Susan Hendrickson

American archaeologist and paleontologist

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July 20, 2026

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Susan Hendrickson is an American marine archaeologist and paleontologist credited with discovering "Sue," one of the most complete and well-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever found. The fossil, dating back approximately 67 million years, measures 12.8 meters (42 feet) long and was unearthed in 1990 on the Cheyenne River Sioux reservation in South Dakota.12

The discovery of "Sue" led to a lengthy legal battle over its ownership, eventually resulting in its sale at auction to Chicago's Field Museum of Natural History for over $8 million. The Field Museum has had "Sue" on permanent display since 2000.1

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Sue
…American marine archaeologist and paleontologist Susan Hendrickson, the scientist for whom the specimen is named, as she searched the property with American paleontologist Peter Larson.
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…American marine archaeologist and paleontologist Susan Hendrickson, the scientist for whom the specimen is named, as she searched the property with American paleontologist Peter Larson.
Read More