Fort Myers, named in honor of Colonel Abraham C. Myers in 1850, was one of the first forts built along the Caloosahatchee River. In 1885 Thomas A. Edison visited the town and within two years built his home and laboratory on the banks of the river.

The twentieth century dawned with 943 residents in Fort Myers. The town was experiencing a "building boom" with the construction of many homes including the Murphy-Burroughs style home as well as the Mediterranean Revival buildings seen throughout the City.

Today, Downtown Fort Myers is filled with businesses ranging from cafes and antique stores to financial houses and a convention center. The municipal marina now houses up to 246 boats and Centennial Park provides a popular place for people to gather for outdoor events.