The Surprising History of Mother’s Day — and What Its Founder Wanted Us to Remember

Why do we celebrate Mother’s Day? The answer starts with two remarkable American women: Ann Jarvis, a mother who worked to improve health and sanitation in poor Appalachian communities, and her daughter Anna Jarvis, who never had children of her own but helped create one of America’s most recognized holidays.

In this SmartHER News episode originally recorded in 2025, Jenna shares the little-known history of Mother’s Day, from Ann Jarvis’ “Mother Friendship Days” during the Civil War — an effort to help reunite politically divided families — to Anna Jarvis’ national campaign to honor mothers and their role in American life.

In 1914, Congress approved Mother’s Day and President Woodrow Wilson signed it into law, encouraging Americans to display the U.S. flag in honor of mothers. Anna Jarvis also favored carnations, her mother’s favorite flower, as a symbol of the day.

But the story takes a surprising turn: as Mother’s Day quickly became commercialized, Anna Jarvis fought against the holiday she helped create and even pushed to have it rescinded.

Jenna also reflects on modern motherhood, entrepreneurship, flexibility, faith and the grace parents often need — especially during a busy season of life.

Whether you’re celebrating your mom, remembering your mom, hoping to become a mom, or honoring the women who have shaped your life, this story offers a meaningful look at the origins of Mother’s Day and what the holiday was originally meant to represent.

Chapters:
00:00 Why Mother’s Day Exists
01:06 Civil War-Era Origins
02:12 Anna Jarvis Makes It Official
03:13 Flags and Carnations
03:52 Commercialization Backlash
04:54 Anna Jarvis’ Final Years
05:23 What Mother’s Day Should Mean
05:50 Motherhood and Entrepreneurship
07:28 Flexibility, Not Perfection
09:31 A Nap and Call Your Mom
10:44 Closing Wishes and Unity