and how force..
On May 21 at 10:30 a.m. join Museum Manager Holly Shaffer for a virtual presentation about Amelia Earhart. Learn the story of Amelia’s life and her historic accomplishments as a pioneer in the field of aviation and women’s rights. Registration..
Join us for a new Farmers Market! There will be fresh produce and other products available for purchase. Guests can shop the vendor booths, listen to live music, and stroll through the Bromeliad and wildflower gardens! There will also be food trucks..
Step into history with a discussion on Harry Bennett, one of the most infamous employees in Ford Motor Company history and Henry Ford’s best friend. Harry Bennett rose through the ranks of the Ford Motor Company from an artist to head of ..
Discover all the roles that women undertook during the American Civil War. Join Edison Ford museum manager Holly Shaffer for this virtual presentation. Click here to register for this presentation. Click here to view our digital discussion arc..
Often relegated to the untamed portions of the yard and thus underappreciated, this program is geared to bringing native plants front and center as garden foundations or to enhance existing gardens with more native plantings. Many native shrubs and t..
Get ready for a bloomin’ summer! Summer brings unique opportunities for Southwest Florida gardeners – this year, our annual Grow Fort Myers program is offering a day of classes to prepare gardeners to get the most out of their summer gardens. ..
For spectators wanting to learn more about the history of spring training and the baseball legends that played in Fort Myers, join Edison Ford program manager, Holly Shaffer for this presentation. Included with general admission. ..
The Pittsburgh Pirates made Fort Myers their spring training home in 1955, and won the World Series in 1960. Roberto Clemente was one of the numerous stars who played their spring training games in Fort Myers. Join Program Manager Holly Shaffer to le..
Anita Singh from Flowers by Anita will guide you step-by-step in crafting your own unique Easter floral basket. You'll discover various techniques and design principles, ensuring that you leave with a stunning centerpiece that will impress your famil..
Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host a day of vintage “base ball” on March 17 at historic Terry Park. Join us to celebrate the early days of our national pastime with three teams playing consecutive games (the Fort Myers Vagabonds, Bradenton ..
Discover how the MLB team the Philadelphia Athletics came to Fort Myers and changed the city’s history. Learn about their legendary Baseball Hall of Fame manager/owner Connie Mack and his time here in Fort Myers. Join Program Manager Holly Shaffe..
To celebrate spring training and Thomas Edison's love of baseball, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is holding a special event to showcase a new exhibit that highlights some baseball legends who once played at Terry Park in Fort Myers. Cornelius McG..
Get ready to dance the night away with Liz "Hunny" Heath and a five-piece band. Liz “Hunny” Heath has been singing professionally all across Florida. She currently performs with Nightbird, a Stevie Nicks tribute. The accomplished band members joi..
If you like listening to Jimmy Buffett, you won’t want to miss this concert! The Caribbean Chillers will put on an authentic show that's sure to please any parrot head. There will be a cash bar and refreshments available for purchase (no outside fo..
Join us for an exciting workshop on the art of carving flowers on watermelons! Led by Anita Singh, Designer and owner of Flowers by Anita, this hands-on workshop will teach you the techniques to create stunning floral carvings on watermelons. Duri..
Please join Lead Historian Tim Snyder on February 7 at 10:30 a.m. for our next Digital Step into History. Tim will be looking back at the Chautauqua movement started by Mina Edison’s Father Lewis Miller. Learn how Mina’s Father’s visi..
What do Franklin Roosevelt, the 7th New Hamphsire Infantry, a prison and Dr. Samuel Mudd all have in common? You will learn the answer to those Fort Jefferson is located in the Dry Tor..
On February 22 at 10 a.m., in honor of Thomas Edison’s birthday, author Alexandra Rimer returns to speak about the birthday celebrations that Mina Edison held for Thomas over the years in Fort Myers. Rimer is the author of the recently published bo..
Come celebrate Thomas Edison's birthday with us! The annual tradition continues with students from the Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School singing, dancing and playing stringed instruments. Cake will be served for visitors attending th..
Offered several times each season, Etiquette classes are for children ages 6-12. These classes are two-hour sessions in good manners and teach proper introduction, handshakes and dining etiquette during a three-course meal. Each student will receive ..
Part ll takes a deeper look into Southwest Florida gardening techniques and challenges and introduces the participant to many more semi-tropical plants and trees as well as growing favorites from the North. The University of Florida has developed a h..
Are you new to Florida gardening? This program was created for those new to semi-tropical and tropical gardening. In this two-part program, we will unlock the challenges of leaving behind northern concepts and advancing gardening skills by explaining..
Since Thomas Edison adorned his McGregor Road fenceline with crotons, they have become a colorful staple in our gardens. Join our garden talk for tips on growing some unusual varieties and coaxing the best colors and flowers, yes, flowers, from these..
Learn about Harriet Tubman as conductor on the underground railroad. Discover the role she played in Florida during the Civil War. Join Program Manager Holly Shaffer for this free virtual presentation. Click here to register. Visit our archi..
Join historian Baylee W. as she explores "Beauty is Pain: A Look Back into 19th Century Trends." During this presentation, she will delve into the intriguing practices that were done in the name of beauty in the Victorian era. Baylee will not on..
Note: The morning class has sold out, so a second class will be offered from 4-5:30 p.m. Get into the festive spirit and unleash your creativity with our Christmas floral design class, hosted by Flowers by Anita. During this interactive class, pa..
Join us for the biggest plant sale of the year! The festival will also feature food trucks and live music. Numerous garden vendors from around the state of Florida will have many types of plants and trees, including palms, fruit trees, bromeliads, hi..
In partnership with the Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society, there will be hundreds of different species of Bromeliads for sale, including rare species. Experts from the society will be on hand to answer questions about Bromeliads. Visitors will also be..
Join Assistant Program Manager Ryan Boyer for Step into History: Digital Edition, as he discusses Thomas Edison’s role in the development of the stock ticker. This presentation reveals how Th..
Spend the evening along the river, while enjoying great music, a fantastic view, and refreshing beverages! The Collaboration Band is a group of veteran musicians dedicated to performing authentic soul, R&B, and Motown. Each member brings years of exp..
The public is invited to come do their Christmas shopping at the Estates! Craft vendors and holiday merchants will have tents under the trees adjacent to the historic Banyan tree. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Admission to the holid..
In partnership with the Fort Myers Woman's Community Club, guests may select from dozens of unique, handmade wreaths being auctioned to benefit restoration and preservation efforts at the Estates. Come see the lights, listen to music, enjoy some appe..
Tootie McGregor Terry left a legacy for the people of Fort Myers. She was a neighbor of Thomas and Mina Edison and generously gave of her wealth and her t..
Join us for a festive celebration just for members! The party will take place in the River Pavilion, along the Caloosahatchee and the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers will perform holiday songs.
Tickets are required an..
Join Dr. Robert Apple for a presentation on the 1917 Conquest of Florida Festival, which was Fort Myers' first major multi-day festival put on to attract winter visitors. The festival's final day featured an event that was novel for the time-- a para..
Join Dr. Robert Apple for a presentation that tells the story of Fort Myers' brass band, which was founded the same year as the town's incorporation in 1885. This presentation will also discuss the long-time friendship that Thomas Edison formed with ..
November is the perfect time to plant herbs in your garden! Come to this garden talk and learn about the best herbs to grow here in Southwest Florida during the winter months, which herbs grow best in pots, uncommon herbs, best plant companion for he..
Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with Breakthru Beverage Group and Grazing Haus to offer visitors the opportunity to sample wine and cheese at the historic site. The event will take place on Friday, November 3, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the ri..
Join us for a 5k run and walk to benefit preservation at the Estates and the Fort Myers Track Club scholarship fund. Register online by November 22 through the Fort Myers Track Club. Pre-registration is required, as registration will not be available..
Decorate cookies, drink cocoa and see the Holiday Nights lights! This event provides families with a night out to see the lights and still get the cookies made! Offered on December 22, from 6-8 p.m. A hot cocoa bar and admission to Holiday Nights ..
Over 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops fought a five-hour battle in a forest near Olustee. Three United States Colored Troops took part in the battle, including the 54th Massachusetts. The battle ended with 2,807 casualties and Union troo..
Don't miss thousands of lights, hundreds of historic decorations, and one unique holiday experience! Returning for the 48th season, Holiday Nights has been revamped with new light displays and much more. Don't miss the Children’s Holiday Tree Trail..
If you think there is only one kind of gardenia to grow in your garden, come to this Garden Talk. During this 45 minute program we will introduce you to some surprising varieties of gardenias from shrubs, to small trees, to even a beautiful yellow ..
April 23 (Tuesday 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM) or April 27 (Saturday – 10 AM to Noon): This class is designed to introduce a large variety of plants that will enhance your gardens with olfactory bouquets – all season long. Whether your goal is to crea..
This event is now sold out. Wear your hats, gloves and pearls and enjoy meeting Clara as she provides a behind the scenes look at the ongoing restoration of her summer home, Fair Lane in Dearborn, Michigan while sharing some insight into her life ..
March 19 (Tuesday 1:30 – 3:30) or March 23 (Saturday 10:00 am – Noon): Often relegated to the untamed portions of the yard and thus underappreciated, this program is geared to bringing native plants front and center as garden foundations or to..
One of the most sought-after garden perennials in Southwest Florida, Hibiscus has always been historically important within the gardens at Edison Ford. Mrs. Clara Ford loved her Hibiscus schizopetalus and Mrs. Mina Edison used Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ..
February 20 (Tuesday, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM) or February 24 (Saturday, 10:00 AM to Noon): The program will start with the unique construction of this large family of plants known as palms – what defines a palm, understanding the importance and dis..
Back by popular demand, it’s our holiday wreath-making class! But this year our Events and Horticulture departments are teaming up to enhance your experience. Grab your fun holiday wear and a friend and join us at our pavilion on the Caloosahatch..
With the holidays approaching quickly, it’s time to get waxing! That’s right, waxing a live amaryllis bulb -- one day only, we will teach the art of waxing and decorating a large amaryllis bulb. Your creation will be a fully self-contained flora..
Our annual autumn Garden Festival will feature garden vendors from around the state with tropical and native plants and trees for sale, in addition to food trucks and live music. Vendors will have many types of plants and trees, including air plan..
Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the first person to win it twice. She devoted her life to scientific research and was a pioneer in the field of radioactivity. Learn about her life and how her research changed the world. Jo..
Each year, classic car owners exhibit more than 100 cars on the Ford estate lawn as a tribute to Henry Ford, the pioneer of the automobile industry. Along with the car show, there will be music, food trucks and visitors can tour the gardens, m..
Saturday & Sunday, October 14-15 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Join us for two days filled with all things orchids! There will be guest speakers talking about various topics related to orchids, several vendors will have orchids available for sale, and ..
December 8-9, 2023 Take an overnight trip to Deland with us! Friday, we will go to Harry P. Leu Gardens in the afternoon, then we will stay in Deland Friday night. We’ll tour Stetson Saturday morning and Morse Museum Saturday afternoon before re..
Help save a life at the next Blood Drive! Your donation through the Lee Health Blood Center will stay in Lee County and benefit local residents and visitors in need. All donors will receive a Thank you gift and wellness checkup, including blood press..
