The Fascinating History of Father's Day: 5 Key Milestones & Best Gifts for Dad from Historia

Father's Day, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June, is a cherished occasion to honor fathers and father figures for their love and guidance. With Father's Day 2025 falling on June 15, it’s the perfect time to explore its rich history and discover meaningful Father's Day gifts. This blog post traces the evolution of Father's Day history through five pivotal milestones and highlights the best goods from Historia, a brand dedicated to 100% USA-made home goods with historical roots, to delight any dad.

1. The First Father's Day in 1910
The origins of Father's Day trace back to Spokane, Washington, where Sonora Smart Dodd initiated the first celebration on June 19, 1910. Inspired by her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who single-handedly raised her and her five siblings after their mother’s death, Dodd sought to create an equivalent to Mother's Day. She enlisted local churches, the YMCA, and community leaders to support her vision, marking the beginning of Father's Day traditions. This modest start laid the foundation for a national holiday, reflecting the resilience of fatherhood.

2. Struggles for Recognition in the Early 20th Century
Despite its debut, Father's Day faced resistance in the decades that followed. Some viewed it as a commercial gimmick, with critics scoffing at the idea of honoring fathers with gifts like ties and tobacco. During the 1920s and 1930s, a movement even proposed replacing it with a unified Parents' Day. However, the Great Depression and World War II shifted perspectives, as retailers and advertisers promoted Father's Day gifts to support troops and boost morale, gradually embedding the holiday in American culture.

3. Official Recognition in 1966 and 1972
The push for official status gained traction when President Lyndon B. Johnson issued a proclamation in 1966, designating the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. However, it wasn’t until 1972, under President Richard Nixon, that it became a permanent federal holiday. This milestone solidified Father's Day history as a time to celebrate paternal bonds, with traditions evolving to include family gatherings, handmade gifts, and expressions of gratitude, making it a staple of summer celebrations.

4. Global Variations and Modern Traditions
While the U.S. celebrates Father's Day in June, other countries have unique customs. In Catholic Europe, it aligns with St. Joseph’s Day on March 19, while Thailand honors it on December 5, the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In the U.S., modern Father's Day traditions include barbecues, outdoor activities, and personalized gifts. Today, Americans spend over $1 billion annually on this holiday, reflecting its growth into a major cultural event with diverse ways to honor dads.

5. Father's Day Today: A Celebration of Heritage
In 2025, Father's Day continues to evolve, blending nostalgia with contemporary appreciation. It’s a day to reflect on the legacy of fathers like William Smart and to celebrate with meaningful gestures. From heartfelt cards to quality time, the holiday emphasizes the enduring influence of fatherhood. With its historical significance, it’s also an opportunity to gift items that honor American heritage, making Historia’s USA-made goods a perfect fit.

Best Goods for Dad from Historia

Historia offers a curated selection of 100% USA-made home goods that resonate with dads who value craftsmanship and history. For the history buff dad, the Cast Iron Skillet—handcrafted in the USA with a seasoned finish—evokes the rugged spirit of early American kitchens, ideal for his grilling adventures. The Beeswax Candles, made from pure American beeswax, bring a warm, historical ambiance to his den, perfect for quiet evenings. For the dad who loves a skincare routine, check out the aftershave and tallow face cream. Lastly, the cutting board series, is a durable, heirloom-quality gift for his culinary pursuits. These items reflect Historia’s commitment to quality and heritage, making them the best Father's Day gifts to honor your dad.

Celebrate Father's Day 2025 by exploring its historical roots and gifting dad something special from Historia. What are your favorite Father's Day traditions? Share your thoughts in the comments!