TOURISM bosses are considering building a permanent tribute to America's Uncle Sam after it was revealed his family came from Greenock.
The American national icon is known to have been based on Samuel Wilson, a butcher who supplied meat to the US army during the 1800s.
But genealogists have traced Samuel's family back to three brothers who emigrated from Greenock for a new life in America in the 1600's.
Now council bosses are hoping the historical revelation will give a boost to tourism the area.
Robert Jackson, Leader of Inverclyde Council, said: "Everyone knows something about Uncle Sam although not everyone may be aware he was a real person and not simply an urban myth.
"Next time there is a reference to Uncle Sam we can applaud his sense of adventure and feel a sense of satisfaction that he has links with our area." Provost David Roach added: "Greenock very proud to have a shared history with such a huge American icon."
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