Today is National Handwriting Day. Established by Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association in 1977, this day is a chance revisit the lost art of writing with a pen on paper instead of typing on a keyboard. In today’s modern world of texting, Facebook, Twitter, and email many are straying from writing and leaning toward the cyber world of communication. Pen and paper manufacturers fear their industry will shrink as writing is becoming a thing of the past. In this spirit, National Handwriting Day was born so we could go back and revisit the intimacy and joy of handwritten notes, letters, and cards.
Why was January 23rd chosen?
It was chosen because January 23rd is believed to be the day John Hancock was born. This is fitting since John Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence. Who has not heard John Hancock as a synonym for signature as in “Put your John Hancock here.”? Now, I say January 23rd is believed to be the date of John Hancock’s birth because sources also say he was born on January 12th. All agree on the year of 1737 and the place Braintree, Massachusetts.
Is National Handwriting Day official?
To officially establish a “National” day you need an act of congress. Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association has not obtained an act of congress nor do they state they did. However, this does not take away from the spirit of the day.
Ways to celebrate National Handwriting Day?
Write a letter to a friend or relative.
Write a letter to a soldier serving overseas.
Do a study on John Hancock.
Have your kids practice writing their name.
Hand write everything today!
Take the words “National Handwriting Day” and write down all the words you can make from it.
Gather up all your pens, pencils, markers, crayons, and colored pencils and practice writing your favorite quote, words, or names.
Do something extra special for copywork like using a quote of John Hancock.