“What’s Cooking, Uncle Sam?”

The Government’s Effect on the American Diet

Food. We love it, fear it, and obsess about it.
We demand that our Government ensure that it is safe, cheap, and abundant. In response, the Government has been a factor in the production, regulation, research, innovation, and economics of our food supply. It has also attempted, with varying success, to change the eating habits of Americans. “What’s Cooking, Uncle Sam?”explores these efforts through over 100 eclectic records spanning the Revolutionary War to the late 1900s.

From the farm to the dinner table, discover the records of the National Archives that trace the Government’s effect on what Americans eat. 

“What's Cooking, Uncle Sam?”is made possible in part by the Foundation for the National Archives with support from Mars, Incorporated and Mars Food.

Specifications and Requirements
Size:  Approximately 3,000 square feet
Rental Fee:   $75,000 for 3 months (includes shipping and installation)
Shipping:  Included in the fee

• The highest environmental and security standards, including 24-hour guards (Please see http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/borrowing-materials.html for additional information)
• Insurance for all loan items under an all-risk, wall-to-wall fine arts policy

Additional Information

• “What’s Cooking Uncle Sam?” traveling exhibit brochure
• “What’s Cooking Uncle Sam?” exhibit web site

Contact Us:

Christina Rudy Smith, Director of Exhibits: Chris.Smith@nara.gov, (202) 357-5264
Alice Kamps, Curator: Alice.Kamps@nara.gov, (202) 357-5484
Karen Hibbitt, Registrar: Karen.Hibbitt@nara.gov, (202)-357-5318