In 1910, Sonora Smart Dodd, from Spokane, Washington, initiated the celebration of fathers, establishing a tradition that continues to this day. It all began when Dodd attended a Mother's Day sermon in 1909, which sparked her curiosity about the absence of a similar day dedicated to fathers. This thought bothered her, especially considering that she and her five younger brothers were raised by their father after their mother passed away. Her father, William Jackson Smart, had served in the Civil War and not only fulfilled both parental roles but did so with exceptional leadership and love. Determined to give her father the recognition he deserved, Dodd tirelessly collaborated with local clergy and enlisted the support of the YWCA. Finally, in 1910, Spokane celebrated its first Father's Day. Although it took several decades for the celebration to gain national attention, Dodd persisted, spending 62 years lobbying presidents and retailers to support the cause. Her efforts paid off in 1972 when President Richard Nixon declared the third Sunday of June as a federal holiday honoring fathers. Dodd lived to witness her dream come true before passing away at the age of 96 in 1978.


Image Source - wokv.com | Image By John Rogers


Sonora Smart Dodd was a multi-talented woman—a painter, poet, and businesswoman who ran a funeral home with her husband while raising their only son, Jack, who would become a father himself. Dodd's great-granddaughter, Betsy Roddy, feels immense pride in her great-grandmother's independent spirit. Roddy, now the marketing director for a prominent Los Angeles company, inherited Dodd's renegade spirit. Though she never had children of her own, Roddy recognizes the significance of being the last direct descendant of the holiday's creator. Initially keeping the legacy within the family, Roddy has recently begun sharing her family's story, thanks to the interest shown by MyHeritage.com, a company focused on tracing family histories. The discovery of historical documents about Dodd has inspired Roddy to consider eventually contributing some artifacts to a museum. She cherishes the memories of her great-grandmother, from their deep connection during Roddy's childhood to the treasured poems, books, and notes Dodd gave her over the years. Now, ready to embrace her role as the ultimate insider of Father's Day, Roddy aims to carry the baton proudly, honoring her great-grandmother's legacy. With a smile, she acknowledges the honor of being the last direct descendant and the custodian of this important family tradition.