German and Austrian immigrants brought sausages to the U.S. The term Vienna Sausage refers to link sausages. The term dates back to about 1903 but the packing of sausages in tins started in the late 1890's. Preserved meats were popular due to the lack of refrigeration at that time.
The little sausages were most popular in the 1940's and throughout the World War II years where they were sold in just about every base store.
Early producers of the canned sausages included Libby, Hormel, Armour and Swift.
The sausages are still produced today and come in a variety of meats and some with sauces.