Robert Indiana kept a series of illustrated journals during the late 1950s and 1960s, in which he discusses the development of his work as well as his daily life on Coenties Slip.

Robert Indiana's journal entry for July 7, 1961, consists of a sketch of the painting Made in USA, with notes added at a later of date giving its title, and the names Rosa and Aaron Esman and Mrs. and Mrs. Gene Schwartz, with the date 1969. The latter couple purchased the painting and later donated it to The Israel Museum.