Laboratory

In 2014, the American Chemical Society designated the Edison Botanic Research Laboratory as a National Historic Chemical Landmark. The lab is the only site in the state of Florida to receive this title and is a true national treasure!

Edison Botanic
Research Corporation

In 1927, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone were concerned about America’s dependence on foreign rubber sources for its industrial enterprises. The three men formed the Edison Botanic Research Corporation (EBRC), and the following year, built this Laboratory, which became the project’s international headquarters.

17,000 Plant samples

Under Edison’s leadership, the corporation sought a source of rubber that could be grown and produced quickly in the U.S., in the event of a foreign supply shortage. After testing more than 17,000 plant samples, Edison eventually selected Goldenrod as the most suitable.

The Laboratory was operational until 1936 (five years after Edison’s death), when the project was transferred to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The layout of the interior contains a chemical processing area, machine shop, grinding room, office and dark room.

Growing Plants

Outside the Laboratory once stood a garage (now the Museum Store), a slat house for growing and drying plant materials, a small concrete vault for storage (still standing) and a drying oven.

Plants grew in acres of research beds, raised gardens and various shade structures surrounding the Laboratory.