Edison Pool Complex

Edison Pool Complex. . , “Madeleine, Marie, Theodore and the two maids have gone bathing in the hotel pool, so everybody is happy," wrote Mina to family, April 7, 1909., By the 1911 winter season the family and staff no longer had to travel downtown to the Royal Palm Hotel pool. Edison had a bathing pool built right on his own Estate., The pool was constructed by W.R. Wallace and Company of Fort Myers. The work included the floor and walls made of concrete, re-enforced throughout with woven wires or expanded metal, corners for 10 feet reinforced with ½ inch twisted iron bar, and the side and bottom made continuous by interweaving of the metal. Initially it included stone steps leading to the pool, a plank walk around the interior of the pool, a board fence, and dressing rooms located on the southeast corner. The final cost for the project was about $1,000., The swimming pool underwent major changes in 1928 to meet more modern needs. The remodeling plan was designed by the local architect Nat Gaillard Walker. Concrete walks around the pool, pipe framing for the railing fence and pavilion, a tea house, fountain and a bath house with showers were added. All features were attached to make one combined entertainment area., The pool complex remained a favorite spot for the Edison family as Madeleine relates in a letter to her mother March 10, 1947:, “We did enjoy the lazy days at Fort Myers, I couldn’t have borne it not to see the place again as it always was, and I’m glad it was warm enough for a farewell swim in the pool!”