Edison Botanic Research Laboratory

Built in 1928, the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory was designed for one purpose: to find a natural source of rubber that could be grown in the United States. The laboratory was divided into six sections, and parts of it operated similarly to an assembly line, with critical tasks performed in each area: a Plant Grinding Room, Chemical Processing Area, Extraction & Distillation Apparatus, Machine Shop, Dark Room, and Laboratory Office. The adjacent chemical storage vault was constructed of Edison Portland Cement. Fort Myers architect Nat Gaillard Walker designed the laboratory, the adjacent cement vault, and several of the residential structures at the estate.

Fort Myers, Florida · United States