See the homes decorated with quilts featuring intricate, whimsical designs at the "Airing of the Quilts" quilt show. Dozens of quilts from the Southwest Florida Quilters Guild will be on display, suspended from clothes lines between the palms in fron..
On September 14 we will have a special MEMBERS ONLY event! Come meet Brent Newman, our chief curator, and learn what it's like to be the curator at a world-class historic site. The curatorial team will discuss the new "Fanatics: Thomas Edison, Connie..
This tour was so popular before, we've decided to return. We'll go to the Ringling Museum of Art, have lunch at the Ringling Grill Room, then take a tour of the Ca' d'Zan and gardens, and then tour the two circus museums. More information will be ..
VIP Tour - Tarpon Springs Saturday, November 4, 2023 - Depart 7:00 a.m. - Return 7:00 p.m. (times are approximate) History of Tarpon Springs, Sponge Industry and the native Greek culture Tarpon Springs is located on central Florida’s Gulf..
Note: This is a two-part class with sessions on November 4 and 11; participants should attend both sessions. Hypertufa is a light weight concrete mixture comprised of Portland cement, perlite, water, and peat moss. The mixture can be poured into..
Children will play, learn, and gain social skills as they explore science, technology, engineering and more in the museum. Offered the first Wednesday of each month, September through March. This program is free for Edison Ford members and include..
Join us and explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Our Wild Wizards will challenge your mind and foster collaboration in this homeschool science and engineering series. Homeschool classes at Edison Ford are aligned..
Campers learn about the history of electricity with exciting demonstration and hands-on activities. The physics of circuits is explored as campers work on designing their own electrical system. Join us as science and history come alive in our ..
Campers will take part in experiments that fizz, bang, pop, and inspire curiosity. This one-day camp is perfect for budding young scientists! Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary to p..
Campers learn how to use the Engineering Design Process to navigate problem solving challenges in this fast-paced camp. Each day focuses on a different theme in engineering as campers use teamwork and creativity to solve challenges and apply new sk..
Explore the green laboratory of the Edison Ford Winter Estates. Campers take a deep dive into the botanical work done by Thomas Edison right here in Fort Myers. The day’s fun will also include minerals, slime, and a splash of American history s..
Learn how to build machines and mechanisms in the mechanical engineering camp. Explore simple machines, complex gearing systems, and concepts of motion in this exciting study of marvelous machines. Join us as science and history come alive in ou..
Campers get in gear as they engage in energetic engineering challenges. Paddle boats, balloon cars, and other creations are made and refined in this fast-paced camp! Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No ex..
Chemistry in October is an Edison Ford tradition! Join us as our educators share all the secrets of mad science just in time for a spooky month. Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary..
Campers will explore the fundamentals of art and see the world through a creative lens while working with a variety of media in this one day camp! Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary..
Marjory Stoneman Douglas was part of the women's suffrage movement, author, journalist and conservationist known for her stand against draining the Everglades and reclaiming land for development. Her book The Everglades: River of Grass publish..
Join Flowers by Anita for a delightful workshop, where you'll have the opportunity to create a stunning table centerpiece. Led by floral designer, Anita Singh, this class promises to be a fantastic experience filled with creativity and inspiration. A..
Embrace the enchanting colors and textures of autumn with our Fall Floral Arrangement Workshop, hosted by Anita Singh from Flowers by Anita. In this captivating workshop, participants will be guided through the art of creating stunning floral arr..
Looking to add a touch of tropical paradise to your home decor? Join us for our upcoming tropical floral arrangement class. During this hands-on workshop, you will learn the art of tropical floral arranging, including how to choose the perfect flo..
John Gidding, an architectural designer, tv host, and author will give a special presentation about his newly published book, "At Home with Nature, a Guide to Sustainable, Natural Landscaping" and his inspiration for writing it. In partnership with t..
Mina Miller Edison, the wife of Thomas Edison, was one of 11 children from Akron, Ohio. She was the seventh child, and her beloved younger brother Theodore was the eleventh. Theodore Westwood Miller was attending Yale Law School when he signed up fo..
Mina Edison was a gracious hostess and concerned with the well being of children and the community. Following in her tradition, this two-hour class will teach etiquette and social skills. Students will gather at the Edison Caretaker’s House for a l..
This workshop is for children ages six and up. Floral designer, Anita Singh will guide each child on basic flower care and design ideas. This is a great opportunity to enhance a child’s artistic abilities with flowers. Allow 60-90 minutes. All mate..
Local school students will participate in the annual Art in the Gardens exhibit, located in the Garden Shoppe area. The theme this year is "On the Riverfront" and will include artwork created by the students that depict waves and water. There is no c..
If you enjoy listening to relaxing music as you shop, visit the Edison Ford Shoppe for a special piano performance on Charles Edison's Hallet Davis Piano by Nancie Harper, an Edison Ford volunteer...
This class will instruct participants how to create a decorative basket or vase filled with flowers. Can be purchased as a gift for mothers, daughters, sisters or other special women. Class is taught by floral designer, Anita Singh. To ensure adequat..
This one day camp is perfect to expose your future inventor or innovator to the concepts of S.T.E.A.M.– Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Members: $45 Non-Members: $50 Click here to register...
This week-long camp for students currently in grades 2 through 5 is perfect for all skill levels. Campers will learn coding, from the basic concepts to crafting their own creative projects! Members: $200 Non-Members: $230 Click here to registe..
Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary to participate in these fun and fast-moving S.T.E.A.M. (science technology, engineering, art, and math) camps. For students currently in grades K-5, ..
Please note: Registration has closed for this class. In this class, participants will learn how to create and arrange a rustic bunch of dried blooms and be able to take home the creation to display for a very long time. Floral designer, Anita Sing..
Calling all parrotheads! If you enjoy listening to Jimmy Buffett’s greatest hits, then you won’t want to miss this concert! Wear your favorite beach shirt and come sing along with us on the Ford lawn. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the concert starts a..
The tour will provide a day immersed in the Cuban culture and history of the people and their vibrant neighborhood, located in the heart of Miami. This fun and original walking tour will explore the history and culinary delights of Little Havana. The..
Saturday, February 18, 7:15 a.m. The next VIP tour will take place on February 18, with a trip to Solomon's Castle, lunch at The Lake House in Babcock Ranch and a Global Farm Tour at nearby ECHO. The bus will depart Edison and Ford Winter Estates..
Join us for the next Blood Drive and help save a life! Your donation through the Lee Health Blood Center will stay in Lee County and benefit local residents and visitors in need. All donors will receive a gift and wellness checkup, including blood pr..
If you want to get something special for a loved one this Valentine's Day, Flowers by Anita will be selling beautiful flower bundles on February 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Make your own bouquet to take home, or choose from special pre-made arrangement..
Join floral designer and winner of the 2022 Art in Bloom show, Anita Singh, for this special class on decorating with Roses. Participants will get to examine 12 floral creations, ask questions about and take photos, then select one of the designs to ..
Students will build and test various bridge designs and learn about famous bridges. Classes take place in an outdoor classroom environment (weather permitting). Homeschool classes at Edison Ford are aligned with Next Generation Science and Florida ..
In collaboration with Captiva Spirits. Bring a friend or significant other and learn how to make cocktails and enjoy a beautiful view! The cocktails will include locally produced Captiva Spirits vodka and botanicals sourced from the Edison For..
Students will build and test various bridge designs and learn about famous bridges. Classes take place in an outdoor classroom environment (weather permitting). Homeschool classes at Edison Ford are aligned with Next Generation Science and Florida ..
Two sessions available: Tuesday February 21st at 1:30pm or Saturday March 4th. at 10am. The crown jewel for many gardeners is roses and it was Mina Edison’s favorite plant here at Edison Ford. But oh, what she didn’t know! Forget everythin..
Both Edison and Ford grew tons of fruit during their days here in South Florida including citrus, pineapple, mangos and more! While growing citrus in Florida is possible for the back-door gardener, today, citrus greening presents challenges which we ..
Get creative with floral designer, Anita Singh while learning how to create your very own botanical masterpiece. This course will be highlighting roses, foliage, and how to create a unique Valentine’s Day floral arrangement. We will provide everyth..
Michael Dutra and the Strictly Sinatra Band will return as part of the Rhythm on the River concert series. The group performs many of Sinatra's greatest hits. The event will take place on the Ford lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River. Gates open at 6..
Join us for the next Blood Drive and help save a life! Your donation through the Lee Health Blood Center will stay in Lee County and benefit local residents and visitors in need. All donors will receive a limited-edition, long-sleeved t-shirt and wel..
Anita has been creating floral displays for many years. This class offers a unique opportunity for guests to learn floral arranging and they will make a centerpiece to take home. All materials are included, as well as printed notes, an apron, and ref..
Thursday December 1, 6-8 p.m. Come listen to the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers, see the holiday lights and enjoy refreshments! Prepayment and advance registration required by November 21 at noon. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER. $25 Per Member ..
Come make a holiday wreath or festive door decoration with us, while using different materials from the gardens: grapevine, greens, etc. Enjoy some holiday refreshments (will be provided) while we get creative! All materials are included. Advance reg..
Participants will explore meditative drawing with local artist, Megan Kissinger. This class will take place outdoors in the sprawling grounds of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Participants are encouraged to bring a lunch. The class will meet at ..
Students will join local artist, Megan Kissinger, to learn how to make woven crafts that they can take home. All materials and tools will be provided, but students may bring their own specially chosen ribbons and scissors. Participants are also encou..
In a small group setting, students will explore the world of colorful Gouache painting. Instructor, Renee Lammers, will explore mixing colors, Gouache painting tricks, and complete a demonstration painting before students create their own painting wi..
Anita has been creating floral displays for many years. This class offers a unique opportunity for guests to learn floral arranging and they will make an arrangement to take home. All materials are included, as well as printed notes, an apron, and re..
The Fort Myers Track Club is happy to continue to partner with the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to host our annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk. The 5K course will start and finish at Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Downtown Fort My..
Come spend the day with impressionistic local artist Marie Dyer as she guides you in this plein air acrylic landscape painting workshop. She will cover the fundamentals of composition and structure, color creating mood, mixing paints, and assist in d..
If you need some time to relax and unwind, join us for a silk scarf painting class with Marie Dyer along the Caloosahatchee River. Bring a friend with you and make a silk scarf that can be worn or hung as a piece of artwork. All materials are include..
This family-friendly event will include an autumn market with approximately 30 local craft vendors and artists, plus several fun activities for children. Visitors are invited to stroll around while shopping at the vendor booths, listen to music and g..
Learn about our largest ‘ferns’ on site, those enormous curiosities that hang on heavy chains in and around the Edison Ford Winter Estates. We will also learn about another kind of ‘epiphyte’, the jungle cactus. Everyone knows the most fa..
When the Edisons lived here, there were not any grocery stores. Their caretakers had to discover which foods could be grown in the riverside jungle. This class will discuss the South Florida seasons for growing vegetables, how to improve the soil for..
Looking for some interesting additions to your potted plant collection? Come learn about some truly amazing begonias that simply thrive in the humid, shady corners of the garden. We will explore rhizomatous begonias and cane begonias in particular ..
