William Jackson Smart was a Civil War Veteran who raised his family on his own after the death of his spouse.
His devoted daughter, Sonora Smart Dodd, recognized her father’s unconditional dedication to his kids — so much that she created a day in his honor!
In 1909, inspired by a Mother’s Day sermon. Sonora launched a campaign to gain national recognition for her father and other dads just like him.
The reaction was decidedly tepid at the time, and it took almost 60 years for the official nod.
In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson designated the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day, and, in 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a law declaring Father’s Day a permanent national holiday.
What to give?
Give the gimmicky gifts a rest. There’s still time to try something different. Here are some suggestions: (Brand names are used for price comparison on some items but generic offerings for each – except #10 – are available.)
#1. A Masterclass membership.
Lessons on virtually everything from writing to sports and health to art and design. Hundreds of choices with pricing dependent on the learning package you choose. Worth perusing.
Local options: Check out the artistic choices at the Art House (https://www.904arthouse.com) or drive Dad to Whitney Lab for their FREE lecture series. (https://www.whitney.ufl.edu/news–events/evenings-at-whitney-public-lectures)
#2. Digital photo album OR a framed personalized print or poster.
Shutterfly and Snapfish are popular platforms but other options abound! Huge selections with prices ranging from $15 – $150.
Local options: Visit Imagine Fine Art Printing ( https://www.imaginefineartprinting.com) or The Print Shop (Big plus: they open at 7:30! https://theprintshopofstaugustine.com)
#3. Standing desk mat
Anti-fatigue and foot support for the stand-up Dad! You’ll spend between $30 – $150 to keep Dad on his feet.
Local options: Office Depot, Staples, WalMart, or Target.
#4. Bespoke Post Stargazing Kit
A stellarscope and book are included. About $70
Tip: Download one of the stargazing apps like Night Sky to accompany the kit. Very handy and most are free to use.
Local options: Interested in astronomy? Check out this informative but unofficial FB page, and maybe take Dad to one of the gatherings.: (https://www.facebook.com/groups/113770296705472)
#5. POWERUP Smartphone Airplane Kit
A smartphone, remote- controlled paper airplane Kit. Comes with autopilot and gyro stabilizer About $50
Local options: Interested in aviation? Visit the Northeast Florida Regional Airport. There’s a special “Wings and Wheels” event on June 14th! (https://www.flynf.com)
#6. Fellows Aiden Precision Coffee Maker.
Pricey but well worth it!
For all you pour-over people, this one has all the “rights” – temperature, timing, and technique.
Around $350.https://thekookaburracoffee.com/
Local options: Give Dad a bag of beans or a gift card from one of our local roasteries. Kookaburra (https://thekookaburracoffee.com/) for fancy; Island Donuts for the basics – plus breakfast or baked goods! (https://islanddonut.com)
#7. Uncommon Goods Shiitake Mushroom Log Kit.
Now Dad can grow his own shiitake! A new harvest every six weeks for up to three years! Maybe he’ll share.
Around $30.
Local options: Mushroom farms are sprouting up all over St. Johns County. A quick google search should show you one in your area. Grab Dad and go!
#8. Dad, I Wrote a Book About You!
Lots of options on this gift idea, all of them with writing prompts and room for putting your own personal reflections down on paper. All ages.
About $10 on Amazon but you can spend upward of $100 for a life story or more complete history.
Local options: Browse the book selections at these independently-owned shops: Second Read Books, 51D Cordova St., (904) 829-0334. OR Buy the Book on US1 South. (https://www.buythebookstaugustine.com)
#9. BowFlex SelectTech Adjustable Kettlebell.
Yes, we’ve included a sports item just to be on the safe side. This one adjusts from 8 to 40 lbs with the turn of a dial.
About $130
Local options: Looking for a boxing or fitness gym? Salomon Services for fitness (https://salomonservices.com) and Amp Hardcore for boxing. (https://www.amphardcoregym.com)
#10. Give Dad a call or a visit. It’s all he really wants. And if he’s passed, give him some time in your thoughts.
