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Edison National Historic SiteThomas Edison sitting at his desk talking with an employee.
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Edison National Historic Site
History & Culture
 
Thomas Edison and his family on the back porch of Glenmont.
NPS Photo
Thomas Edison with Madeleine, Mina, Theodore and Charles and the back porch of Glenmont.

At the corner of Main Street and Lakeside Avenue in West Orange, New Jersey stands a group of red brick buildings. To the passing motorist the buildings betray little evidence of their glory days and of the people who worked inside. A short distance away is Glenmont, Thomas Edison's estate. Together, the laboratory and residence preserve the work and character of America's foremost inventor, Thomas Edison and the family, friends and business associates who played a key role in his success.

School age Thomas Edison
Young Thomas Edison
Brief biography of Thomas Edison, suitable for students.
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Photograph of Thomas Edison at the age of fourteen years.  

Did You Know?
There is a rumor that Edison was actually born in Mexico, based on his middle name Alva. However, Alva was the name of a family friend, Captain Bradley. When he was young, Edison's nickname was "Al," from his middle name Alva.

Last Updated: September 29, 2007 at 16:54 EST