Edison and Ford Winter Estates

We skipped going to see this exhibit the last time we were in Fort Myers, but it was highly recommended by some friends so we decided to give it a go....and I'm so glad we did.

The central trunk is in the middle of this photo.  As you can see, each shoot that comes off the branches and touches the ground becomes another tree trunk ...and so it goes on and on, creating its own personal forest.

Edison and Ford were good friends and ended up having their estates next door to each other.  I couldn't help but think if it were not for these two geniuses we wouldn't be driving to the movies as often as we do.

We did the audio tour and learned more about these two men as we wandered about the estate, enjoying the sunshine and beauty all around us.

The first thing you notice when arriving are the trees.  They are massive and awe inspiring.  I'd been wishing for a good example of a banyan tree to show the grandkids while they were in Florida, and wish these had been closer. 

There are guided tours available and the inside tours are on specific days, but it was fun to glimpse into the rooms and see an era from long ago.

Orchids are attached to many of the mango trees and could be seen blooming everywhere.

The Caloosahatchee River is behind the property and the benches positioned along the trail allow for a leisurely view of the water.

My favorite part of the tour was in the museum where a video presented the camping tours of the Vagabonds, which gave rise to the concept of recreational vehicles.  Of course, they did it wearing suits and traveling with servants and cooks.

I was able to have a short chat with Mina Edison about our husbands before leaving the estates.

Long Live the Queen