Find out which are the best plants for the cooler season in Southwest Florida. All participants will receive a 20% off coupon toward garden shop purchases. Cost: members $10, non-members $15. Advance registration not required...
A successful butterfly garden will include not only eye-catching nectar plants, but also a variety of larval host plants. Learn what plants you need in your butterfly garden. Ceraunus b..
Join us for the next Blood Drive and help save a life on August 3 at 10 a.m.! All donors will receive a $20 e-Gift Card, a OneBlood Towel, and Wellness Checkup (blood pressure, temperature, iron count, and cholesterol screening). Appointments are enc..
For children ages 18 months – 5 years, Emerging Inventors programs provide children with opportunities to play, learn, and gain valuable social skills as they explore the hands-on Wizard's Workshop space. In each session, children will interact wit..
There are more than 17 varieties of mango trees throughout the Edison Ford botanical gardens that are thriving and producing fruits. Depending on the variety grown, mangoes can ripen from June through September. Ford’s home was nicknamed “The Man..
Join us for a special tea with "Mina Edison" and "Dr. Ella Mae Piper" at Edison Mall to celebrate Juneteenth. The two icons will talk about life in Fort Myers during the 1920s. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with these historical figure..
Mina Edison was a gracious hostess and concerned with the well being of children and the community. Following in her tradition, this two-hour class will teach etiquette and social skills. Students will gather at the Edison Caretaker’s House for a l..
Mina Edison was a gracious hostess and concerned with the well being of children and the community. Following in her tradition, this two-hour class will teach etiquette and social skills. Students will gather at the Edison Caretaker’s House for a l..
As spring turns into summer, we celebrate the important women in our lives, especially our mothers. In honor of all mothers, we’ll have a pop-up flower shop on site on Mother’s Day, May 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Floral Designer and winner of Ar..
Campers will explore our 20 acre site, learning biology, ecology and more in a fun, natural setting. Registration is required and spaces are limited-- click here to register...
Edison Ford horticultural staff instruct participants on a variety of topics relating to gardening in Southwest Florida: May 14, 2022 – Bulbarama June 11, 2022 – Bromeliads July 9, 2022 – Vines & Trellises All other dates - Topic TB..
Students from local schools will participate in this 14th annual art exhibit. Educators from participating schools will receive a 30” X 30” five-pointed star that students can paint or decorate with recyclable materials. Each school’s star will..
Join us for the opening of the Fort Myers Film Festival! Three films will be shown on the Henry Ford estate lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River where guests will watch movies under the stars. Films include an early Edison piece with sound, a film ab..
St. Petersburg is a very quaint and artsy town right on the Tampa Bay. There are many sites to see and we hope this provides you with suggestions for your next visit to the area. Many nearby locations have membership reciprocity with Edison and Ford...
Aroids are one of the most popular groups of plants for collectors today. They include philodendrons, anthuriums, monstera and much more! This talk will focus on the care and placement, including those that make better houseplants, as well as those t..
Allen "Honest Al" Stare is a baseball historian who will speak at Edison and Ford Winter Estates at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on March 19 about the origins of vintage “base ball.” He’ll explore the evolution of the game, the rule of the umpire, and di..
Learn about the history of spring Training in fort Myers with Program Manager, Holly Shaffer. Included with Estates general admission. ..
On March 6 from noon to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Art in Bloom art show in partnership with the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council. This unique one-day art show features floral designs paired with works of art from th..
If you are looking for something special to do with your sweetie this Valentine’s Day, sign up for this couples’ Cocktail Chemistry Class! The class will be taught by rum experts from Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery. The class will be held in the R..
Join us for the first Rhythm on the River concert of the year! This Sinatra tribute band has been performing all across the country since 2002. They opened for Howie Mandel at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, and performed at the Governor ..
In this class, Kissinger teaches the basics of drawing flowers, leaves and trees, while students gain inspiration from the gardens at the Estates. This class is more for students who want to learn traditional, realistic drawing techniques. The geomet..
Nature artist, Megan Kissinger, will teach Zen Drawing in the succulent garden. This class is geared toward beginning art students and teaches the basics of meditative drawing. Kissinger will demonstrate how to use "Pitt" ink pens to create simple, p..
Boondoggle are woven from sabal palm and legend has it that they ward off lightning strikes and bring good luck to the household. They were a traditional wedding present, and they are just plain beautiful. In this class with popular artist Megan K..
We will start this program with a 40 minute classroom presentation to learn about the concept of plant conditioning and how to take advantage of the plants and foliage available in your backyard to make a professional looking arrangement. Then, we ..
With the arrival of Spring, it’s time to think caladiums. They have a place in every garden and if you’re not growing them, you’re missing out on a Florida classic. Though not native to Florida, 99% of the world’s supply of these gorgeous..
No other plant says "Florida!" more than our famous palm trees. Choosing a palm tree is a major investment, and with over 2000 species of palms to choose from, this class will provide the knowledge to make an informed choice that is perfect for y..
Join us for a fun, hands-on holiday class where participants will create a themed terrarium in a beautiful quality glass vessel to keep as a centerpiece or use as a unique gift. Class will be held in a covered outdoor classroom setting, weather perm..
This is a detailed class on planting, care and selection of caladiums for Southwest Florida gardens. Topics covered will include how to choose and enhance the bulbs to create dense plants, and which varieties to select for different garden situations..
Many people don't know that palms are actually not trees. This program will cover what they are and some of the 2000 different species. At the Estates, there are close to 100 varieties growing around the site, and new species are added every season. ..
This program is one of the most popular and includes materials for participants to make and take their creation. Understanding how plants are conditioned is key to success when working with live plants, as well as how to care for the arrangement. Thi..
NOVEMBER 13, 2021 NAPLES **SOLD OUT** Naples Botanical Gardens, lunch and shopping at Tin City with a 2-hour narrated sightseeing and Eco Boat Tour from Tin City marina and Pure Florida. More details to follow. All tours are subject t..
This is a great tour to learn about the history of the Everglades. Guests will learn about Florida’s first big-game hunters and the sharks that once swam in the waters that covered Southwest Florida. Guests will also get to see the ancient tools ..
Welcome VIPs! If you have travelled with us before, you know how great our VIP tours are. If you haven’t experienced a VIP tour yet, consider joining us this year. Touring with us is fun, educational, and a great way to meet new people. We are exci..
LARGO Historic Heritage Village, early dinner on the waterfront and tour of the Florida Botanical Gardens holiday lights. More details to follow. All tours are subject to change and are based on availability. Spaces are limited. Pre-paid, advance..
Don't miss our annual Orchid Sale and Symposium! Horticulturists, orchid growers and representatives from the Southwest Florida Orchid Society will give presentations on growing and caring for orchids. Several orchid growers will have orchids availab..
Campers will explore our 20 acre site, learning biology, ecology and more in a fun, natural setting during this one day camp.
Click here to register.
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Budding engineers won’t want to miss this popular week-long camp!
Click here to register.
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In this electrifying one day camp, electrical concepts will be explored in a fun and educational setting.
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Campers will imagine, illustrate, and animate during this fast-paced one day camp!
Click here to register.
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Following in the footsteps of Edison and Ford, campers will unlock their inner inventor and designer during this four day camp!
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Campers will learn through experimentation during this creative four day camp!
Click here to register.
..For children who enjoy computers and coding, this popular three day camp is sure to be a hit! Click here to register...
Campers will learn the FUNdamentals of physics in this entertaining and educational one day camp! Click here to register...
Mina Edison was a gracious hostess and concerned with the well being of children and the community. Following in her tradition, this two-hour class will teach etiquette and social skills. Students will gather at the Edison Caretaker’s House for a l..
Our summer plant sale will feature rare and exotic plants and trees, butterfly host and nectar plants, orchids, fruit trees, herbs, Florida natives and more! Free event admission and parking (does not include estate or museum tours) [caption ..
Join us as science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily! The space race is on! In this session, campers will learn about our solar system and all the unique elements that ..
Join us as science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily! In this session, campers fuse their imagination with science and design as they expand their tool belt of creative..
Join us as science and history come alive in the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily! In this session, campers fuse their imagination with science and design as they expand their tool belt of crea..
Join us science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.! In this session, students will learn about robots of all different sizes in this high-tech camp including a functional LEGO..
Join us science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily! In this session, campers will create, design, and direct their own film on the iconic Edison and Ford Winter Estates ..
Join us as science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates! In this session, campers will tackle daily engineering design challenges while exploring simple machines and physics. Learn the important step..
Join us as science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily! In this session, explore the world of code and computer science, coding Minecraft on the Raspberry Pi, making vide..
Join us as science and history come alive in the "living laboratory" of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily! In this session, campers will participate in fast-paced chemistry experiments utilizing kitchen items such as flou..
Join us for an evening of films under the stars! In partnership with the Fort Myers Film Festival, several films will be shown on the Henry Ford estate lawn along the Caloosahatchee River. Refreshments will be available for purchase. The selection..
Students from local schools will participate in the 13th Annual Art in the Gardens! This year, each class from more than a dozen schools will create art pieces using wooden fish (approximately 48"X 18"). The students may paint or decorate the fish..
Museum Musings is an ongoing biweekly program that takes place on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and provides in-depth information on a specific topic pertaining to our site. Masks are required April 14: In this presentation, Site Historian, Phil Chase wi..
Visitors are invited to stroll the botanical gardens after regular hours for a special evening of music, refreshments and a sunset view over the Caloosahatchee River. Guests may also walk onto the porches of Thomas Edison's and Henry Ford's winter..
Join Marie for a inspirational day at the estates! In this workshop, you will learn techniques to create your own one of a kind 14" by 72" silk scarf. No experience is required and all materials and inspiration are supplied. Members: $90, Non-m..
Museum Musings is an ongoing biweekly program that takes place on Wednesday at 11 a.m. and provides in-depth information on a specific topic pertaining to our site. Masks are required. March 17 (Canceled): In this presentation, join Curatorial Reg..
Come learn about the history of spring training in Fort Myers with Program Manager, Holly Shaffer. This discussion will focus on some of the teams that hosted spring training games in Fort Myers, including the Philadelphia Athletics (the first team t..
Come learn about the history of spring training in Fort Myers with Program Manager, Holly Shaffer! This discussion will focus on some of the different teams that hosted spring training games in Fort Myers, including the Philadelphia Athletics (the fi..
Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host a day of vintage "base ball" on Sunday, March 21 at historic Terry Park , which has been the spring training home to numerous hall-of-famers and championship teams dating back to the 1925 Philadelphia Athletic..
Museum Musings is an ongoing series, briefly covering topics from Mina Edison to Ford cars. Upcoming programs include: February 11 – Join us outside near the Banyan tree for a special Museum Musings program focused on Edison’s famous birthda..
You may know that Mina Edison and Clara Ford grew roses at their year-round residences, but did you know that you can have a beautiful rose garden right here in Southwest Florida? In this class, you will learn all the techniques required for a suc..
This year, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is celebrating Thomas Edison's 174th birthday virtually! The virtual birthday party will start on Facebook at 10 a.m. Additional videos will be launched throughout the day. Friends will be able to watch the v..
