LOCAL HISTORY Father's Day shopping in Paris: A Journey Through Time

One sure sign that the long, warm days of summer are fast approaching is the appearance of ads to “remember Dad” on the third Sunday in June. Father’s Day is not only a day to cherish one’s father; you are also encouraged to get dad a special gift This might be a new barbecue, fishing gear, power tools, a big screen television, or the old favourite - a new tie

The idea of Father’s Day first came to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. She and her siblings were raised solely by their father, and every Mother’s Day Sonora lamented the lack of a day to celebrate fathers. The first Father’s Day was held in Spokane on June 19, 1910 Informally acknowledged by President Calvin Coolidge in 1924, Father’s Day was not officially proclaimed in the United States until 1966, although not as a statutory holiday. Since the 1920s, Canadians have also marked Father’s Day, but here too it has not received any official holiday status. Many other countries do likewise, although a few European countries align the celebration with the March religious feast of St. Joseph, the patron saint of fatherhood.

In Paris, this celebration has a rich history intertwined with the memories of a bygone era. As we delve into the passing of time, we discover a captivating tale of downtown Paris, where numerous men's wear shops flourished, catering to the Father’s Day needs of our community and beyond Stepping back in time we explore the captivating world of classic Paris stores like the Haberdashery of Blackhurst and McTavish, Jack Bradley’s Men's Wear, Al Toms Shoes and of course Harry Wise Men's Wear

In the year 1919, on a memorable August day, Harry Wise Men's Wear first came into existence, marking the inception of an iconic establishment in Paris. Harry Wise, a skilled tailor from Poland, arrived in Paris in 1919 and acquired a store at 113 Grand River St. N. Originally a cleaning and pressing store, it underwent a transformation into a dedicated men's wear boutique. With his expertise as a tailor, Harry Wise embarked on a journey to serve the fashionconscious men of Paris and area.

During the early 20th century, men's fashion exuded elegance, sophistication, and attention to detail. Regardless of social standing, every gentleman adorned himself with a hat, and his ensemble was embellished with neckties, belts, walking sticks, cufflinks, and handkerchiefs.

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