The pier was originally called "the wharf." It was used as a working area to off-load boats carrying materials and contents for the homes and laboratory, beginning in November 1885. After the Estate buildings were complete, the pier's initial function changed.
Mina's correspondence to family in 1909 relates, "Thomas caught a trout, snapper and I think a small tarpon which he did land, right off the pier... We may supper there this evening, I am not sure."
By this time, Edison had improved the pier by lengthening it into the Caloosahatchee River about 1,500 feet and adding small docks, boat houses, and a summer house. The area was used routinely as a gathering place for leisure and recreational actives.
The many beautifying improvements to the grounds in the 1920s included the addition of a feature at the entrance of the pier. It was comprised of a rustic bridge, benches, and a trellis wrapped with a colorful bougainvillea vine. Besides creating a new spot to sit along the river bank, the feature enhanced the impressive view across the lawn through to the river as guest entered the Estate via the Main Gate Allee.
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A postcard of the Edison historic pier. (Circa 1930)
Mina strolls across the bridge. (Circa 1925)
Mina Edison and a friend at the summer house on the Edison pier. (Circa 1920)
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