Uncle Sam
Permanent Collection
Uncle Sam Gallery
The man in Life and Legend
Samuel “Uncle Sam” Wilson (1766-1854) is undoubtedly Troy’s most famous son. Arriving in Troy in the late 18th century and participating in the community’s early growth and success, he was also a witness to the expansion of our nation and the development of our national identity. This colorful exhibit tells the story of how Troy became “The Home of Uncle Sam” by an Act of Congress in 1961 while taking a look at some of the many evolving images of Uncle Sam, our national symbol.
Samuel Wilson’s entrepreneurial spirit is clear as is his involvement in the everyday life of early Troy. Using documents, artifacts and archeological evidence from his Congress Street home location, the exhibit brings “Uncle Sam” Wilson, The Man, to life. Visitors will be able to see how the story of the man and the legend evolved and learn how this real person and national icon continue to impact us today.