In a landmark decision that blends geology with civic education, Illinois has officially designated Dolostone as its state rock. Governor JB Pritzker, alongside legislators, students, and educators, formalized this designation at the Morton Arboretum, marking a significant step in recognizing the state’s geological foundation and fostering youth engagement in state governance. House Bill 4261, the legislation that led to this designation, was sparked by the initiative of elementary school students from Pleasantdale Middle School in Burr Ridge and Maplebrook Elementary School in Naperville. These young, budding civic leaders discovered Illinois’s lack of a state rock and took it upon themselves to rectify this. They organized a statewide student vote to select a representative rock, and Dolostone emerged as the clear choice.
Dolostone, often referred to as dolomite rock, is a type of sedimentary rock closely related to limestone. It is characterized by its high content of the mineral dolomite, which is rich in magnesium carbonate. Geologically significant, Dolostone constitutes the majority of Illinois’s bedrock. This foundational presence underlies the state’s diverse natural landscapes, providing a sturdy base for its terrains and ecosystems. The name “Dolostone” itself originates from the Dolomite Alps in northeastern Italy, where this rock type was first scientifically described and recognized for its unique mineral composition.
Illinois’s selection of Dolostone as the state rock is not only a tribute to its geological importance but also a recognition of its historical and economic significance. Dolostone has been a crucial natural resource for the state, utilized extensively in construction, agriculture, and various industrial processes. Its durability and widespread availability have made it a cornerstone material in Illinois’s development.
The journey to officially recognize Dolostone was as impactful as the designation itself. The students’ initiative in proposing and campaigning for a state rock served as a powerful lesson in civic engagement and the democratic process. From creating ballots to organizing a statewide vote, these students actively participated in shaping state symbols, demonstrating to their peers and the wider community the power of youth voices in governance.
Governor Pritzker lauded the students’ efforts, stating, “Seeing young people use their voices and the democratic process to make change in our state is truly inspiring… They could not have picked a better rock to represent the strength and stability of Illinois.” State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) emphasized the educational value of this process: “Developing this legislation has been a fantastic learning experience for students across our state, and this is an opportunity to show the next generation that they are capable of great things.” State Representative Yang Rohr (D-Naperville) further highlighted the long-term impact, noting, “With today’s bill signing, we’re not only establishing an official state rock with a long history of economic and geological significance to Illinois, we’re building the foundation for a new generation of lifelong learners who are civically engaged.”
Dolostone now joins the esteemed list of Illinois state symbols, including the Northern Red Cardinal (state bird), the violet (state flower), the white oak (state tree), and the bluegill (state fish). This designation enriches the state’s symbolic representation, adding a geological dimension to its identity and celebrating both the natural history and the engaged citizenry of Illinois. The story of Dolostone becoming the state rock is a testament to the impact of student initiative and the enduring importance of geology in shaping our world.
