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National Smith Day

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Where is National Smith Day celebrated?  

National Smith Day is celebrated all over the United States. However, the most popular celebrations are in Springfield, Illinois, and Washington DC.

Who is National Smith Day celebrated by?

National Smith Day is celebrated by people of all ages. However, the holiday is most popular with school-aged children and young adults.

When did National Smith Day first start?

National Smith Day was first celebrated in 1994 in the United States.

Who started National Smith Day?

The day was started in 1994 by Adrienne Sioux Koopersmith to honor Captain John Smith.

January 6 is the time to reconnect with the community and honor the historic figures.

History And Timeline

Now let's learn the history of the greatest Smith of all time and the official recognition.

1580

Birth Of First Smith

Captain John Smith, an English soldier explorer, was born on January 6, 1580, is the best known Smith in history and among the first settlers of colonial Virginia.

1608-1609

Leader Of Virginia

In the 17th century, he played an important role in establishing Jamestown, Virginia, the first permanent English settlement in native America. Later, he also served as a leader of the Virginia Colony from September 1608 to August 1609.

1864

First Monument

In 1864, John Smith Monument was built in New Hampshire to mark the 250th birthday of Smith.

1907

Honoring Jamestown Settlement

During April 26 and December 1, 1907, two of three stamps of the Jamestown Exposition Issue were released in honor of the Jamestown settlement.

1978

Fictional Appearance

First fictional character of John Smith was published in the 1978 novel Chesapeake by James A. Michener.

Traditions And Customs

Smith Day is celebrated by people of all ages, so there are no specific traditions. However, many people observe this day by visiting storytelling National Smith Museums in Springfield, Illinois, and Washington DC. Additionally, many schools hold special events in honor of the greatest Smiths in the history of the U.S. 

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Smith Day

This is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with your community. Why? Because January 6 celebrates the importance of community engagement and volunteerism. There are many ways to have fun and get involved in your community. Organize or attend fun events, storytelling games, and historical plays to know the greatest Smiths of history of America. 

Use this to enjoy spending time with family and friends; invite them for lunch or a post-lunch snack party.

Read about the popular Smiths in the world like Larry Smith (founder of Smith Magazine, known as the new age of storytelling), Will Smith (famous actor and rapper), Chad Smith (American musician), and many more you know.

Surprise Smith's of your life, send them gifts, it can be anything from flowers and jewelry to money or even just spending time with someone you love.

Facts And Stats

The reason for choosing January 6 as a national day in honor of smiths is because it's the birthday of John Smith.

In 1995, the Disney film 'Pocahontas' was the first animated film with John Smith as one of the main characters. So, it's the best day to teach children about the first settlers of America.

Smith Day in the U.S. has been around for over 50 years, but it wasn't until 1994 it became an official federal holiday.

Smith Day also honors the people with the surname 'Smith' and related professions like a goldsmith.

The day also celebrates the birthday of Jedediah Strong Smith, the first American to reach California by land and begin Oregon trails.

FAQs About National Smith Day

What is Smith Day?

Smith Day is celebrated to honor captain John Smith and encourages people to connect with the community.

What are some requirements in order to celebrate National Smith Day?

Smith Day is a great opportunity to appreciate community and family. There are no specific requirements in order to participate, but it's encouraged that you connect with your friends and neighbors. Smith Day is all about celebrating the life of one of our most important historical figures.

Who encouraged the celebration of National Smith Day?

The day of celebration if encouraged by Adrienne Sioux Koopersmith in 1994. 

Hashtags To Use On Social Media

#NationalSmithDay

When Is This Day Celebrated

Date Day
January 06, 2020 Monday
January 06, 2021 Wednesday
January 06, 2022 Thursday
January 06, 2023 Friday
January 06, 2024 Saturday

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