October at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates is highlighted with the return of the Estates Clothesline Quilt Show and Airing of the Quilts as well as a variety of other special programs throughout the month of October. The October schedule of programs and events include:
Estates Fall Volunteer Event, October 8, 2 PM
Yvonne Hill, author of Sanibel Island, Florida (Images of America Series) will be the guest speaker. After Hill’s discussion, volunteers will tour the inside of the historic homes with Estates Curator, Pam Miner, to view the recent restoration and improvements. Registration is required by calling 239-334-7419.
New Volunteer Orientation, October 13, 10 AM
Join Estates staff to learn about volunteer opportunities, Estates policies and general Museum information. This is a mandatory training for all new Estates volunteers but potential volunteers are welcome.
Home Schoolers: “Can You Hear Me Now?” October 16, 1pm – 3pm
The science of communication technology is advancing everyday. Home schoolers will learn about Edison and Ford’s contribution to communication technology from phonograph to iPod. Curriculum follows the Florida Sunshine objectives for learning. The program follows the Lee County mandated program and addresses environmental science, history and reading SOLS. Pre-visit curriculum materials will be mailed to registered families. Registration required. Estates members $5; non members $15 (one adult, one child) additional $5 per child.
Docent Training, October 22, 9 AM
New Estates volunteers who are interested in becoming Edison & Ford porch, Lab and Museum docents, or leading a group tour of the Estates grounds must attend this mandatory meeting.
Clothesline Quilt Show and Airing of Quilts, October 31, 10 AM – 2 PM
The Edison & Ford Winter Estates and the Southwest Florida Quilters’ Guild will be “airing their quilts” on clotheslines on the beautiful historic Edison estate. The tradition of “airing” quilts dates back to Colonial America when women would take quilts out of summer storage and “air” them in autumn for use in winter. In addition to the contemporary quilts available for show and sale, a variety of antique quilts will be on display, live Edison era music will be performed, and a collection of antique cars will be on display. Estates Members FREE; non members $5.
Estates at Downtown Farmers’ Market, Thursdays, 7 AM – 1 PM
The Estates Garden Shoppe will be participating in the Downtown Farmers’ Market located in the Centennial Park parking lot. The Estates joins fruit, vegetable, and fresh flower vendors in this 14 year tradition. The Estates will offer herbs, heritage plants, garden supplies, and garden items available for purchase. Estates members will receive a 10% discount.
Mark your calendars: Upcoming Estates Events
• Edison Garden Market, November 27, 28, & 29
The Edison Garden Market attracts plant vendors from throughout the state to sell unique plants, orchids, herbs, trees and garden merchandise. The event also includes workshops, food sales, music and other activities. The Market is a great event for family and friends on Thanksgiving weekend.
• Edison & Ford Holiday Nights, Preview Party, December 10, 6 PM
Kick off the holiday season with the first annual holiday party at the gloriously decorated homes and gardens of the Estates. Guests will enjoy a special preview of the Estates annual event, food and beverages by the river, live music and much more. Estates members, $50; non members $60. To RSVP call 239-334-7419.
• Edison & Ford Holiday Nights, December 11 – January 3, 5:30 PM – 9 PM
The Estates holiday tradition continues with “Edison & Ford Holiday Nights,” southwest Florida’s 34 year annual event. The winter homes of the Edison and Ford families will be seasonally decorated with the “favorite things” of the Edison and Ford families. The Edison Botanic Lab and Estates Museum will be open every evening with special exhibits as well as nightly holiday performances by area students and groups. Special discount nights available to Lee County Residents opening weekend (December 11 &12). Group rates are available to groups of 20 or more people with advance reservations. For more information call 239-334-7419.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates' Blog 
