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Survival of the Fittest Automaton
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Survival of the Fittest Automaton
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Survival of the Fittest Automaton

Artifact SeriesObama Administration Collection 2009-2017
Artifact ID2018.1.22
Object Type Automaton
Date 2009
Medium plastic, metal, adhesive, stain, rubber, paint
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 12 1/4 in x W 15 in x D 7 1/2 in (31.1 cm x 38.1 cm x 19.1 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionAn animatronic model of a dodo bird sitting on a wooden and bronze base. The bird's legs are made from metal gears and rubber tires. The base is decorated with artificial rocks, fallen trees, and shrubs, and each end has an etched image of the scientist Charles Darwin holding a DNA strand in front of a rising sun. There is a plaque on the front, engraved with the title “Survival of the Fittest.” When activated with the button on the front, a song about "Charlie Darwin" plays to the tune of "Davey Crockett." The bird rises on its hind limbs, its eyes light up, and the top of its head lifts to reveal binoculars that lower in front of its eyes. Finally, a flap on its back lifts, revealing a propeller that spins. There is an A/C adapter connection on the bottom of the piece that charges an internal battery.
Inscriptions and MarkingsText of plaque on obverse: Sam Zell 2009 Survival of the Fittest 98-675 Engraved on reverse of the piece: SALTATOR SEPULCRI
Historical NoteThe dodo bird and its message were produced by the businessman Sam Zell in 2009. Each year, he produces a series of automatons to give to friends and associates.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThis item is part of materials acquired by the White House support staff during the Obama administration and maintained by the Executive Office of the President (White House Office of Records Management) until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesObama Administration Collection 2009-2017 (National Archives Identifier 66540607)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Not on view