Throughout history, fathers have been depicted as leaders, protectors, and providers. They are rarely portrayed as nurturers—that role has belonged to mothers. But, as we know, popular history doesn’t always reflect the full story.
William Smart was a Civil War veteran who was left to raise an infant and five small children after his wife died in childbirth. To his daughter, Senora, he was a courageous and selfless single parent who made many sacrifices for his children. He was also the inspiration for Father’s Day.
Senora Smart was inspired by Anna Jarvis’s efforts to establish Mother's Day. In 1910 she requested that a day be set aside to celebrate fathers. She suggested June 5; the anniversary of her father’s death. Time constraints led the holiday to be celebrated on the third Sunday of June instead. The event became so popular that President Coolidge recommended that Father’s Day become a national holiday in 1924. Despite the recommendation, it was almost fifty years before Father’s Day was officially recognized in 1972.
No matter what roles you play in your family—leader, provider, nurturer, protector, or others—your support of your children is essential to their happiness and well-being. We’re honored to assist you in developing sound college and estate plans to ensure your children’s futures.
The above material was prepared by Peak Advisor Alliance.