The term "Uncle Sam" as an American reference began during the War of 1812 and actually started with a meat packer, Samuel Wilson. He stamped his barrels with "U.S." and the soldiers started to reference him as "Uncle Sam." A news story gave the nickname wider appeal, and the term was soon aligned with the federal government. But it was not until the 1860s that we got the present day graphic. Uncle Sam Standing, Small is made of carved wood replica of this historic American emblem with a weathered paint finish to give it a vintage feel.