Object Details
- Description (Brief)
- Lapel pin in the shape of Uncle Sam’s top hat. The red and white striped portion of the hat says “United,” and the blue band says “We Stand” in white.
- James Montgomery Flagg popularized the image of Uncle Sam during World War I with his famous “I Want You For U.S. Army” poster.
- Much like the use of military insignia to identify its wearer (by association with an organization) and his/her achievements, these pins and buttons were meant to be worn by Americans on the home front during World War I to show their membership in an organization and/or their contribution to a particular war effort, such as the United War Work Campaign. The pins and buttons displayed the wearer’s patriotism and generosity and undoubtedly also served to prompt others to become similarly involved in the various war efforts.
- SOURCE:
- “The Most Famous Poster,” American Treasures of the Library of Congress, loc.gov/exhibits/treasures/trm015.html.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
- maker
- George Borgfeldt & Company
- date made
- 1917-1918
- Physical Description
- cellulose nitrate (overall material)
- Measurements
- overall: 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm; 9/16 in x 9/16 in
- overall: 5/16 in x 5/8 in x 1/8 in; .79375 cm x 1.5875 cm x .3175 cm
- Object Name
- button
