1981.141; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Enterprise Space Shuttle Model
Artifact ID1981.141
Object Type
Model
Date
ca. 1976
Medium
plastic, paint
DimensionsOverall H 14 in x W 23 in (35.6 cm x 58.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionA model of a grey and silver space shuttle is attached to a square black base. A small figure of a man is affixed to the base, near the tail of the shuttle.Historical NoteDr. James C. Fletcher, the 4th and 7th administrator of NASA, personally presented this model of the Enterprise to President Gerald R. Ford on September 7, 1976, during a national debate over the naming of the space shuttle. While the shuttle was originally going to be named Constitution, Star Trek fans wrote in the masses to Ford, pleading with him to reconsider naming the shuttle Enterprise. During Ford’s meeting with Fletcher, they agreed to name the shuttle Enterprise.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Ford during his term in office. It was presented to Ford and was maintained at the Executive Office of the President until its transfer to the National Archives in 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
Credit LineGift of Honorable James C. Fletcher
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPublic Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status
Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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