GRAFTON, W.Va. — Six state park restaurants in West Virginia will host Mother’s Day lunches and buffets on May 10, offering families across the state a scenic and memorable way to celebrate.
Parks offering a special lunch include 
Ann Jarvis organized “Mothers’ Day Work Clubs” in the mid-1800s to address sanitation issues and reduce infant mortality. During and after the Civil War, she also promoted efforts to bring together families divided by the conflict.
Following her mother’s death in 1905, Jarvis began a campaign to establish a day dedicated to honoring mothers. The 1908 service in Grafton drew national attention and is widely regarded as the first formal observance of Mother’s Day. Jarvis also arranged for a parallel gathering in Philadelphia, expanding awareness of the effort.
The movement gained support from churches, civic groups, and public officials. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day, formally establishing it as a national holiday.
Jarvis intended the observance to be a personal tribute, encouraging handwritten letters and quiet reflection. She selected the white carnation as a symbol of a mother’s love.
In later years, however, Jarvis publicly criticized the growing commercialization of the holiday, arguing it had departed from its original purpose.
Today, Grafton continues to recognize its role in the holiday’s history, with the church where the first service was held designated as a landmark tied to the founding of Mother’s Day.
In addition to its historical significance, Grafton is located near Tygart Lake State Park, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking. The park’s scenic reservoir and rolling hills complement the town’s heritage, drawing visitors interested in both outdoor recreation and the birthplace of Mother’s Day.