Mother’s Day: A daughter’s gift to the woman who inspired her

Ever wonder why we have Mother’s Day? It’s because of a woman from West Virginia named Anna Jarvis (1864-1948).

Anna wanted to pay tribute to her mother Ann Jarvis, a community activist, wife and mother. It’s thought that Ann had as many as 12 kids, but most of them died in childhood.

After Ann Jarvis died, on May 9, 1905, Anna decided that the kindness and sacrifices of mothers around the country should be recognized. So, she devoted herself to campaigning for a national holiday.

The first official Mother’s Day service was held on May 10, 1908, in Andrews Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. The church, built in 1873, is now known as the International Mother’s Day Shrine mothersdayshrine.com.

Anna kept up her efforts for an official holiday. John Wanamaker of Wanamaker’s department store in Philly helped her out. In 1914, Mother’s Day got an OK from the U.S. Congress and President Woodrow Wilson.

Anna Jarvis was definitely inspired by her mother. Bet she’d appreciate America’s Favorite Mom contest presented by Teleflora. “Most Inspiring Mom” is the theme for the March online contest and the winner will receive $5,000. Remember, there are many ways to win cash and prizes, as well as chances to appear on NBC-TV.

Visit americasfavoritemom.com and nominate an inspiring Mom!

Jacqueline - Editor

March 13, 2008

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