Throughout the 1920s, the Edison family spent a lot of time in Fort Myers. When the Edison's were in Southwest Florida, the Amish began traveling to Pinecraft, a campground and neighborhood in Sarasota, just north of Fort Myers. The earliest Amish and Mennonite visitors traveled to Florida to escape the cold temperatures up north. They also wanted more opportunities to farm during the winter months. Although their farming efforts were not successful, Pinecraft became a major vacation destination for these communities throughout the United States and Canada. Today, roughly 5,000 people visit each year, primarily in the winter. In this discussion, Program Manager, Holly Shaffer, will discuss the history of these groups in Pinecraft and why they still visit there today. 

This is a free virtual lecture. Register online at https://www.edisonfordwinterestates.org/. Donations are appreciated.