Edison and Ford Estates to close; goes virtual

On March 24 at 4:30 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will close its gates to the public. All areas of the site, including the Garden Shoppe and Museum Store will be closed for an undetermined length of time.

“These are truly challenging times,” said Mike Flanders, President and CEO. “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 loved ones. Because our top priority is the health and well-being of our staff and visitors, our site will be closing today.”

The site opened to the public in 1947, when Mina Edison deeded the property to the City of Fort Myers. Since that time, the site has been a major contributor to the local economy. Her goal was to leave a legacy of Thomas Edison and for people to continue to learn and be inspired by all that he accomplished. 

Today, the mission of the organization 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 Henry Ford, emphasizing Florida history, science, horticulture and the arts. Because of the invaluable support from members and the community, the site is able to fulfill this mission.

“My faith and belief in the sincerity of the people of Fort Myers prompted me to make this sacred spot a gift to you and posterity as a Sanctuary and Botanical Park in the memory of my honored and revered husband Thomas Edison, who so thoroughly believed in the future of Fort Myers,” said Mina Edison.

To continue to educate and inspire the public, the site is launching a social media video series “Edison Ford Goes Virtual,” which will be available for all to follow on the @EdisonFordFL Facebook page and on the EdisonFord.org website.

All of the staff at the organization wish everyone the best health as the community passes through these troubled waters.