History

History of Fort Myers FL

Fort Myers’ lineage dates back to the 1500s when Ponce de Leon was believed to have visited the islands of Lee County. In 1821 Florida became a U.S. Territory. Named in honor of Colonel Abraham C. Myers, the city of Fort Myers was constructed along the Caloosahatchee River and was used as place of operations during the Seminole Indian Wars. It was a very unpopulated area with no more than ten families living there in 1876. Agriculture seemed to be the most popular industry.

Thomas Edison came through Fort Myers in 1885. He was enamored by what he saw and decided to build his home and laboratory on the banks of the river. He was instrumental in the growth and development of Fort Myers and became the most famous resident. He was even responsible for the city becoming known as the “City of Palms” by having royal palms planted to line what is now McGregor Boulevard.

As a testament to this growth, the population has significantly increased in the past few decades. With tourism booming and development everywhere, Fort Myers is sure to continue to flourish.