Father's Day History

Father's day is believed to have originated in Spokane, Washington, USA. in 1910. 

The original idea is attributed to Mrs John Bruce-Dodd whom wanted a day to remember her father whose selflessness and devotion to her and her siblings was unswerving after her mother died whilst giving birth to the sixth child of the family.

Father's day became a national celebration in the USA for the first time in 1924 when President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a national Father's Day however it was not until 1966 that it was set in statue in the USA to fall on the 3rd Sunday of June.

In 1926, a National Father's Day Committee was formed in New York City.

In 1956, Father's Day was officially recognised in the USA by a Joint Resolution of Congress.

In 1966, US President, Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day. 

In 1972, President Richard Nixon established a permanent national observance of Father's Day in the USA to be held on the third Sunday of June.

We've searched a number of sources to find how it developed in the UK and not found a great deal of information, it appears that the anniversary was imported from America and it was not until the late 70's did it start to grow in popularity. It is believed it is not even officially recognised by the government in the UK. If you know different then please let us know.

© Beacon Support Services Ltd. 2006