Join impressionist painter Marie C Dyer for a landscape painting workshop. Inspired by the lush grounds of the Edison Ford Winter Estates, you will create a unique landscape painting. All experience levels are welcome! Supplies are included. Membe..
Join Marie for a inspirational day at the estates! In this workshop, you will learn techniques to create your own one of a kind 14" by 72" silk scarf. No experience is required and all materials and inspiration are supplied. Capacity is limited-- ..
Join us for a tour of the Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Garden. This 30-acre wonder and preserved native habitat can be seen on expansive boardwalks surrounded with rare plants and inserted with world class sculptures. Next, we will travel..
December 24, open 9am to 9pm December 25, CLOSED December 26 - January 3, open 9am to 9pm Regular hours (9am - 4:30pm) resume beginning on January 4 The homes and gardens a..
Join Marie for a inspirational day at the estates.! In this workshop, you will learn techniques to create your own one of a kind 14" by 72" silk scarf. No experience is required and all materials and inspiration are supplied. Capacity is limited--..
On Friday, November 27, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 45th Holiday Nights celebration with the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event will offer visitors an impressive light..
This program is one of the most popular and includes materials for participants to make and take their creation. Understanding how plants are conditioned is key to success when working with live plants, as well as how to care for the arrangement. Thi..
Many people don’t know that palms are actually not trees. This program will cover what they are and some of the 2000 different species. At the Estates, there are close to 100 varieties growing around the site, and new species are added every season..
The Moonlight Garden at Edison and Ford Winter Estates would not exist today if it weren’t for the vision of Mina Edison, a well-travelled and educated horticulturist in her own right. This class will cover the garden design by Ellen Bidd..
November 11 Each year, Edison and Ford Winter Estates pays tribute to veterans. This year, veterans will be treated to a five-piece brass band performance at the Banyan tree, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. It’s our way of saying “thank you” to..
Dig out your tie-dyed shirts and bell bottoms and travel back in time with Edison Ford as we celebrate the 51st anniversary of Woodstock. Peace of Woodstock pays tribute to the famous three-day festival that was held in upstate New York in 1969. T..
Growing roses in Florida is challenging and rewarding. This class will walk participants through each step to becoming a successful rose grower. Correct pruning techniques will be discussed to awaken roses from their Florida summer dormancy. An in-cl..
Campers will engage their inner “mad scientist” in a series of engaging chemistry experiments and activities! Masks are required. Click for online registration...
In one of our most popular camps, concepts of engineering, DIY design, coding, and basic robotics will be explored in a fun, interactive atmosphere! Masks are required. Click for online registration. ..
Students will tackle creative challenges and learn the art of animation in this exciting three day camp! Click for online registration or contact lcriswell@edisonfordwinterestates.org for information...
Challenge your mind and foster collaboration with our popular ongoing homeschool series! Join us and explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Our Wild Wizards will challenge your mind and foster collaboration in t..
NEW! Complete “Camp in a Box” experiments and activities from home! Supplies and support from staff will be provided. Students will learn about refraction and the science of light. Click for online registration or contact LCriswell@EdisonFo..
NEW! Complete “Camp in a Box” experiments and activities from home! Supplies and support from staff will be provided. Students will complete hands-on activities related to biology and plant life. Click for online registration...
On July 24, from 10 a.m. to noon, Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) will participate in the North American Butterfly Association's (NABA) 45th annual butterfly count. Results of the count help researchers monitor butterfly population trends ..
Almost ABBA is the longest-running North American tribute to the Swedish band ABBA. The event takes place at the Ford lawn along the Caloosahatchee, where guests can feel a refreshing river breeze and watch a spectacular sunset. Bring your favorit..
Please note: This event has been cancelled. This presentation will offer stories and information that will help you understand a vintage base ball match. Ellie has been the manager, also known as “Boss Lady,” of The Chicago Salmon since 1996. ..
Please note that this event has been cancelled. Ellie Carlson of ElliePresents will give a presentation on women's history entitled "Hindsight is 2020." The presentation is included with general admission to Edison Ford. Women’s History Month ..
March 3, 10 a.m., South Florida Water Management Lecture Hall, 2301 McGregor Blvd. Jeremy Fogg, art conservator and owner of Anthony Moore Painting Conservation in York, Maine, will present “Fake or Fraud: How can you tell if an oil painting is ..
Join art conservator Jeremy Fogg as he explains the process of conserving an oil painting from the Edison Ford collection. Learn more about select works from the collection which are not yet on public view as they are in need of conservation work. ..
Please note that this tour has been cancelled.
Enjoy the best Edison Ford has to offer in a small group setting, including visiting areas typically closed to the public! Subject-area experts illuminate the site like never befo..
Leap day only comes once every four years, and we're celebrating with a unique event! The evening will include a complimentary welcome cocktail, light hors d'oeuvres, evening tours of the Moonlight Garden, sunset over the Caloosahatchee River, live m..
Holiday Schedule: Tuesday, December 31 - Wednesday January 1 - Open 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Thursday, January 2 - Friday January 3 - Open 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. (final nights of our annual Holiday Nights event) We will resume our regular sch..
Spend the day overlooking the water in the river pavilion while painting a beautiful landscape using acrylic paint! Cost per class: members $90, future members $100. Supplies are included. Click here to register. Advance registration is encoura..
Don't miss this chance to hear fifth-generation Floridian Woody Hanson speak about the relationship between the Seminole, Thomas Edison, and Fort Myers. Click here to register for this free event! ..
Don’t miss a truly one-of-a-kind experience for ages 6 and up! This fun and challenging adventure is designed to help climbers learn about themselves, others and the environment. Training and equipment provided by Pathfinder Outdoor Education. C..
Explore the gardens of Edison Ford during this one-of-a-kind, one-day family event! • Win prizes in a garden scavenger hunt • Create unique botanical art • Explore kid-friendly garden vendors • Jump into environmental education ac..
Q: What do television, popsicles, and water skis have in common? A: They were all invented by kids! Celebrate National Kid Inventors' Day with a unique evening of hands-on science activities for the whole family in the Edison and Ford Winter Esta..
Join us for the opening reception of a new art show in the historic Edison Caretakers House. Ehren Gerhard, Gallery Director at the Alliance for the Arts, is the guest judge and will award prizes for the winning artwork. Visitors can also vote in the..
Business membership with Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers unique benefits designed for your employees, clients, and executives As a business member, your organization becomes part of a network that is continuing the legacy of Thomas Edison and H..
Note: This event is sold out. Join Mrs. Edison and Mrs. Ford for a special Holiday Tea in the Edison Caretaker's House. Mina and Clara will talk about their favorite holiday traditions and tea, lemonade and cookies will be served. After the tea, v..
Show your Mustang at the most beautiful location in Lee County, riverside on the Henry Ford Winter Estate lawn. Edison Ford, is excited to invite you to be a part of the Edison Ford Annual Ford Mustang Exhibition. Registration packets and one boxed l..
October 28 is National First Responders Day. Edison Ford is proud to support our police officers, sheriff's deputies, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs and 911 operators by offering free admission for the weekend. All active and retired first respond..
November 8, 6 p.m. Join Edison Ford, in partnership with Florida SouthWestern (FSW) State College, in welcoming the 38th annual Black Maria Film Festival. Films will be screened after sunset on the historic Ford lawn and FSW students will facilit..
Event will be held at Barnes and Noble at 13751 S Tamiami Trail in Fort Myers Join Chief Curator, Brent Newman, and Chief Operating Officer, Mike Cosden, for a book signing this Saturday at Barnes and Noble! Hear fascinating stories about two i..
Please note that this class is full. Don't miss this exciting and popular class in which participants will learn to create their own one-of-a-kind garden wall pot! In part one of the class, participants will create a mold using recycled plastic..
A variety of techniques will inspire painters of all levels to create their own one-of-a kind scarf. The scarves can be worn or displayed as art! Participants may book a single date or return for multiple sessions. Price: Members $95, non-members ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 14, 2019) – In celebration of National Drive Electric Week, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting a free electric car show on September 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Owners of electric vehicles will be on hand to answer q..
August 23rd, 11 AM Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience! Children and anyone with a curiosity about how sound is transmitted will enjoy this unique presentation. Visiting Italian phonograph expert and author, John Kurdyla, will conduct a pre..
Note: This program was formerly known as “Wednesday School.” It is not affiliated with “Tuesday School” programming by Camp HSR. Join us for a brand new homeschool offering: a series of day-long camps designed to expose students in grade..
Come celebrate Henry Ford’s birthday with us on July 30! The day will start off with a free presentation about Ford at 11:30 a.m. on the museum porch. Cookies and lemonade will be served. After the presentation, visitors have the option of taking a..
Did you know that Independence Day was Thomas Edison’s favorite holiday? According to historical documents, Edison woke up early each Independence Day to spend time with his children and set off a giant firecracker in his yard. The children dressed..
To celebrate Father’s Day on June 16, dads are invited to visit Edison Ford for free! This is a great way for visitors to enjoy the day with their fathers. Free admission includes a self-guided audio tour of the winter estate homes, museum, laborat..
The public is invited to view the Mango and Shaving Brush wood slabs on Tuesday, May 7 between 2-4 p.m. at 2145 Larchmont Ave. Both trees offer very unique patterns and rich colors. The Mango is believed to be at least 90 years old, and the Shavin..
To honor the men and women who have served our country, we are offering free admission to United States veterans on Memorial Day, May 27. Free admission includes a self-guided audio tour of the historic homes, gardens, laboratory and museum. Veter..
Bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy Disney's Moana on the lawn on the historic Ford property. This FREE event is sponsored by Crawford Landscaping and is part of the American Public Gardens Association's National Public Garden Week! Ma Petite ..
"Grow Fort Myers" is a part of National Public Gardens Week at Edison Ford. Help us celebrate all week long with special events: May 15 and 17, 2019 at 10:30am: $10 discount on Garden Tours May 17, 2019 at 7:30pm: Free Family Movie Night in t..
Join us to celebrate the opening of our annual community art installation, Art in the Gardens! Refreshments will be provided. Art in the Gardens features creative three-dimensional artwork made largely from recycled materials by local studen..
Arbor Day was started by J. Sterling Morton in Nebraska as a way to get more trees planted in the Midwest prairie states. At Edison Ford, trees are planted throughout the year; although, on Arbor Day, we celebrate with students from local schools, ga..
The Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council will host a standard flower show on Friday, March 1 from 1-4 p.m., and Saturday March 2 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The theme of the Flower Show is "It's All About Water." Edison Ford collaborate with the Fort M..
Please note: This event has been canceled. Edison Ford will host a day of Vintage Base Ball at Terry Park with three vintage teams playing for top honors in a mini tournament exhibition featuring the Vintage Base Ball Club of Central Florida, Mudv..
Please note: This event has been canceled. Mary Florence Potts was an inventress at the age of 19 in 1871. She spent the rest of her life perfecting and promoting her “Boon to Women!” She visits the modern world fresh from her appearance at th..
Tim Fabrizio has been restoring, researching and writing about antique phonographs for more than 48 years. He is an artisan and a scholar and has consulted at the Library of Congress, the George Eastman House Museum, the Edison and Ford Winter..
Renowned artist Marie Dyer will be on-site painting in the gardens every Monday through March. Stop in to observe her techniques as she paints landscape and botanical items at Edison Ford. No registration required; included with admission...
