The Story Behind Father's Day

It goes to say that dads are definitely one of the most important men in our lives. Whether it is climbing up ladders to fix the faulty light bulb in our room, or bringing everyone out for the weekend, our dads have worked hard to provide for the family. Time to give Dad his well-deserved break and show him your appreciation this upcoming Father's Day!

As we celebrate our fathers' achievements and efforts this Sunday, have you ever wondered how Father's Day came about? Take a quick dive into history to find out more on the day dedicated to our favourite superhero.

Early Beginnings

The origin of the occasion can be traced back to a Father's Day service that took place in West Virginia in 1908. Tragedy struck when over 300 men were killed in a mining explosion, leaving many children without their fathers. Grace Golden Clayton, whose father died in the disaster, suggested holding a service in memory of the fathers who passed away at her church, though it never caught on as an annual event.

Establishing Father's Day

It would be one year later in May of 1909 that the idea was proposed once again by Sonora Smart Dodd, and Father's Day started to gain recognition. Sonora was attending a Mother's Day sermon at church in Spokane, Washington when the idea came to her: how about having a day dedicated to honouring fathers as well?

This epiphany was inspired by a father's devotion to his children. After his wife died in childbirth, Sonora's father William Jackson Smart went on to raise all six of his children by himself. In honour of her father's love and dedication, Sonora gathered support and petitioned to observe Father's Day in her city on 5 June, her father's birthday.

Sonora's efforts paid off. While the festivities were deferred to the third Sunday in June due to need more time for preparations, the first Father's Day was celebrated at the YMCA in Spokane on 19 June 1910. It became an annual event at Spokane, and the holiday slowly spread across the country. Father's Day became officially recognised as a national holiday when President Richard Nixon passed the bill in 1972.  

Recognising our Fathers' Efforts

As we celebrate Father's Day today, let us express our heartfelt gratitude for all that our fathers have done for us. One of the best ways to show Dad your appreciation is to present him with a well-thought-out gift.

A fine wallet and belt are some of the most important essentials a man can have. Give Dad a matching set of wallet and belt for him to stay classy and organised with ease. Snag a gift set for your dad here.

Specially for Father's Day, we are also having a 10% off all our men's collection! Enter the code 'DADROCKS' when you checkout to enjoy this deal from now till 16 June. Browse our collection here.

Being Dad is indeed not an easy job, so do remember to reward Dad and make him extra happy on this special occasion. Here's wishing you a Happy Father's Day!