What’s Cookin’ Uncle Sam?
Posted by ryan / Tuesday, March 22nd, 2011
A new exhibit is opening June 10 at the O’Brien Gallery of the National Archives. It explores the history of our nation’s ongoing obsession with food. The Federal Government has made a concerted effort to control what Americans eat since the Revolutionary War. These programs have led to unexpected consequences, dismal failures, and life-saving successes.
The collected records and artifacts show how the preferences of the populous have been influenced to evolve into what we believe about nutrition today. Visitors can examine a time capsule of letters, diaries, photos, maps, petitions, patents, and films that explore the subject.
There are four categories that cover the broad themes representing the chronological order of food production.
Farm- The Dept. of Agriculture has had a profound effect on the way farmers do things. They continue to act as the primary seed distributor, price controller, and hybrid crop researcher.
Factory- The safety of the food supply has always been an issue. The Food & Drug Administration was formed in 1906 to regulate and ensure quality, but some problems persist.
Kitchen- After each scientific discovery, the government has tried to educate citizens through the media. See and hear vintage advertisements.
Table- Attempts to change the way Americans eat have failed for the most part, but most soldiers and school children are served what the government has mandated. White House State Dinners are explored in detail as well. Recipe books are available in the Gift Shop.
This “tasteful” exhibit is free and open to the public. Open until Jan. 3, 2012. Call (202)-357-5300 for more information.
-Ryan Robertson
(image: Archives)
Tags: Factory, farm, Food Exhibit, June, kitchen, National Archives, Table