Downtown Fort Myers Field Trip

I had such a great time on our field trip to Downtown Fort Myers with our Colloquium class. Though it was not as riddled with varieties of plant, animal, and insect species as our other field trips were, it was very interesting being able to learn more about the history of the area in which we spend so much time.

As we rode in to the downtown area together on our big, white bus, we were able to gaze outside our windows to see dozens of Royal Palms lining the road. Before we even stepped out of the bus, we learned that this type of palm tree is native of Cuba. Thomas Edison lived in an estate along the road, and it was his wife who loved them so much to bring them to the area.

Once we arrived, we talked about the numerous pieces of history that took place in the area. We learned that Fort Myers was actually named after the commander of the fort’s son-in-law, who never actually set foot in the fort itself. We also talked about how the Buckingham field and Page field were used for training for soldiers. While walking, we learned that the large American flag was donated by an insurance company and when it was being raised on a windy day, was wrapped around the men who were putting it up.

We learned about the mangroves that line the land and are placed in windows so the water can be seen. This can be done based on an agreement that if the mangroves are taken out of one area, they will be replaced elsewhere.

It was exciting seeing the fountain entitled “Uncommon Friends,” which features Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone. These men were very influential, both in their time and leading to today.

I loved having the opportunity to walk around the downtown area and learn the various things that formed its existence. Before taking a tour of the of the Hotel Indigo, we were able to see a huge mosaic mural in the courtyard that had been hidden for years because it hadn’t featured the “important” people that were intended, but instead portrayed farmers and African American soldiers along the newly constructed railroad.

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