For many people, those things all bring to mind one specific person: Dad. And since Fathers Day is just around the corner, we at Cowart Insurance thought we’d give you some gift ideas - and some fun history trivia, too!

The history of Father’s Day

Marked on the third Sunday of June in the United States, Fathers Day was first celebrated in 1910 to complement Mother’s Day. According to Wikipedia, the day was created by Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, who wanted to honor her father, Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart.

Although Dodd originally suggested the birthday of her father in early June, she had not provided organizers with enough time to arrange the event - and the celebration was delayed until the third Sunday of the month.

Although Mothers Day has been an official national holiday since 1914, Fathers Day had a much tougher road. Congress refused to make the celebration official in the years immediately following the first observance, fearing that the day would become commercialized.

It was not until 1966 that Fathers Day received an official proclamation, thanks to President Lyndon B. Johnson. And six years later, President Richard Nixon signed a law making the day a national holiday. 

Facts and figures (from government website USA.gov)

• There are an estimated 70.1 million fathers across the nation
• An estimated 1.7 million men are single fathers
• Approximately 176,000 fathers are stay-at-home dads

What to get Dad?

Once you are past the age of, say, 10, the “Old Spice and a tie” routine probably will not cut it anymore when it comes to getting a gift for your father. Here are some better ideas from AskMen.com:

• Grilling tools (this way, perhaps he will even cook for you on Father’s Day!)
• Alcohol (to be enjoyed in moderation, of course)
• Fishing gear
• Camping gear
• Golf clubs, balls or other sporting goods - or take him out for a round of golf
• Grilling Cookbooks
• The latest book on his Summer must read list
• Electronic Gadgets
• Landscaping services (so he can take a break from mowing the lawn)

Aside from ties and cheap cologne, you will probably want to avoid the most clichéd gifts, especially “World’s Best Dad” items (even if it is true!) and socks.

As with all gifts, though, it is the thought that counts. And we are sure your dad will appreciate simply being appreciated. And if you are a dad yourself – Happy Fathers Day! We hope you will enjoy your day.