A 50‑ton prehistoric boulder was uncovered this week during construction activities at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, prompting airport officials to launch a public contest to select a name for the stone.
The massive rock, estimated at fifty tons, emerged from the earth as crews prepared the site for ongoing upgrades. Its size and age mark it as a notable geological find within the airport’s grounds, a reminder of the region’s ancient landscape before modern development.
Airport authorities announced a naming competition that invites community members to propose a title for the boulder. The contest is intended to give the artifact an identity and involve residents in the story of the discovery. Details on submission methods and deadlines have been posted at the airport’s information desk and on its website.
The find occurred amid a broader phase of construction aimed at improving facilities and capacity at O’Hare. When the boulder was revealed, engineers coordinated with preservation specialists to document the stone before determining its final placement. Officials emphasized that the rock will be retained on site as a permanent feature, allowing travelers and staff to see the ancient piece of the region’s natural history. The naming contest adds a community‑focused element to the project, turning an unexpected geological surprise into a shared symbol for the city.