In 1929, Class President C. Brigham Allen appointed representatives from the classes of 1930, 1931, and 1932 to the first MIT Ring Committee.  While designing the original Standard Technology Ring, the Committee was inspired by Lester Gardner, Class of 1897.   He formally proposed the Institute mascot at the Technology Club in New York:

"We first thought of the kangaroo which, like Tech, goes forward  by leaps and bounds.  Then we considered the elephant.  He is wise, patient, strong, hard working, and like all those who graduate from Tech, has a good tough hide.  But neither of these were American animals.  We turned to Mr. Hornaday's book on the animals of North America and instantly chose the beaver.  The beaver not only typifies the Tech, but his habits are peculiarly our own.  The beaver is noted for his engineering and mechanical skills and habits of industry.  His habits are nocturnal.  He does his best work in the dark."

Thus, the MIT Brass Rat was born.  Each ring is adorned with “MIT” and the class year on opposing shanks as well as a beaver on its bezel.  Every class since has redesigned the ring and added its own distinctiveness.