One of the ten most visited historic homes in the United States, the site consists of two properties - The Thomas Edison Winter Estate and the Ford Estate.
The Thomas Edison Winter Estate, built in 1886, was the actual long-time winter residence of the famous inventor, Thomas Edison, who referred to the property as "Seminole Lodge". More than just a mansion, Edison planted an extensive tropical garden partially for the purpose of his experiments. For his experimental work Edison built a chemical lab on the property as well.
Henry Ford, built his winter vacation home right next door in 1915 and called it "The Mangoes".
Located in Fort Myers, this site is of interest to a wide range of travelers. The homes and the original furnishings provide insight into the lifestyles of the rich and famous in the early part of the 20th century. Add to that the inventive spirit of Thomas Edison and you will see some pretty innovative features for a house dating back to the late 1800's. Of particular note is the 1910 swimming pool, one of the first in Florida and the subject of 40 patents. If the invention of the light bulb and phonograph (what's that?) is not impressive enough to younger tourists, perhaps this visit to the home of the man who "invented" the swimming pool will do the trick.