Unlike Mother’s day gifts, the history of Father’s day gifts is not tied to an ancient Greek or Roman festival. It seems quite likely that the idea to celebrate a day for fathers was inspired by the persistence of Anna Jarvis to establish a day to honor mothers. It is thought that Sonora Smart Dodds attended a Mother’s day sermon in 1909 and while listening to the virtues of Mother’s day, she came up with the idea for a “Father’s day”, particularly in honor of her own father.

Sonora’s father was a Civil War Veteran and became a single parent from the time of his sixth child’s birth, when Sonora’s mother died in labor. Thus he raised and provided for six children all on his own. Sonora picked the month of June for the observance because her father was born in that month. The first celebration was held in Spokane, WA, in 1910, but not until the year 1972 was it signed by President Nixon as a permanent observance.

History of Father’s Day Gifts: Cards and Collect Calls

Similar to Mother’s day, the Father’s day is multicultural around the world, though the history of Father’s day gifts is not so expansive. Not yet 100 years old, giving gifts on Father’s day descends from the practice of Mother’s day and serves to demonstrate your love and respect. Common gift ideas include: a tie, sports equipment (i.e. a new golf club or towel, new shoes, new racket), wine, cigars, books/magazines/music. Also, breakfast in bed or a phone call are thoughtful gifts. Though there was once a tradition of giving hand-made cards as well, cards for Father’s day are mass-produced.