Washington Establishes Wilkeson Sandstone as Official State Rock

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The Washington state Senate has voted unanimously to designate Wilkeson sandstone as the official state rock. The move comes after the town of Wilkeson, which provided the sandstone used in state buildings like the Legislative Building in the 1920s, realized they had never been reimbursed for their work. Instead of paying the $5 million bill, the state has agreed to officially recognize the Wilkeson sandstone as a symbol of the state.

Why it matters

The designation of Wilkeson sandstone as the official state rock resolves a long-standing dispute between the state and the town of Wilkeson over unpaid fees for the sandstone used in historic state buildings. It also recognizes the important role the town played in providing a key construction material for the state's infrastructure.

The details

In 2018, officials from the town of Wilkeson approached the state legislature, asking the State Treasurer to confirm if any payment had been sent since the 1920s for the sandstone used in state buildings. When the state could not provide proof of payment, Wilkeson officials jokingly threatened to "repossess" the sandstone. The state legislature then worked out a compromise to designate Wilkeson sandstone as an official state symbol, rather than pay the $5 million bill.

• The state Senate voted unanimously to approve the measure on Monday, February 16, 2026.
• The bill now heads to the House for further discussion.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The bill now heads to the Washington state House of Representatives for further discussion and approval.