Join award-winning nature artist, Megan Kissinger, to learn the basics of drawing with informal drawing techniques! Drawing and Making Valentine Mandala Cards February 8, 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. In this class, Megan teaches how a mandala is formatte..
Join us as science and history come alive in the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates! Camps are offered for ages 6-8 and 9-12 from 9am – 4pm daily: JUNE 3 – JUNE 14, 2019 • FANTASTIC FILM MAKERS Future directors ..
Creativity and design are united in this unique three-day camp, combining computer science, 3-D design, and art. To register or learn more, click here! ..
Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!..
This event has been canceled. ..
We are celebrating a brand-new exhibit in the Edison Ford museum featuring the Edisons and Fords in their Florida winter homes. Light hors d'oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available (each attendee receives a coupon for one drink). ..
Don’t miss the last speaker in the Florida Humanities Council Speakers Series presenting on “Florida’s Female Pioneers”. Award-winning author and lecturer, Dr. Peggy Macdonald, highlights some of the women who have shaped the unique culture a..
Have you attended one of the Florida Humanities Council Speaker Series? Did you hear acclaimed author Dr. Roger Smith discuss “The Shadier Side of East and West Florida” during the American revolution on January 24? If you missed it, mark..
Ask the Curator talks take place every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., with a different topic each week. Upcoming presentations include: November 28 – Want to Learn How to Start a Model T? Automotive Curator James Moss demonstrates how to start and ..
Join us for this Members’ Holiday Nights Premier event, with a special performance by the Fort Myers Mastersingers! Holiday Nights guided tours will be provided to groups at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. (limited to first 35), and we’ll even have a visit..
Members, grab your partner and get ready for some good-old foot-stompin' in our beautiful River Pavilion. This year's theme is "A Country Hoe-Down" and will feature a 50/50 raffle, and live music from The Suwannee Swing Saloon for your listening and ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 4, 2024) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) will hold a class on scented plants, "The Fragrant Garden," on Tuesday, April 23 at 1:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 27 at 10 a.m. The class will cover many aromatic plants that ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 21, 2024) -- In celebration of Clara Ford's birthday, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold a garden tea party on April 11, from 2-4 p.m. History character, "Clara Ford," will talk about the ongoing restoration of her summ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 11, 2024) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold a class on Florida native plants, "The Power of Natives in Your Landscape" on Tuesday, March 19 at 1:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 23 at 10 a.m. Anyone wanting to learn abou..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 8, 2024) -- On March 17, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Vintage "Base Ball" Tournament at historic Terry Park in Fort Myers. The teams will play two consecutive games in a small tournament format. The ga..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 7, 2024) -- On April 13, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold it's annual "Grow Fort Myers" Plant Sale and Workshops event. This community-oriented program provides an opportunity for summer gardeners to learn new ways ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 29, 2024) -- On Friday, March 29, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Caribbean Chillers, a Jimmy Buffett Caribbean Chillers, a Jimmy Buffett trib..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 26, 2024) -- On March 3 from noon to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Art in Bloom floral art show in partnership with the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council. This unique one-day art show features..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 21, 2024) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates’ First LEGO League teams, "Assembly Required" and "Batteries The Edison and Ford Winter Estates' robotics ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 15, 2024) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering several summer camp options for children in grades K-5. Students are separated into groups according to grade level (K-2 and 3-5). The camps are educational and focu..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 12, 2024) -- To celebrate spring training and Thomas Edison's love of baseball, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is holding a special event to showcase a new exhibit that highlights some baseball legends who once played at T..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 7, 2024) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a class on how to select and care for palms. Other gardening classes are offered throughout the season. The “Palms in Your Landscape” class will be offered on Tues..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 7, 2024) -- On February 18, at 10 a.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will offer a class on floral fruit carving, where participants will learn how to sculpt a watermelon into a beautiful floral work of art. This is the f..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 30, 2024) -- On Friday, February 23, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host a roaring 20s jazz concert, featuring Liz "Honey" Heath and a five-piece band. The concert will take place on the historic Ford lawn along ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 23, 2024) -- On February 7 at 10 a.m., the public is invited to celebrate Thomas Edison's 177th birthday at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The annual tradition continues with students from the Edison Park Creative and Expr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 22, 2024) – On February 10 and 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Spring Garden Festival. More than 50 garden vendors from around the state will have exotic and native plant..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 16, 2024) -- On Friday, January 26, the Collaboration Band will perform Motown hits on the historic Ford lawn along the Caloosahatchee River at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This is the first Rhythm on the River con..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 16, 2024) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a plein air acrylic landscape painting class Class offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates teaches h..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 4, 2024) -- For many residents in Southwest Florida, strolling the grounds at Edison and Ford Winter Estates between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day to see the Holiday Nights light show is a tradition. Some visitors come fr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 11, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering gardening classes for residents who are new to Florida or anyone who wants to learn how to have a successful garden in Southwest Florida. Upcoming classes: Intr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 27, 2023) – Visitors are invited to decorate Christmas cookies at Edison and Ford Families enjoy the festive holiday lights at the Edison and Ford Winter E..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 21, 2023) – The Fort Myers Track Club is partnering with Edison and Ford Winter Estates to host the 44th Annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot at the Estates on Thanksgiving morning at 7:30 a.m. The 5K course and Tot Trot..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 3, 2023) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Fort Myers Woman's Community Club for its annual wreath auction, which will be held on November 30, from 6-9 p.m. Dozens of handmade holiday wreaths will be..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 3, 2023) -- On Saturday, December 2 ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 26, 2023) – On November 18 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Autumn Garden Festival. More than 50 garden vendors from around the state will have exotic and native plants..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 24, 2023) -- On Friday, November 24 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 48th annual Holiday Nights celebration with a tree lighting ceremony. Guests will have an opportunity to participate in the co..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 18, 2023) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with Grazing Haus to offer visitors the opportunity to sample Guests enjoy beverages and a sunset a..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 17, 2023) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers several private VIP Tours to other tourist destinations throughout the year. The tours are open to both Edison Ford members and the general public. Transportation is inclu..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 28, 2023) -- On October 22, from 10-11:30 a.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will offer a Fall Floral Arranging Participants attend a floral arranging wo..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 25, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers school break camps for students in kindergarten through fifth Students learn about science, technology, ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 20, 2023) -- On October, 28, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will celebrate fall with it's second annual Fall Festival. This family-friendly event will include 40 craft vendors, food trucks, music, and several fun activit..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 12, 2023) -- On October 14 and 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Orchid Sale and Symposium. The event will take place outdoors, under the oak trees and surrounding areas. Mul..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 16, 2023) -- On October 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual "Airing of the Quilts blow in the breeze at the annual ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 6, 2023) -- On August 5, fr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 5, 2023) -- On July 30, John Gidding, an architectural designer, tv host, and author will give a special presentation about his newly published book, At Home with Nature, a Guide to Sustainable, Natural Landscaping at the Edis..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 27, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates has received a grant through Keep Lee County Beautiful (KLCB) to replace shrubs and trees along the historic Ford property line that were lost due to Hurricane Ian's winds and stor..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 21, 2023) -- On July 6, at 10 a.m., author, Alexandra Rimer will talk about her newly published book, "Seduced by the Light," at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The presentation is free and open to the public, and will be h..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 25, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with floral designer Anita Singh to offer a kid's floral design workshop. The class will be offered on June 10 and July 8 at 10 a.m. The workshop is for children ages si..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 24, 2023) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates' (EFWE) FIRST LEGO League robotics team, "Assembly Required" competed in the FIRST LEGO League World Robotics Championship in Houston, Texas in April. At the event, more than ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 8, 2023) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates' (EFWE) FIRST LEGO League robotics teams, "Assembly Required" and The Edison and Ford Winter Estates robotics te..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 4, 2023) -- On April 8 at 10 a.m., the Fort Myers Track Club board members will present a $16,000 check to Mike Participants relax at the finish line at Edison ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 17, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many opportunities throughout the year for residents and guests to Guests learn how to create floral arrangem..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 15, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering several summer camp options for students in grades K-5. Campers are separated into groups according to grade level (K-2 and 3-5). The camps are fun, educational, and un..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 14, 2023) -- On April 7 and 8, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is holding it's annual "Grow Fort Myers" Plant Sale and Workshops event, combined with the Orchid Symposium that was cancelled last fall. Plant Sale Only on Fr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 2, 2023) -- On March 31, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the acoustic ensemble, Appalachian Road Show, for the final Rhythm on the River concert of the season. The group performs bluegrass and folk music, as well as..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 2, 2023) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates' FIRST LEGO League robotics team, "Assembly Required," competed in the West Florida Regional Championship on February 18 in Tampa and won the Top Robot Performance Award and th..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 10, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering new gardening classes for residents and guests to learn how to have successful gardens in Florida. Classes are offered each year during the spring months and cover a ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 8, 2023) -- On Friday, February 17, Neil Zirconia, a Neil Diamond tribute entertainer will perform at the next Edison and Ford Winter Estates' Rhythm on the River celebration. Zirconia, dubbed the ultimate "Faux Di..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 2, 2023) -- On March 26, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Vintage "Base Ball" Tournament at historic Terry Park in Fort Myers. The teams will play several consecutive games throughout the day in a small..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 19, 2023) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with Captiva Spirits to offer guests a special Valentine's Day Cocktail Chemistry Class. Visitors will learn how to make cocktails while enjoying appetizers, chocola..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 18, 2023) -- On February 10 at 10 a.m., the public is invited to celebrate Thomas Edison's 176th birthday at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The annual tradition continues with students from the Edison Park Creative an..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 4, 2023) – On February 11 and 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Spring Garden Festival. More than 60 garden vendors from around the state will have exotic and native plants ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 3, 2023) -- On February 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show. Each year, classic car owners exhibit their cars on the Ford estate lawn as a tribute to Henry Ford..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 28, 2022) -- On January 27, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Frank Sinatra tribute, Michael Dutra and the Strictly Sinatra band. This will be the first Rhythm on the River concert of 2023. The event will take pl..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 14, 2022) -- On February 4 2023 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show. Each year, classic car owners exhibit their cars on the Ford estate lawn as a tribute to Hen..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 8, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many opportunities throughout the year for residents and guests to learn painting techniques, create floral arrangements or make other pieces of artwork. Classes are taught..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 7, 2022) -- On December 11, from 4-9 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting a Holiday Market with craft vendors and holiday merchants. Booths will be situated between the Banyan tree and the Banyan Cafe. [capti..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 5, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many opportunities throughout the year for residents and guests to learn about gardening in Florida. Garden Talks are offered once a month all year long (most months) and c..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 30, 2022) – Visitors are invited to decorate Christmas cookies at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This new event provides families with a chance to decorate cookies and see the holiday lights all in one night. Cookie deco..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 30, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with The Wine Room and the Banyan Café to offer visitors the opportunity to sample dessert and sparkling wine at the historic site. The event will take place on F..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 29, 2022) -- On December 3 and 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting the annual Bromeliad sale in partnership with the Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society. Bromeliad growers will have tents un..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 21, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates has named Cole Peacock as its new board of trustees chairman, commencing in the new fiscal year, which started October 1. In this role, Peacock will maintain an active membership,..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 15, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Fort Myers Woman's Community Club for its annual wreath auction, which will be held on December 2, from 6-9 p.m. Dozens of handmade, unique holiday wreaths..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 8, 2022) -- On Friday, November 25 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 47th annual Holiday Nights celebration with a tree lighting ceremony. Guests will have an opportunity to participate in the co..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 8, 2022) -- The Appalachian Road Show bluegrass concert that was scheduled for November 11 at Edison and Ford Winter Estates is being postponed due to forecasted inclement weather conditions. The concert has been reschedu..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 4, 2022) – On November 19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Garden Festival. More than 40 garden vendors from around the state will have exotic and native plants and ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 25, 2022) -- On November 11, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the acoustic ensemble, Appalachian Road Show, for the first Rhythm on the River concert of the season. The group performs bluegrass and folk music, as w..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 20, 2022) – On October 29, only a month after the category four Hurricane Ian ripped through Fort Myers, Children enjoy climbing the historic Banyan tree at ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 20, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with The Wine Room and Grazing Haus to offer visitors the opportunity to sample wine and cheese at the historic site. The event will take place on Friday, November 1..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 17, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is re-opening the east side of the site, which includes the Museum, Laboratory, Garden Shoppe and Museum Store this Saturday, October 22 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Step Into Hist..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 13, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is re-opening ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 7, 2022) -- Employees at Edison and Ford Winter Estates are clearing debris from the 20-acre site, removing downed trees, and assessing any possible damage. The historic homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford have weathered a..
