WHEN IT MATTERS MOST
Celebrate America’s 250th with Kayem
Discover the untold story of the hot dog that helped shape a nation.
Hot Dogs of History
with Uncle Frank
In celebration of America’s 250th, we’re retelling history through iconic Revolutionary-era artwork showing the pivotal role that hot dogs played in the birth of a nation. From Uncle Frank — America’s first hot dog pioneer — to Paul Revere’s midnight ride, follow along this summer on social media and learn the true history of the frank that fueled our fight for freedom.
A Partnership
of Historic Proportions
Illustration based on Gilbert Stuart’s portrait of George Washington. See the real work on view in newly reopened Art of the Americas galleries at MFA Boston starting June 19.
When it Mattered Most features a rich tapestry of historic figures, pivotal moments, and the hot dogs that helped shape a nation. Never before seen by the public, Kayem recently unearthed these totally real, definitely not fake works that reveal the savory hero of the era, and provide proof that no revolution runs on an empty stomach. Kayem is proud to share 12 works that highlight the important role that hot dogs played in the moments that mattered, including 3 inspired by works from the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The 3 real works of art will be on view in the MFA’s reimagined 18th-century Art of the Americas galleries starting June 19, 2026.
One Beefy Gallery
MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS
BOSTON, MA
June 24 - July 24, 2026
Follow the Art
This summer, experience select works from When it Mattered Most, as they pop-up across iconic locations in New England. Follow along on social media for the next locations, including:
Omni Boston Hotel at Seaport (June 15-June 21)
Cisco Brewers - Boston Seaport (June 22 - June 24)
Fenway Park, Gate A (June 25 - June 26)
Hadlock Field, Portland Seadogs (June 30 - July 2)
Polar Park, WooSox (July 7 - July 9)
American Independence Museum (July 11 - July 19)
Narragansett Brewing Taproom (July 15 - July 19)
Patriots Training Camp (July 27 - July 28)
LIMITED TIME ONLY
We’re adding a new flavor to our already mouthwatering lineup. Introducing, Cannon Fire: smoky, savory, and 250 years in the making. Pick up this limited edition for a truly revolutionary hot dog experience.
Cannon Fire
AVAILABLE AT
See the Collection
Follow us on social for the latest artwork releases, and browse what’s live right now in the gallery below.
"Here's to life, liberty, and a hot dog in each hand" - Thomas Jefferson
A certain river crossing was motivated by more than just freedom.
“Independence is throwing down two of these bad boys at 11am.” -Abigail Adams
President, Leader, and often the CGO ("Chief Glizzy Officer")
Inventor of bifocals, ingestor of hot dogs.
"The relish is coming!"
Not once have hot dogs been thrown into the Harbor. Just sayin'.
There when it mattered most.
Kayem Creations
Hot dog cannons? Mustard quills? We’ve got them. Shop our totally real, definitely not fake, emporium of hot dog artifacts and see what American innovation can accomplish.
