The estates provide an enriching educational experience where students can delve into the lives and legacies of two of America’s greatest inventors—Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The 21-acre historical site includes the inventors’ winter homes, botanical gardens, a museum filled with original artifacts, and Edison’s botanical laboratory.
Teachers can expect their students to immerse themselves in history, science, and the arts. Educational programs at the estates are designed to align with curriculum standards and cover subjects such as invention, innovation, ecology, and American history. Students can explore Edison’s experiments, Ford’s advancements in the automotive industry, and the impact of their work on modern society.
The estates offer a variety of student programs, including guided tours led by knowledgeable historians, hands-on science workshops, and interactive activities that encourage problem-solving and creative thinking. Programs can be customized to suit different grade levels and educational objectives, making the learning experience both meaningful and adaptable.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer virtual field trips for schools that cannot visit the site. These live, interactive sessions allow students to explore the historical grounds, view artifacts, and engage with educators in real-time discussions. Virtual programs are designed to be engaging and educational, ensuring students can benefit from the estates’ resources remotely.
Teachers can access educational materials such as lesson plans, activity sheets, and virtual resources to enhance classroom learning. Professional development opportunities may also be available to help educators incorporate themes of innovation and history into their curricula.
A field trip to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates provides a unique opportunity for students to connect with the past, understand the invention process, and be inspired by the creativity and perseverance of two influential figures in American history.