We are happy to report that the historic homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, as well as other buildings at the Estates have weathered another hurricane and are in great condition. The iconic Banyan and Mysore Fig trees also survived the storm. ..
The historic property of Edison and Ford Winter Estates is temporarily closed due to Hurricane Ian. Once the site is able to open, the public will be notified. The Orchid Sale and Symposium that was scheduled for October 1 and 2 is being postponed..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 26, 2022) -- The historic property of Edison and Ford Winter Estates is preparing for possible hurricane conditions. The site will be closed to the public on Tuesday, September 27 and [caption id="attachment_8157" al..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 23, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many opportunities throughout the year for residents and guests to learn painting techniques, create floral arrangements or other pieces of artwork. Classes are taught by..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 14, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers several private VIP Tours to other tourist destinations throughout the year. The tours are open to both Edison Ford members and the general public. Transportation is inc..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 9, 2022) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers educational programs for grade school children throughout the year. Day camps are held when Lee County schools are closed and summer camp is held during the summer m..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 8, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its first Fall Festival on October 29 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This family-friendly event will include craft vendors, food trucks, music and several fun activities for c..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 7, 2022) -- On October 1 and 2, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Orchid Sale and Symposium. The event will take place outdoors, under the oak trees and surrounding areas. Multip..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 18, 2022) -- On November 11, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the acoustic ensemble, Appalachian Road Show Performing at Edison and Ford Winter Es..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 3, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with The Wine Room and Grazing Haus to offer visitors the opportunity to sample wine and cheese at the historic site. The event will take place on Friday, October 7, f..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 11, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates recently received a donated rain barrel and a butterfly sign from the Periwinkle Garden Club. The rain barrel was painted by artist Marie Dyer, who teaches painting classes at the Es..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 5, 2022) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates will honor Henry Ford, the automobile icon, on his 159th birthday this July 30. Historian-led guided tours and self-guided tours will be available throughout the day. Visitors can ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 27, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates will be open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Independence Day, Thomas Edison's favorite holiday. Visitors may take guided tours or meander at their own pace on a self-guided tour, using an..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 1, 2022) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates received a $10,000 donation from a member to restore the historic lily pond. The Edisons added the pond in 1929 as a means to collect excess water from the swimming pool. It sit..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 24, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates will be open regular hours on Memorial ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 12, 2022) -- A new scavenger hunt for families is available at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The main character in the game is Jerry the Pelican who is hidden in multiple places around the site. The goal of the scavenger hun..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 10, 2022) -- At the "Grow Fort Myers" event on April 9, Robert Riefer with the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) presented several rare Florida native orchids to Mike Flanders, the Edison..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 12, 2022) -- To celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday, May 8, a pop-up flower shop..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 6, 2022) -- The Edison an..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 17, 2022) -- On April 22 at 7:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the opening event for the annual Fort Myers Film Festival. Three films will be shown on the Henry Ford estate lawn, along the Caloosahatchee Riv..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 16, 2022) -- On Saturday, April 9, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting the annual "Grow Fort Myers" plant sale and gardening workshops event. Plants will be available for sale in the Garden Shoppe, as well as from se..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 9, 2022) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) robotics team, "Assembly Required," a FIRST LEGO league division team competed against 31 other teams in the Regional Championship for the Southwest Florida region (there ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 24, 2022) -- On Friday, March 18, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Caribbean Chillers, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band. The band plays Buffett's top hits and crowd favorites for an authentic show. The concert i..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 18, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering several summer camps for students in grades K-5. Campers are separated into groups according to grade level (K-2 and 3-5). The camps are fun, educational, and unlike ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 10, 2022) -- On March 6 from noon to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Art in Bloom art show in partnership with the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council. This unique one-day art show features floral desi..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 31, 2022) -- On Friday, February 18, Neil Zirconia, a Neil Diamond tribute entertainer will perform at the next Edison and Ford Winter Estates' Rhythm on the River celebration. Zirconia, dubbed the ultimate "Faux Di..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 27, 2022) -- On February 22, 1:30-3:30 p.m. and February 26, 10 a.m. - noon, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will offer a class on Floral Arranging with Tropical Plants and Foliage. Taught by horticultural specialist, Karen..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 20, 2022) -- On February 11 at 10 a.m., the public is invited to celebrate Thomas Edison's 175th birthday at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The annual tradition continues with students from the Edison Park Creative and Ex..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 20, 2022) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery to offer couples a special Valentine's Day Cocktail Chemistry Class. Rum experts from Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery will teach the..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 14, 2022) – On February 12 and 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Winter Garden Festival. More than 50 garden vendors from around the state of Florida will have tropical and ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 12, 2022) -- On February 5..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 4, 2022) -- In the past couple of years, gardening has become even more popular while people spent time at home with their families. Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers several opportunities throughout the year for reside..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 17, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates partners with local artists to offer art classes to residents and tourists this season. Several different classes are available, including Silk Scarf Painting, Zen Drawing, and B..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 16, 2021) -- On January 28, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Frank Sinatra tribute, Michael Dutra and the Strictly Sinatra Band, as part of the Rhythm on the River concert series. The group performs many of Si..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 1, 2021) -- With the growing population of German snowbirds and tourists arriving on direct flights from Germany, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering guided tours in German, starting on December 8. These tours are ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 30, 2021) -- School break and day camps at Edison and Ford Winter E..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 8, 2021) -- On December 4 and 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society for its annual Bromeliad Show and Sale. The judged show will take place [ca..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 29, 2021) -- The staff at Edison and Ford Winter Estates carved pumpkins for a fun..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 28, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a Boon..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 19, 2021) -- On Friday, November 26 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the Visitors admire the decorated homes and gardens during Holida..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 15, 2021) – On November 20 and 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual fall Garden Festival. More than 40 garden vendors from around the state of Florida will have tropical and nat..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 13, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering free admission to United States veterans Families enjoy visiting Edison and Ford Winter Estates.[/c..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 7, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a silk scarf painting class on Saturday, Class offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates teaches how to..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 29, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering its popular Hypertufa pottery class Class offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates teaches how to m..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 24, 2021) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers several private VIP Tours to other tourist destinations throughout the year. On November 13, a tour to the Naples Botanical Gardens will be offered and is open to both Ed..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 8, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers school break camps for students aged six to 12 throughout the school year. These programs are designed to enhance children's education in STEAM (science technology, [c..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 25, 2021) -- On October 9 and 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold it's annual Orchid Sale and Symposium. Horticulturists, orchid growers and representatives from the Southwest Florida [cap..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 11, 2021) – On August 21, The Birds of Southwest Florida exhibit will open in the Caretaker's House at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The exhibit features multiple panels containing detailed illustrations from John James A..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 9, 2021) -- On October 29, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the acoustic ensemble, Appalachian Road Show Performing at Edison and Ford Winter Estates[..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 22, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates was selected as a recipient for a Viva Florida Landscape Demonstration Garden grant from the Florida Wildflower Foundation. The Estates received $1,000 and was one of 11 sites [ca..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 22, 2021) -- The People's Choice Award votes have been tallied for the "Beauty from Disaster" art William LaFreniere’s sculpture titled “Self Portrait” won..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 19, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates has joined Museums for All, a signature access program of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the Association of Children's Museums, to encourage people of..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 28, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates will be open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Independence Day, The historic homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford will be de..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 21, 2021) -- Each year, Edison and Ford Winter Estates prepares the site for possible hurricanes and other storms that may hit the area. At the beginning of hurricane season, storm shutters are placed on many of the buildings ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 18, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates received a donation of an Aspidistra (Cast Iron Plant) collection from a local gardener. The collection includes nearly 30 full-size and dwarf cultivars. This plant earned its common..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 21, 2021) -- On June 19, starting at 9 a.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold a special plant sale, open to the public. The sale will take place outdoors, in the Garden Shoppe and surrounding areas. Additional plant v..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 13, 2021) -- On May 14, at approximately 10 a.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will receive a donated antique Calliope vehicle. The 1914 Model T is installed with a working pipe organ. Upon arriving, the organ will be played..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 13, 2021) -- On May 14 at 7:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Fort Myers Film Festival. Four films will be shown on the Henry Ford estate lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River where guests will watch movies..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 6, 2021) -- On Saturday, April 24, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting the annual "Grow Guests attend a gardening workshop at Edison and Ford Winter Est..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 31, 2021) -- Touring the gardens on Easter is a tradition for many locals and snowbirds alike. Edison and Ford Winter Estates is open regular operating hours on Easter Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for guided and self-guided ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 29, 2021) -- On April 16, guitarist, Jeff Feldstein will perform an eclectic mix of crow..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 23, 2021) -- Due to generous donors and sponsorships, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering multiple summer camp scholarships this year. Captains for Clean Water, Entech, Fort Myers-Lee County Garden [caption id="att..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 16, 2021) -- On March 26, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Jimmy Buffett tribute Visitors enjoy an outdoor concert at Edison and Ford Winter Estate..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 15, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering school groups an opportunity to Mangoes hang from a tree near the Thomas Edison house at Edison and Ford..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 23, 2021) -- On March 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show. Each year, classic car owners and club members exhibit their cars on the Ford estate lawn as a..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 5, 2021) – On February 13 (9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) and 14 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Gardening enthusiasts enjoy shopping for plants at Edison and Ford Winter Estates..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 14, 2021) -- This year, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is celebrating Thomas Edison's 174th Students from the Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 5, 2021) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting artist Marie Dyer for a series of painting workshops, including two that will be offered via Zoom for a virtual experience. [caption id="attachment_6689" align="alignr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 10, 2020) -- The 45th Holiday Nights celebration is underway at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Several guest appearances have been scheduled for next week. Santa is coming to town on December 16 and will be in Edison's Stu..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 4, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers classes and camps for kids throughout the year. School break camp options are available for students aged six to 12 years, and preschool programs are available for children..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 24, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 45th Holiday Nights celebration with the annual tree lighting ceremony on November 27. Starting at 5 p.m., the American Sirens -- a female singing trio -- will ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 13, 2020) -- On December 5 and 6, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society for it's 2020 bromeliad sale. The event will take place outdoors, under the Ba..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 30, 2020) -- On November 9 at 4:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will celebrate the opening of its new retail store, the Edison Ford Shoppe, in the Edison Mall. The Greater Fort Myers Chamber will conduct a ribbon-c..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 21, 2020) -- On Friday, November 27 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 45th Holiday Nights celebration with the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event will offer visitors an impressive light show ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 20, 2020) -- Gardening continues to be a popular pastime and this year, as people are spending more time at home, many are realizing the therapeutic benefits. On November 10, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will resume its g..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 14, 2020) -- On October 30, Almost Abba, an Abba tribute band will perform at the next Edison and Ford Winter Estates' Rhythm on the River celebration. The concert is the first of the season and offers guests an opportun..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 13, 2020) – On November 21 and 22 from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual fall Garden Festival. More than 40 garden vendors from around the state of Florida will have tropical an..