The earliest known reference to Father Thames is in a poem by the 12th-century poet John of Salisbury. In this poem, Father Thames is described as a "mighty river" that "flows through the heart of England." Other early references to Father Thames can be found in the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, William Shakespeare, and Edmund Spenser.
In the 18th century, Father Thames became a popular subject for artists. Paintings, engravings, and sculptures of Father Thames were often used to decorate public buildings and gardens. In the 19th century, Father Thames was also featured in popular literature, including the works of Charles Dickens and Jerome K. Jerome.
Today, Father Thames remains a popular symbol of the River Thames. He is often used in advertising and marketing campaigns, and he is also a popular subject for art and literature.