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Uncle Sam Costume, 1956

Object Details

Description
By the mid-19th century Uncle Sam became the most recognizable personification of the U.S. government. Rather than an authority figure, he most often was portrayed with affection and used as an emblem of national kinship to instill patriotism. This costume was worn by Wilburt E. Leppien. Leppien first appeared as Uncle Sam in 1956 and took part in numerous ceremonies and parades across the country, including five presidential inaugurations.
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Date made
1984
1956-05-25
Credit Line
Marcella M. Leppien
Physical Description
synthetic fibers (overall material)
red; white; blue (overall color)
Measurements
overall jacket: 44 in x 22 in; 111.76 cm x 55.88 cm
Object Name
Costume
Object Type
costume
Costume

Featured In

  • Independence Day: July 4th
  • Uncle Sam: The Man and the Meme
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