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 23, 2020) -- On October 10, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold it's annual Orchid Sale and Symposium. The sale will take place outdoors, in the Garden Shoppe and surrounding areas. Hortic..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 22, 2020) -- On October 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual "Airing of the Quilts" quilt show. Dozens of quilts from the Quilters' Guild will be on display, suspended from clo..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 16, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is inviting the public to visit after regular hours on October 2 and October 16 for "Autumn Nights at Edison Ford." From 6-9 p.m., guests will be able to stroll the grounds, li..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 15, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates will resume its popular Garden Talks at 10 a.m. on September 26. Debbie Hughes, Horticulture Director, will talk about how to select, care for and the many benefits of growing ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 17, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates and the Garden Shoppe will be open on Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors may meander at their own pace during a Self-Guided Tour, using the new narrated app and a site m..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 12, 2020) -- On September 12, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold a special plant sale, open to the public. The sale will take place outdoors, in the Garden Shoppe and surrounding areas. Addi..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 11, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a place for Lee County virtual students to study so parents are able to go to work. The new Study Hall program will provide a place for kids to attend their virtual cla..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 28, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is extending its Summer Camp for an additional three weeks with a brand new camp. The Invention and Innovation Camp will cover a [caption id="attachment_3996" align="alignright" w..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 27, 2020) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates will honor Henry Ford, the automobile icon, on his 157th birthday this July 30. Historian-led guided tours and self-guided tours will be available. Visitors can learn about the in..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 20, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) will be ope..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 16, 2020) -- On August 8, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold a special plant sale, open to the public. The sale will take place outdoors, in the Garden Shoppe and surrounding areas. The Shoppe..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 1, 2020) -- On July 6, Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) will celebrate Mina Edison's 155th birthday. The celebration will start at 11 a.m. with a presentation about Mina on the Museum West Porch. This large outdoor space ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 30, 2020) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates has five trees on the official Florida Champion Tree Register. The American Forests organization created the champion tree program in 1940 to recognize the largest known tree of ea..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 15, 2020) -- On July 1, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will ope..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 3, 2020) -- On June 13, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold it's first summer plant sale. The sale will take place outdoors, in the garden shoppe and surrounding areas. The shoppe is stocked with..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 22, 2020) -- On Friday, May 29, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will open the botanical gardens and the riverside of the property. This area features the historic winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, the guest home,..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 19, 2020) -- The Garden Shoppe at Edison and Ford Winter Estates will be open this Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Memorial Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for customers to purchase plants and gardening-related items. The Museum S..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 7, 2020) -- On May 15, the Garden Shoppe at E..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 24, 2020) -- On March 24, at 4:30 p.m. Edison and For..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 23, 2020) -- The botanical gardens of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates remain open and offer visitors a chance to stroll through the open-air park-like setting. For the safety of the visitors, the museum and Smithsonian Spa..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 22, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates remains open with reduced hours and extra precautionary measures implemented. Executive officers are communicating with city officials about how to operate the site within the guide..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 28, 2020) -- The Caribbean Chillers Concert scheduled for tonight (February 28) is sold out. No tickets will be available at the gate. The next Rhythm on the River concert on March 7 will feature Neil Zirconia, a Neil..
Please note: This event has been canceled. FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 27, 2020) -- On March 22, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Vintage "Base Ball" Tournament at historic Terry Park in Fort Myers. The games will be played in ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 24, 2020) -- On March 7, Neil Zirconia, a Neil Diamond tribute entertainer will perform at the next Edison and Ford Winter Estates' Rhythm on the River celebration. Zirconia, dubbed the ultimate "Faux Diamond," will ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 20, 2020) -- Due to local thunderstorms, the annual Antique Car Show Visitors walk through rows of antique Ford automobiles at the annual Edison and Ford Wi..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 20, 2020) -- On March 4, ..
Please note that this concert is sold out. FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 12, 2020) -- On February 28, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host Visitors attend a concert at Edison and ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 24, 2020) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) homeschool robotics team, "Assembly Required," placed among the top teams at the first LEGO league qualifier tournament and won an award for its robot mechanical desig..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 15, 2020) -- On February 29, from 6-9 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates wil..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 14, 2020) -- Health and wellness classes, including meditation and massage are being offered at Edison and Ford Participants relax during a Yomassage™..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 13, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many educational opportunities throughout the year for both Artist Marie Dyer teaches how to create a one-o..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 13, 2020) -- The public is invited to celebrate Thomas Edison's 173rd birthday on February 11, at 10 a.m. As part of the celebration, students from the Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School will sing, dance and pl..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 13, 2020) -- On January 17, children and their parents are i..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 10, 2020) -- On February 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show. Each year, classic car owners and club members exhibit more than 100 cars on the Ford estate l..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 8, 2020) – On February 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and February 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual winter Garden Festival. The festival is the largest of its kind in Southwest..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 2, 2020) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates recently hosted the annual Ford Legacy Summit. The site was selected as the meeting location for the leadership staff from more than a dozen prominent Ford legacy organizations aro..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 30, 2019) -- On January 28, at 6:30 p.m., fifth-generation Floridian, Woody Hanson, will speak about the relationship between the Seminole, Thomas Edison and Fort Myers at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Hanson is a de..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 23, 2019) -- To allow visitors more time to see the 44th Holiday Nights light show, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will continue with additional nights on January 2 and 3. The site will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on De..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 19, 2019) -- On January 11, children and parents are invited to Edison and Ford Winter Estates for the Kids' Garden Adventure. This new one-of-a-kind free family event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is sponsored by F..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 17, 2019) -- On January 31, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host Steve Farst for the first Rhythm on the River of the new year. Farst has been entertaining audiences on a national level for many years. He performs bot..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (Decembe..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 9, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with volunteers from the Cape Coral organization, Holiday 4 Heroes, to mail holiday postcards with old-fashioned images to soldiers stationed overseas. Children a..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 19, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter E..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 18, 2019) -- On November 22, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host "Peace of Woodstock," a Woodstock tribute band. The event celebrates Woodstock's 50th anniversary and will take place on the Ford lawn, along the Caloo..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 15, 2019) -- Gardening is becoming more popular every year and as the number of people moving to Florida continues to escalate, the demand for education on growing and caring for plants increases. To help newcomers and any..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 7, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering several school break camp options for students in grades first through sixth. The camps are fun, educational, and unlike other local opportunities. The next camp runs ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 1, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering free admission to United States veterans and one guest on Veterans Day, November 11. Free admission includes a self-guided audio tour of the historic homes, garde..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 1, 2019) – On November 8, at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) is hosting the annual Thomas Edison Black Maria Film Festival in partnership with Florida Southwestern State College. Several short documentaries..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 29, 2019) – On November 1 at 6 p.m., the public is invited to an exhibit opening in the inventions museum at Edison and The new Family, Friends & Fun E..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 23, 2019) – On November 4, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is launching a new app for use on the Audio Tour. The app contains commentary for both adults and children and also includes historic photos. With the app, staff wi..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 22, 2019) – In the northern states, most gardeners plant vegetables in the spring; however, in Southwest Florida, fall is the best time for planting popular edibles. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates Garden Shoppe just r..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 17, 2019) – On November 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and November 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual fall Garden Festival. More than 40 garden vendors from around the state..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 9, 2019) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates offers many pr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 9, 2019) -- On Friday, November 29 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the 44th Holiday Nights celebration with the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event will offer visitors an impressive light show w..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 30, 2019) -- On October 25, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the first Rhyth..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 25, 2019) – On October 12 and 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Southwest Florida Orchid Society for the inaugural Orchid Sale and Symposium. Experts will give free seminar..
**Please note: Quilt show has been rescheduled to October 26 due to inclement weather.** FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 24, 2019) -- On October 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual "Airing of the Quilts" q..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 5, 2019) – On October 4 at 6 p.m., the public is invited to an exhibit opening in the Edison Caretaker's House at Thomas Edison stands in his research lab..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 3, 2019) – Edison and Ford Winter Estates is extending the Free Kid Deal through September 8 to assist the many families staying in Fort Myers that evacuated from Hurricane Dorian’s path. One child 12 years old or you..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 14, 2019) – In celebration of National Drive Electric Week, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is hosting a free electric car show on September 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Owners of electric vehicles will be on hand to answer q..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 25, 2019) -- For the third year in a r..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 24, 2019) -- In celebration of National Honey Bee Day..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 19, 2019) -- On July 26 and August 2 at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, international phonograph expert and author, John Kurdyla, will record and play back the voices of visitors, utilizing phonograph technology created by Tho..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 9, 2019) -- Health and wellness classes, such as yoga, meditation and massage are being offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. On July 20, "Full Moon Meditation Alchemy of the Senses" will be held at 1 p.m. Then, Yomassag..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 8, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) was selected as one of 20 gardens to be represented in the United States Botanic Gardens' "Gardens Across America" exhibit in Washington, D.C. The display includes a model of ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 25, 2019) – To honor Henry Ford, the automobile icon, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will celebrate his 156th birthday on July 30. The day will start off with a free presentation about Ford at 11:30 a.m. on the muse..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 11, 2019) -- To celebrate Father's Day on June 16, dads are invited to visit Edison and Ford Winter Estates for free. This is a great way for families to enjoy the day with their fathers or spouses. Free admission inclu..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 21, 2019) – This summer, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a special deal for families. From June 1 through September 2, visitors may bring a child, 12 years old or younger, for free. One child will be admitted..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 14, 2019) -- On June 10, from 10 a.m. to noon, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will participate in the North American Butterfly Association's (NABA) 44th annual butterfly count. Results of the count help researchers monitor..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 6, 2019) -- To celebrate Mother’s Day on May 12, moms are invited to visit Edison and Ford Winter Estates for free. This is a great way for families to enjoy the day with their mothers or spouses. Free admission includ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 1, 2019) -- In partnership with the American Public Gardens Association (APGA), Edison and Ford Winter Estates is celebrating National Public Gardens Week, May 13-19. Special discounts and programs will be held throughout the..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 24, 2019) -- To honor the men and women who have served our country, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will offer free admission to United States veterans on Memorial Day, May 27. Free admission includes a self-guided audio to..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 19, 2019) -- On April 26 at 10 a.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Arbor Day celebration. As part of the tradition, students from Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School will help plant trees ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 11, 2019) -- Wood slabs from Mango and Shaving Brush trees are available for purchase at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. With very unique patterns and rich colors, the wood of both trees is valuable to furniture makers and wo..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 9, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering several summer camp options for students 6 to 8 years old. The camps are fun, educational, and unlike other local opportunities. Summer camp starts on June 3 and runs fr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 3, 2019) -- On April 12 at 6 p.m., the Gulf Coast Symphony Jazz Ensemble will perform at Edison and Ford Winter Estates for the next Rhythm on the River concert. The event will take place in the River Pavilion along the C..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 28, 2019) -- On April 11 at 7:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the Fort Myers Film Festival. Three films will be shown on the Henry Ford estate lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River, including an Edison silent..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 27, 2019) -- New health and wellness programs are being offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. "Yoga Along the River" will be held on April 6 and April 20 at 9:30 a.m. in the river pavilion. Then, on May 18, "Full Moon ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 25, 2019) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is offering a series of robotics classes on Sundays, starting March 31 for students in grades 4-8. Students will learn the skills necessary to build a robot or design an invention a..
Please note: This event has been canceled. FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 12, 2019..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 11, 2019) -- Neil Zirconia, a Neil Diamond tribute entertainer will perform at the next Edison and Ford Winter Estates' Rhythm on the River celebration at 6 p.m. on April 5. Zirconia, dubbed the ultimate "Faux Diamond,"..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 22, 2019) -- Gardening is becoming more popular every year and as the number of people moving to Florida continues to escalate, the demand for education for growing plants, trees and vegetables increases. To help those new..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 15, 2019) -- On March 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Ford Mustang Car Show as a tribute to Henry Ford, the pioneer of the automobile industry. Owners of Ford Mustangs wi..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 12, 2019) -- On February 22 at 6 p.m., the third Rhythm on the River concert of the season kicks off at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Cellist, Ian Maksin, and Miami-based guitarist, Michel Gonzalez, will perform in the..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 4, 2018) -- On February 27, from 4-6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates (EFWE) will host the Ford Citrus Grove Kick-off event in partnership with Old Florida Citrus, LLC; the University of Florida, Institute of Food an..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 28, 2019) -- The public is invited to celebrate Thomas Edison's 172nd birthday on February 11, at 10 a.m. As part of the celebration, students from the Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School will sing, dance and ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 22, 2019) – On February 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and February 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual winter Garden Festival. More than 40 garden vendors from all over the sta..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 15, 2019) -- On February 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Ford Car Show. Each year, classic car owners and club members exhibit more than 100 cars on the Ford estate l..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 8, 2019) -- This year, Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Gulf Coast Symphony and offering several new Rhythm on the River concerts. On January 31, at 6 p.m., the Sultans of String will perform in the R..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 4, 2019) -- Several new..
Media Contact: Lisa Wilson, APR, Public Relations Director 239-334-7419 LWilson@EdisonFordWinterEstates.org PHOTO: A family has fun inventing in the Smithsonian Spark!Lab at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Edison and Ford Winter Esta..
Media Contact: Lisa Wilson, APR, Public Relations Director 239-334-7419 LWilson@EdisonFordWinterEstates.org Holiday Nights Runs Through December 30 at Edison and Ford Winter Estates FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 21, 2018) -..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (December 3, 2018) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with volunteers from the Cape Coral organization, Holiday 4 Heroes, to collect needed items and mail holiday postcards to soldiers stationed overseas. The voluntee..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 28, 2018) -- Edison and Ford Winter Estates received a $3,000 sponsorship from Storm Smart for the organization's Children's Tree Trail. The sponsorship provides stipends to local schools for art supplies that children use..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (November 6, 2018) -- On Friday, November 23 at 6 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will kick off the The homes and gardens are decorated with thousands of lights f..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 30, 2018) -- Edison and Ford W..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 26, 2018) – On November 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and November 18 fr..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 23, 2018) – The Edison and Ford Winter..
Edison and Ford Winter Estates to Host Florida Humanities Council Speaker Series FORT MYERS, Fla. (October 15, 2018) – The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Florida Humanities Council (FHC) to offer a five-part speaker serie..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 19, 2018) -- On October 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the annual "Airing of the Quilts" quilt show. Dozens of quilts from the Quilters' Guild will be on display, suspended from cl..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 27, 2018) – The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation has appointed Mike Cosden, Executive Vice President at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to its Board of Trustees. In this role, he will support the Florida Trust..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (August 21, 2018) -- The Edison and Ford Winter Estates will be open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Labor Day. Visitors can see the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, the 15,000-square-foot museum and the National Historic ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 16, 2018) -- Beginning Thursday, July 19, international phonograph expert, John Kurdyla, will provide weekly phonograph presentations at Edison and Ford Winter Estates and at the Edison Ford Shoppe at Bell Tower Shoppes. Pres..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 5, 2018) -- The large Mysore Fig that once stood next to the fence along McGregor Boulevard on the Edison estate was one of the trees the site lost during Hurricane Irma. Edison & Ford Winter Estates is offering the public an o..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (July 3, 2018) – To honor Henry Ford, the automobile icon, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates will celebrate his 155th birthday on July 30. The day will start off with free birthday cake served at 10 a.m. Special behind-the-scenes to..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 28, 2018) -- Edison & Ford Winter Estates will be open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Independence Day, Thomas Edison's favorite holiday. The Thomas Edison and Henry For..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 20, 2018) -- On July 13, from 10 a.m. to noon. Edison & Ford Winter Estates will participate in the North American Butterfly Association's (NABA) 43rd annual butterfly count. Results of the count help researchers monitor butter..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (June 11, 2018) – To honor dads on Father's Day, June 17, Ed..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 24, 2018) – This summer, Edison & Ford Winter Estates is offering a special deal for families. During the months of June, July and August, visitors may bring a child, 12 years old or younger, for free. One child will be admit..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 16, 2018) – Edison & Ford Winter Estates offers indoor activities for Southwest Florida visitors and residents. The National Historic Chemical Landmark botanic laboratory and the air-conditioned, 15,000-square-foot museum are ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 9, 2018) -- To honor the men and women who have served our country, Edison & Ford Winter Estates is offering free admission to United States veterans and their immediate family members on Memorial Day, May 28. Free admission inc..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 9, 2018) -- Edison & Ford Winter Estates is offering wood from ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (May 1, 2018) -- To celebrate Mother’s Day on May 13, moms are invited to visit Edison & Ford Winter Estates for free. This is a great way for families to enjoy the day with their mothers. [caption id="attachment_1618" align="a..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 23, 2018) -- On April 27, at 10 a.m., Edison & Ford Winter..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 19, 2018) -- Edison & Ford Winter Estates received more than $10,000 for garden restoration through a fundraising collaboration with Keep Lee County Beautiful, the Community Interact Club of Fort Myers and the Rotary Club of F..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 6, 2018) -- On April 11 from 2-4 p.m., Edison & Ford Winter Estates will host a tea tasting in honor of Clara Ford's 152nd b..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (April 3, 2018) -- On April 8 from 2-4 p.m., Edison & Ford Winter Estates will host the ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 26, 2018) -- On April 7, Edison & Ford Winter Estates will h..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 23, 2018) -- Easter Sunday is a great day to tour the gardens at Edison & Ford Wi..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 16, 2018) -- On March 23 the Edison & Ford Winter Estates and the Fort Myers Film Festival will present “Mullet and Mangroves,” on the historic Ford lawn. Gates open at 7 p.m. The film, directed by Ilene Safron of Main Sa..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (March 2, 2018) -- Edison & Ford Winter Estates is celebrating vintage "base ball" with lectures on March 24 and 25 at the Estates and a vintage base ball game on March 25 at 11 a.m. at Terry Park. [caption id="attachment_1601" al..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 26, 2018) -- On March 4 from 1-4 p.m., Edison & Ford Winter Estates will host its Art in Bloom art show in partnership with the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council. This unique art show features floral designs paired with ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 26, 2018) -- On March 2, Edison & Ford Winter Estates ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 23, 2018) -- On March 3, from 10..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 2, 2018) -- The Edison & Ford Winter Estates board of trustees and executive search committee has selected Michael A. Flanders as the organization’s new President and CEO. Flanders has a long history with Edison Ford and ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (February 1, 2018) -- On February 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and February 11, from..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 26, 2018) -- On February 10, Edison & Ford Winter Esta..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 10, 2018) -- The public is invited to celebrate Thomas Edison's 171st birthday on February 9 at 10 a.m. at Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Birthday festivities include photo opportunities with "Thomas" and "Mina," students fro..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 4, 2018) -- On February 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Edison & Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Antique Car Exhibition featuring antique Ford models. Each year, classic car owners and club members exhibit more than 100 ..
FORT MYERS, Fla. (January 3, 2018) -- On January 19, Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its monthly Rhythm on the River music celebration with Almost AHBA, an ABBA tribute band, at 5:30 p.m. in the river pavilion. The group will play many ..
Led by enthusiastic Site Historians, the tour includes the historic homes and gardens of the Edison and Ford families, as well as admission into the museum and the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory. Tour time: Approximately 75 minutes We recomme..
This position assists the Edison Ford Events and Site Rental Department and will be responsible for data base entry, telephone/ email correspondence and filing. Excellent communications skills necessary and must like working with people! Hours var..
Interns for this program will work with Summer Camp Instructors and Edison Ford Education staff. The majority of the internship will involve assisting in Edison Ford Summer Camp. The internship requires enrollment in a degree program from accredited..
This position assists the Edison Ford Education Department and will be responsible for data base entry, telephone/email correspondence and filing. The internship requires enrollment in a degree program from accredited College or University. Excellent..
Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Edison and Ford families' historic homes and gardens, museum (including antique automobiles), and laboratory at your own pace. The last ticket is sold at 4:30 p.m. daily (although we recommend arr..
Enthusiastic historians lead groups in immersive tours of the historic homes and gardens of the Edison and Ford families. Allow 60 minutes for the tour and additional time to view the museum and laboratory, which are also included in the ticket price..
The Edison Ford automobile collection includes a number of historic and antique vehicles. This special guided tour focuses on the unique collection, the history of the vehicles and how they operate, and is led by an automotive expert. Cost of the Aut..
The Inside the Homes Tour takes visitors through normally-closed areas of Thomas Edison's and Henry Ford's winter estate homes. Tours are led by Edison Ford curatorial staff and expert historians. Visitors will enjoy rooms not seen during other tours..
Mittwochs: Führungen durch die Edison and Ford Winter Estates werden jetzt auch in deutscher Sprache angeboten. Die Führungen beinhalten die historischen Wohnhäuser, den tropischen Gartens. App- oder telefonische Touren werden täglich in Eng..
